Young Aussies See Professional Gaming as a Legitimate Career – But Don’t Know Their Options

Media Release:

A major worldwide study has revealed a growing change in attitudes towards gaming and esports careers among young Aussies – but more guidance is needed on the roles available in the industry.

Research from Logitech G, which surveyed 1,500 Australians across generations, found that 75% of 18-24-year-olds agreed that professional gaming is a legitimate career. However, when quizzed on roles they believe exist as real careers within the esports industry, no position scored above 32% recognition among this cohort.

According to Dan Hall, Senior Product Manager at Logitech G ANZ, this perception gap shows that while professional gaming is maturing as an industry, more work is needed to demonstrate the opportunities available within the sector.

“Gaming has long ceased being just a hobby – it’s a thriving industry, and young Australians are keenly aware of this,” he says. “With such large numbers seeing esports as a legitimate career, it’s clear that its future is bright. However, this enthusiasm needs to translate into concrete progress, and as this research shows, that’s easier said than done. 

“For professional gaming to continue to thrive, more awareness is needed on how the sausage is made – that is, looking beyond the player in the chair, and into the opportunities available within different teams and beyond. There are plenty of ways into the profession, and from talent scouting to virtual gear optimisation, so many interesting jobs too. It’s just about showing where these pathways are.”

Meanwhile, older generations reveal concerns about the level of stability offered by professional gaming as a career, with just over four percent of surveyed Australians over 55 thinking esports offers job security, and only 21% thinking it doesn’t provide long-term financial security. In Hall’s view, these understandable concerns nonetheless show that a paradigm shift is underway in how gaming is perceived.

“The increase in global coverage from esports competitions and global leagues has been marked and impressive,” Hall concludes. “But as our research shows, different generations have varying views of gaming as a career. That is to be expected, but overall, there is growing recognition of competitive gaming as a legitimate and respected profession.

“As audiences grow, aspirations shift, and legitimacy strengthens, esports is now entering its prime in Australia. From collaborating with elite players, teams, and leagues to championing grassroots, amateur, and collegiate programs worldwide, we’ve been instrumental in driving the industry forward. Our commitment remains steadfast – to empower players, gamers, and creators at every level and to foster the growth of esports in a way that is inclusive, accessible, and impactful for future generations.”