As economic pressures, technological disruption and talent shortages reshape the employment landscape a new survey from leading talent company Randstad reveals that Australian workers are focused on one thing: staying employable.
More than two in three (71%) of Australians surveyed in the latest Workmonitor Pulse Survey said that long-term employability is more important than being able to work remotely — a clear sign that in an uncertain economic environment, flexibility, while still valued, is no longer the top priority for many employees.
“This data shows an important reset in the mindset of the Australian workforce,” said Amelia O’Carrigan, Randstad’s Director of Public Sector and Business Support.
“Flexibility and remote work dominated the post-pandemic conversation — but today, employability has emerged as the most important priority for talent. People want to know their skills will stay relevant in a fast-changing world.”
The report highlights a number of key trade-offs Australian workers are increasingly willing to make:
- 52% of Australians say they would rather have access to upskilling and training opportunities than the option to work remotely.
- 67% globally said employability was more important than doing a job that excites them, reflecting a shift toward security and relevance over passion projects.
- In Australia, this trade-off was even more pronounced, reinforcing the desire for long-term value over short-term convenience.
“It’s no longer just about where you work, but whether your job will still be in demand tomorrow,” said Ms O’Carrigan. “Employers who prioritise training, future-ready skills, and career development will have a clear advantage in today’s market.”
The report also underscores that flexibility isn’t off the table — but it’s evolving.
- 60% of Australian workers would prefer less stress over more money, and 40% have already taken a lower-paid role to reduce pressure.
- 59% said they would trade higher pay for greater control over their time, with Millennials and Gen Z leading this trend.
- 56% of Australians say time flexibility (control over when they work) matters more than location flexibility (control over where they work).
“Workers are making clear, intentional choices to improve their well-being,” said Ms O’Carrigan. “Stress is now a dealbreaker. So is a lack of control over time. Employers must consider how work is designed, not just where it's done.”
While many employers continue to push for a return to full-time in-office work, the Randstad data shows that Australians are expecting something in return:
- 65% want greater time autonomy,
- 64% expect a higher salary, and
- 61% want more leave days if they’re required to work on-site full-time.
Mandatory returns without added benefits risk employee attrition. Randstad’s data also shows that 38% of employees would consider quitting if forced to return full-time, even if it meant a lower salary elsewhere.
“The message is simple: employers must meet talent halfway,” said Ms O’Carrigan. “This isn’t about giving everything away — it’s about offering fair, meaningful trade-offs that show you value your people.”
While employability is emerging as the new foundation for engagement, Randstad’s report reveals the key drivers of long-term retention in the Australian workforce:
- 74% want annual pay rises that match or exceed inflation,
- 68% value strong managerial support for career progression, and
- 67% are more likely to stay with employers that share their personal values.
“Employability gets people in the door — but purpose, support, and fair pay keep them there,” said Ms O’Carrigan. “This is a crucial moment for employers to rethink their value proposition. Those who adapt quickly will be the ones who attract and retain Australia’s best talent.”
about workmonitor pulse
The Randstad Workmonitor Pulse survey, May 2025 edition, explores the views of working people in Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America. Data was collected from 5,250 respondents in 7 markets (Australia, Germany, Italy, Japan, Poland, UK, and United States) between 28 March and 9 April 2025.
For this research, Randstad partnered with Evalueserve, a global research and analysis firm.
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, contact:
Mikaela Johnson, Head of Communications.
0431 459 227 or mikaela.johnson@randstad.com.au