Western Australia market insights

Takeaways from people2people's 2025 Report

Western Australia market breakdown

Key trends and insights

Western Australia’s 2026 employment market carries a distinctive sense of practicality and steady confidence, shaped by a hiring environment that remains active but measured. Job ads sit at 26,900, down just 0.9% month-on-month but up 2.5% annually, pointing to a market that is holding up relatively well. Employers are still recruiting with intent, focusing on long-term capability, workforce quality, and the critical skills needed to support ongoing operational demands. Much of that activity continues to be driven by workforce movement rather than broad expansion, reinforcing a more deliberate pace.

At the same time, competition for strong talent remains real, particularly in areas where technical capability, leadership, and long-term fit matter most. Organisations are placing greater focus on retention, development, and sustainable workforce planning as they balance hiring needs with a more controlled market. Overall, Western Australia in 2026 feels stable and forward-looking — a market that remains resilient, selective, and clear on where it needs to invest.

2025 Western Australia Labour Market

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4.3%

Unemployment Rate

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68.8%

National Participation Rate

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National Inflation Rate

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-6%

Annual National Job Ad Change

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58%

Job Seeker Confidence Index

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48%

Hiring Confidence Index

Western Australia job seeker sentiment

How engaged are people in today's job market?

Western Australian job seekers in 2026 are navigating the market with a blend of practicality and caution. Many are open to new opportunities, yet they are carefully evaluating the stability, culture, and work-life balance an employer can genuinely offer. Flexibility remains important, but there is an increasing emphasis on clarity around career development, supportive teams, and long-term security — particularly in industries experiencing shifting project demands.

There is also a noticeable group of workers who are hesitant to move unless an opportunity strongly aligns with their priorities. This has created a more discerning candidate environment, where organisations must offer authenticity and clear value to attract interest. The overall tone of WA’s market is measured and reflective — job seekers are choosing paths that support sustainability, balance, and meaningful contribution.

36%

Active job seekers

62%

Passive job seekers

14%

Hesitant job seekers

27%

Inactive job seekers

Are you being paid your worth?

Know the Western Australia market before you apply

Employment trends shaping Western Australia labour market in 2025

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2025 Employment & Salary Report

Stay ahead of your market across the UK

Take a closer look at what’s driving hiring in your industry, from shifting employer priorities to the roles most in demand. This comprehensive report reveals the key trends shaping recruitment and workforce strategy this year, providing your business with a competitive edge in today’s uncertain labour market.


  • Benchmark your company's attraction and retention strategies
  • Find out what job seekers are looking for in 2025
  • Identify emerging and current hiring and salary trends