Key insights:
These regional insights are updated quarterly, if you need help navigating the hiring landscape over the next three months please reach out to our team.
Western Australia’s job market is currently navigating a period of transition, with both public and private sector organisations closely monitoring budget outcomes, internal restructures, and global developments. While some hesitation is present, the broader economic outlook for WA remains encouraging, with 2.25% growth forecast for 2025–26 and a stable unemployment rate of 3.75%. Many employers have started the year with measured optimism, balancing long-term planning with a degree of caution.
Demand continues to be strong in several specialised areas. Roles such as Procurement, Contract Management, HR and Finance professionals remain consistently sought after. In the tech space, demand is growing for Data Engineers, Full Stack Developers, and specialists in Cyber Security and platforms like Dynamics 365 and PowerApps. Technologies that enhance efficiency such as automation, AI, and cloud infrastructure are also seeing sustained interest, signaling a steady push toward operational innovation.
Key industries driving activity in WA include state government, renewable energy, and sectors aligned with mining and resources. While some large organisations are conducting internal reviews and FY26 budget planning, leading to more deliberate hiring, this period of recalibration is also bringing new talent into the market. The result is a dynamic environment characterised by high demand for local, highly skilled professionals, alongside an increased pool of candidates looking to upskill or gain local experience.
Contracting opportunities have moderated as organisations focus on maximising value, managing capital expenditure, and refining workforce strategies. Roles are now more competitive and increasingly tied to long-term strategic impact. Work-from-home flexibility remains a strong drawcard and in great demand, with the standard model in WA leaning toward a hybrid three days in-office and two days remote giving employers a compelling advantage in attracting talent.
Employer sentiment is mixed but thoughtful. Many are carefully pacing projects and approvals while exploring cost efficiencies. Interest in digital transformation, AI, and automation is rising steadily, though implementation timelines vary. Our recent Talent survey provided some fantastic insights into how WA organisations are approaching the year ahead and where key activity is likely to emerge.
Overall, while there is an air of hesitancy, WA’s economy is on solid ground, with population growth and investment continuing to underpin long-term confidence. While the employment market is currently in a phase of adjustment, strong fundamentals, clear areas of demand, and a steady influx of skilled talent suggest potential for renewed momentum in the months ahead particularly as FY26 plans come into focus.
Our experts interact with hiring managers and candidates daily, giving us unique, real-world insights into the latest salary and benefits trends.
Perth is the capital of ‘the West’ and there are plenty of reasons to live and work here. Although we don’t get as much credit as other Australian capitals, being close to the coast and our Mediterranean climate ensures the sun is always shining, which makes getting out of bed and going to work a lot easier! The technology industry, fuelled largely by steady demand and recent appetite from the major mining-resource operators, is also supported by an upturn in tech and innovation, a bandwagon of digital transformation projects, and start-ups and co-working space pop-ups. The lure of ‘Perf’ect Perth is firmly attracting tech talent back from our eastern states cousins.
Recently ranked 14th most liveable city in the world by the Economist Intelligence Unit (who cares for lists anyway!) humble Perth achieved near ‘Perf’ect scores for healthcare, education and infrastructure, ensuring a tip top quality of lifestyle for families and those seeking an option for a slightly slower pace of life. Couple all that with cost of living and housing affordability, it’s no wonder we are the nation’s most down to earth, friendly and relaxed bunch of people.
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