The St George and Sutherland Shire regions are experiencing a surge in technology employment, with job postings in the sector up 30% compared to the same period last year. The growth is being driven by companies seeking talent outside traditional CBD locations and the rise of remote-friendly work arrangements.

Data from local recruitment firms shows particularly strong demand for software developers, data analysts, and IT support specialists. Miranda and Kogarah have emerged as hotspots, with several technology companies establishing offices in the area.

Why Southern Sydney?

Several factors are contributing to the tech boom in southern Sydney:

• Lower commercial rents: Office space in Miranda costs approximately 40% less than equivalent CBD locations
• Skilled local workforce: Proximity to universities including UNSW and UTS
• Improved transport links: New metro connections have reduced commute times
• Quality of life: Beach access and green spaces appeal to tech workers

“We moved our entire development team to Cronulla last year,” said James Patterson, CTO of logistics software company FreightFlow. “Our developers love being able to surf before work. Productivity has actually gone up.”

Local Success Stories

Several local tech companies have expanded their operations in recent months:

DataSphere Solutions (Miranda) added 15 new positions in Q3 2024, focusing on machine learning engineers and data scientists.

CloudNine IT (Kogarah) opened a new training facility to develop local talent, offering certifications in cloud computing and cybersecurity.

GreenTech Innovations (Sutherland) is developing environmental monitoring software and has doubled its workforce since relocating from Parramatta.

Skills in Demand

Local recruiters report the highest demand for:

1. Full-stack developers (particularly React and Node.js)
2. Data analysts with Python experience
3. Cloud infrastructure specialists (AWS and Azure)
4. Cybersecurity professionals
5. AI and machine learning engineers

“We’re seeing salaries for these roles that are competitive with CBD positions,” said Sarah Mitchell from Southern Sydney Recruitment. “Companies are willing to pay for talent, especially if it means employees will stick around longer.”

Training Opportunities

For residents looking to transition into tech careers, several local options are available:

• TAFE NSW Sutherland offers certificates in web development and IT support
• Kogarah Library runs free coding workshops for beginners
• Miranda Business Centre hosts monthly tech meetups and networking events

The NSW government’s digital skills training voucher program is also available to St George and Sutherland residents, providing up to $3,000 toward accredited technology courses.

Looking Ahead

Industry analysts expect the growth to continue, particularly as more companies embrace hybrid work models. The upcoming redevelopment of Hurstville Plaza will include dedicated co-working spaces targeting tech startups and freelancers.

“Southern Sydney has everything a tech company needs,” Patterson concludes. “Great talent, good infrastructure, and a lifestyle that helps attract and retain employees. We’re not going back to the CBD.”