Queensland’s labour market continues to operate under pressure, with unemployment sitting just below 4%. Employers across the private sector are finding it increasingly difficult to secure experienced HR, talent, and safety professionals. Application numbers have dropped, competition for quality candidates remains fierce, and there's a noticeable increase in overseas applicants—bringing both opportunity and complexity to the hiring process.
There’s real momentum building around the use of AI and automation in recruitment. These tools are helping streamline processes, reduce bias, and improve overall hiring efficiency. At the same time, we’re seeing a shift toward skills-based hiring, where practical capability is being prioritised over traditional qualifications. This shift is unlocking broader and more inclusive talent pipelines and encouraging internal mobility.
Employee expectations continue to evolve. Flexibility, wellbeing, and alignment with company values are no longer perks—they're essentials. Burnout remains a major concern, particularly among people leaders and frontline teams. Organisations are being called to invest in meaningful wellbeing initiatives, smarter work design, and leadership capability that balances performance with care.
Compliance has taken on a sharper edge in 2025, particularly around psychosocial safety. All Queensland businesses are now required to have a written Sexual Harassment Prevention Plan in place. There's also growing focus on addressing risks like high workloads, bullying, and mental health impacts. Tech-led safety innovations—like wearables, real-time hazard detection, and AI-driven insights—are being adopted more widely across industries like construction, logistics, and manufacturing.
Emerging trends suggest the coming year will be one of both disruption and possibility. Businesses that move with intent, embrace innovation, and build rhythm around their people strategies will be best placed to attract, engage, and retain top talent in a market that’s showing no signs of slowing down.
Thinking about your next move?
If you're ready to shake things up, tighten your strategy, or just want a sounding board—we're here for it. At Move, we work with bold businesses across Queensland to connect them with top HR, Talent, and Safety professionals and bring meaningful hiring strategies to life. Let’s chat about how we can help you move forward with confidence.
