The Evolution of Australia’s Job Market in 2025
Posted on February 2025 By Stopgap Australia
As we progress through 2025, Australia's employment landscape continues to transform, influenced by significant events such as the Great Resignation, a wave of redundancies in 2024, and the emerging trend of Quiet Hiring. Understanding these developments is crucial for both employers and professionals in the marketing and creative sectors.
From Job-Hopping to Stability: How the Workforce is Shifting
Post-COVID, the Great Resignation made waves globally, with millions of employees reassessing their careers, work-life balance, and overall job satisfaction. In Australia, there was an undeniable shift in job mobility, with record-high resignation rates in 2022 and 2023. By 2024, economic uncertainties led to widespread redundancies across various sectors, prompting companies to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.
Now, in 2025, the trend has evolved into what some call the "Big Stay." Economic fluctuations, increased job competition, and proactive retention strategies from employers mean that many professionals are prioritising stability and long-term career growth over constant job-hopping.
Enter Quiet Hiring: The New Talent Strategy
With hiring challenges still on the table, organisations have pivoted towards a more strategic approach: Quiet Hiring. Instead of relying solely on external recruitment, companies are focusing on internal mobility, upskilling, and project-based roles to fill talent gaps. This approach benefits both businesses and employees, ensuring professional growth without constant turnover.
Here’s what Quiet Hiring looks like in practice:
Internal Promotions & Role Expansions: Businesses are investing in their existing teams, offering training and leadership opportunities.
Project-Based Hiring: Contractors, freelancers, and short-term specialists are being brought in for high-priority initiatives.
Upskilling & Reskilling: Companies are prioritising professional development to future-proof their teams.
What This Means for Employers and Professionals
For employers, the current landscape presents an opportunity to refine talent strategies. If you’re looking to build a strong, engaged team in 2025, here’s what to focus on:
Enhance Your Employer Brand: Competitive salaries, career development opportunities, and flexible work arrangements remain key in attracting and retaining top talent.
Invest in Your People: Upskilling programs and internal career pathways create an engaged workforce that’s more likely to stay.
Stay Agile: A combination of full-time hires, project-based talent, and internal mobility can help businesses remain flexible and responsive to market changes.
For professionals in marketing, creative, and digital industries, the market remains dynamic. Here’s how you can make the most of these trends:
Be Open to Internal Growth: If you’re looking for career progression, explore opportunities within your current organisation before considering external moves.
Expand Your Skillset: Employers are prioritising adaptable talent. Upskilling in emerging areas like AI, data analytics, and digital marketing can set you apart.
Embrace Flexibility: Whether it’s contracting, freelancing, or hybrid roles, diversifying your experience can open new doors.
Final Thoughts
The job market may be shifting, but opportunities abound for both employers and job seekers who are willing to adapt. At Stopgap, we’re at the forefront of these changes, helping businesses build future-proof teams and professionals find roles where they can thrive. If you’re looking for guidance on navigating Australia’s evolving job landscape, let’s chat.
Need help finding top talent or your next opportunity? Get in touch today!
