The HR market remains active, but more selective.

Hiring is focused on roles tied to compliance, governance, regulatory changes and AI adoption.

Demand is strongest across ER, Reward, Workforce Planning, OD and renumerations.

We’re also seeing payroll functions increasingly sit within HR, driven by a need for more oversight on compliance risks associated with interpreting awards and EA agreements.

What’s shaping hiring

Economic uncertainty is keeping hiring measured.

At the same time, work place relations, legislation, compliance and AI nebula are increasing demand for specialist HR capability.

What we’re seeing on the ground

• Slower processes, except for standout candidates
• Candidate expectations are centred on flexibility, culture and career progression
• Contract hiring linked to transformation
• Permanent hiring into strategic roles
• Ongoing demand for ER, IR, Renumeration, Rewards, OD, Strategic workforce planning skill sets.

Where the market is heading

Investment will continue in HR capability linked to transformation, AI enablement, HR Technology and navigating legislative complexities.

The practical takeaway

Candidates should focus on skills that solve business problems not just HR processes: commercial acumen, data literacy, change experience and the use of technology/AI are increasingly expected. And don’t forget to network, network, network!

For hiring managers, speed, clarity and a compelling EVP matter. A slow process is still the biggest barrier to securing strong talent.