Australian firms expanding globally in response to workforce challenges: report
Nearly nine in 10 Australian businesses are setting their sights on the international talent pool amid strong hiring sentiments for 2025, according to a new report.
Rippling's State of Hiring Report, which surveyed 500 Australian business leaders, found that 86% are planning to hire more staff next year.
Among them, 89% are looking internationally in response to persistent skills shortages and rising local costs. Target markets include:
- Singapore (27%)
- China (25%)
- Broader Asia-Pacific region (25%)
"Amid economic uncertainty and shifting regulations, Australian businesses are showing remarkable resilience by expanding their workforces globally," said Matt Loop, VP and Head of Asia at Rippling, in a statement.
"It's encouraging to see this groundswell of cautious optimism as we head into 2025. When businesses grow, so does the economy, and it's clear that companies are committed to sustainable growth, even as they tackle skill shortages and adapt to regulatory complexities."
Shifting flexibility expectations in hiring
Meanwhile, the report also found a "shift towards a more balanced approach" towards flexibility in the workplace.
According to the report, more than half of the employers surveyed are less likely to hire candidates who are unwilling to work onsite five days a week (57%) and who will not work beyond contracted hours (60%).
"While flexibility remains important, we're seeing a shift towards a more balanced approach that supports operational goals and reflects evolving workforce dynamics," Loop said.
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But Loop noted that this could pose a problem for organisations seeking to recruit Gen Z candidates, who favour remote work and high flexibility.
The respondents are also aware of the concern, as 28% of the respondents said they are concerned about Gen Z's preference for remote work and reluctance to work beyond contractual hours.
Source: Rippling's State of Hiring Report
"Employers need to find a balance by creating growth pathways that respect these preferences while also ensuring that essential skills and experience are developed along the way," Loop advised.