Australia is moving towards another skills shortage with some of the country's major infrastructure projects already being affected, according to findings in the Clarius Skills Index issued today.

Demand exceeded supply in a number of employment categories during the March quarter, with metalworkers the most sought after.

The index, published quarterly by recruitment agency the Clarius Group, recorded an upswing in demand for skilled labour in 15 of the 20 occupations measured.

Eight occupations showed demand exceeding available labour.

They included building, engineering and computer professionals, as well as chefs and associate professionals in the building and engineering sector.

At the trades level, demand for skilled labour in the metal, automotive, wood and hairdressing sectors had also outstripped supply for the quarter.

All eight categories scored above 100 in the index, with a score of 100 indicating equal tension between labour and supply.

Anything greater than 100 indicates a skills shortage. The report's findings suggest employers and some of the country's biggest projects face the prospect of severe challenges in the near future because of a lack of available skilled labour.

Clarius Group chief operating officer Kym Quick said the increase in demand during the quarter followed significant jumps for 17 of the 20 categories in the December 2009 quarter.

''While the shortage of talent was a distant memory for many employers last year, we are quickly seeing it re-emerge as one of the most significant issues facing business,'' she said.