New data shows one in two Australian Gen Z workers plan to take a break in the early stages of their career and only 6% are in their jobs for the long haul.
The data comes from Randstad’s new report The Gen Z Workplace Blueprint: Fast Moving, Future Focused which also reveals a sharp decline in entry-level jobs and why young workers are moving faster between roles than any previous generation.
In Australia, 47% of Gen Z were planning an early career break compared to 39% of Millennials and 25% of Gen X.
“We’re seeing a fundamental shift in how Gen Z sees work. Many are opting for early career breaks not out of burnout, but as a conscious choice to reset, travel, or realign their goals. It’s less about stepping away and more about stepping back with intention,” said Angela Anasis, Executive General Manager of Randstad Australia.
“This generation isn’t afraid to disrupt the traditional career timeline. Taking six months off to freelance, study, or explore passion projects early in their career isn’t seen as a risk – it’s a strategy,” she said.
the restless generation
Globally, the report also found Gen Z has a 22% attrition rate over the past 12 months - the highest of any generation with 53% actively job hunting.
One in three Gen Z plan to leave their current role within a year whilst only 11% said they intended to stay in their role.
“This was even lower in Australia - with only 6% of Gen Z workers saying they want to stay indefinitely with their current organisation,” said Ms Anasis.
35% said they were planning on quitting in the next 12 months.
“Unlike previous generations, Gen Z doesn’t equate loyalty with longevity. If a role doesn’t align with their values, growth expectations or lifestyle, they’re comfortable walking away – sometimes within a year,” she said.
the side hustles
Australian Gen Z workers are reflecting a global trend of embracing side hustles and multiple jobs amid a challenging economic climate and a shrinking number of full-time roles.
Only 38% of Australian Gen Z hold a single full-time role compared to the global average of 45%. One in five would prefer a full-time role with a side hustle.
“The old career ladder is missing a few rungs,” said Ms Anasis. “But Gen Z are finding ways to build their own – combining jobs, using AI to supercharge learning, and seeking employers who provide real progression.”
other data points
- Only 54% of Australian Gen Z say their current job aligns with their dream career, which is slightly below the global average and significantly lower than countries like India (77%) and France (62%).
- 52% of Australian Gen Z don't have the confidence to find another job, the highest of all generations in Australia. This is higher than the global Gen Z average (41%).
- 52% of Gen Z say they feel unable to pursue their dream career due to their education. 45% of Australian Gen Z (vs. 40% globally) feel held back due to their personal background, the highest for all age groups in Australia.
- Entry-level job postings have dropped 29 percentage points globally since January 2024, including sharp declines in tech (-35%), finance (-24%) and logistics (-25%).
Randstad’s research suggests employers need to adapt talent strategies quickly
- Rethink entry-level roles: design them as launchpads with visible career progression.
- Prioritise purpose and progression: trust and loyalty will follow. Close the AI training gap: ensure equitable access so all young Australians can benefit.
“Gen Z in Australia are not disengaged – they are driven. They want growth, purpose and flexibility, and they’re willing to move quickly to find it. Employers who redesign entry-level roles as genuine stepping stones, and invest in fair and inclusive development, will be the ones who retain this generation,” said Ms Anasis.
About Randstad
Randstad is the world’s leading talent company and a partner of choice to clients and talent. We are committed to providing equitable opportunities to people from all backgrounds and help them remain relevant in the rapidly changing world of work. We have a deep understanding of the labour market and help our clients to create the high-quality, diverse and agile workforces they need to succeed. Our 40,000+ employees around the world make a positive impact on society by helping people to realise their true potential throughout their working life.
Headquartered in the Netherlands, Randstad operates in 39 markets and has approximately 40,000 employees. In 2024, we supported over 1.7 million talent to find work and generated a revenue of €24.1 billion. Randstad N.V. is listed on the Euronext Amsterdam. For more information, see www.randstad.com
For more information, contact:
Mikaela Johnson, Head of Communications.
t: +61 (431) 459 227
e: mikaela.johnson@randstad.com.au