The Hiring Surge is Real

The latest Recruitment Experiences and Outlook Survey from Jobs and Skills Australia reveals a notable surge in hiring activity for February 2025. The national recruitment rate has reached 49%, marking a significant rebound from January’s low and returning to levels seen just one year ago.

Easier Hiring Conditions

The trend is clear: Hiring is becoming easier. Employers are facing fewer challenges when recruiting, with recruitment difficulty dropping to its lowest point since February 2021. The number of job vacancies remaining unfilled for over a month continues to decline, suggesting a more efficient recruitment process overall.

Fewer Vacancies, Steady Outlook

Despite the uptick in recruitment, fewer employers are planning to expand their teams in the next quarter. Only 20% of employers expect to hire in the coming months, down from 26% last year. While job vacancies are being filled more quickly, a cautious growth outlook remains prevalent.

Recruitment’s New Normal

Staff turnover continues to be the dominant driver behind recruitment, accounting for 60% of hires. However, there’s also an element of growth, with 28% of employers recruiting for new roles. With hiring becoming easier and fewer vacancies left open, the landscape is shifting toward a more dynamic and responsive labor market.

Source: Jobs and Skills Australia