Data Analysis Job Market Insights Report: Trends and Statistics [January 2026]
In this guide, we give you an up-to-date snapshot report on the booming data job market. We cover key industry trends, job growth forecasts, and the evolving role of Data Analysts in today’s competitive market.
Data professional salary trends for 2026
Salary ranges for Data Analysts vary by experience level.
- For entry-level roles, full-time salaries typically range from $70,000 to $90,000 AUD and $60,000 to $80,000 NZD.
- Mid-level professionals can expect salaries between $90,000 and $110,000 AUD, or $80,000 and $100,000 NZD, depending on the role.
- Senior-level positions offer compensation from $110,000 to $130,000+ AUD, with New Zealand-based roles ranging from $100,000 to $120,000+ NZD.
Source: Seek.com.au and Seek.co.nz
Data jobs are expected to grow in Australia by 23.2% in the next five years.
Source: Seek.com.au, 2025
70% of APS agencies continue to identify critical data skill shortages.
Source: dataanddigital.gov.au
'Data Specialist' is ranked as one of the fastest growing roles globally.
Source: World Economic Forum
Vesi Togiaso, Pacific Intelligence Analyst
"My Career Services Consultant was probably one of the best parts of my time with Learning People. Mikayla helped to get me the job I have today by helping me step by step to connect with others on LinkedIn. I consider myself quite a shy person and therefore connecting with random people on LinkedIn felt beyond me.
However, Mikayla reassured me that a lot of people connect with others when they're trying to find work. I ended up connecting with a data scientist who works under a consultancy on LinkedIn and she sent me job applications to Health NZ which is where I applied and where I work now. Mikayla also helped with my CV and pushed me to keep connecting with others to build my LinkedIn page as most people look at that when hiring as well."
Start your Data Analyst journey today
Learn how to become a data analyst and develop in-demand skills that help businesses thrive, while unlocking a lucrative career path. You can read our article below on how to become a data professional; even better, you can contact your career consultant for bespoke, one-to-one advice.
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