The state of employment in Australia: what’s really going on?

Australia’s employment landscape has seen some big shifts lately, sparking conversations about job security, income stability, and the challenges workers face.

According to ADPR People at Work 2025: A Global Workforce View survey, 83% of Australia's workforce holds only one job. This is higher than the global average of 77% and the Asia-Pacific (APAC) average of 76%, suggesting a strong preference for job stability.

While both men and women typically have just one job, our survey showed that younger workers are most likely to hold down multiple jobs. This trend raises questions about the economic pressures younger workers face — maybe they’re feeling the pinch and need to seek extra sources of income.

Multiple jobs: what’s the story?

So, why are people juggling two jobs? 58% say it’s to save for extra expenses, aiming to bolster financial stability amid the rising cost of living. Meanwhile, 52% need a second job to cover necessary expenses, highlighting a concerning trend where basic living costs strain work-life balance.

Even though many people hold multiple jobs, only 2% of Australia's workforce manages three or more. Among them, 58% take on extra work to save for retirement, highlighting concerns that long-term financial security is a big worry. This shows workers are actively planning for their future while managing their current financial obligations.

Living pay cheque to pay cheque

And the challenges don’t end there. The survey shows that half of Australia's workforce is living from pay cheque to pay cheque. While this is slightly better than the worldwide average of 57%, it’s more than the APAC average of 48%. This financial pressure can lead to high levels of stress and affect quality of life, making it essential to discuss wage growth, job security, and support systems for workers.

What’s next for employers?

As these trends unfold, businesses need to acknowledge the challenges employees face. Enhancing financial literacy, improving job security and supporting workers juggling multiple roles can pave the way for a more sustainable and balanced employment landscape in Australia.

While many workers successfully maintain stable single jobs, the significant number taking on multiple roles to meet financial essentials shows more must be done to address the financial pressures. By fostering environments that prioritise financial stability and work-life balance, Australia can work towards a healthier workforce.

About ADPR People at Work 2025: A Global Workforce View

Since 2015, this annual report has gathered information about the labour market from the workers' perspective. It aims to improve the world of work by providing employers with a better understanding worker sentiment and expectations.

Based on survey data from nearly 38,000 working adults in 34 markets across six continents, People at Work 2025 captures the voices of workers from various industries and educational backgrounds, in both on-site and remote settings.

Download your copy today to get insights into how workers feel and think, empowering you to tackle challenges and seize opportunities, now and in the future.