Recruitment Outlook 2026

Recruitment Outlook 2026: What We’re Seeing Across Australia

Introduction

As we move into 2026, hiring conditions across Australia are beginning to reset after a cautious 2024–25.

Based on live recruitment activity across Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, this outlook reflects what employers are actually hiring for, where skills shortages remain, and how candidate behavior is shifting across infrastructure, energy, commercial and project-led environments.

This is not a forecast pulled from headlines it’s grounded in day-to-day conversations with hiring managers and candidates working on real projects.

Hiring Conditions Across Australia in 2026

While sentiment is improving nationally, hiring remains selective. Employers are prioritising experienced operators who can add value quickly, particularly in project-based and delivery-focused roles. Permanent hiring is returning in pockets, while contract and project roles continue to dominate infrastructure, energy and major works.

Queensland: Infrastructure and Energy Driving Demand

Queensland continues to lead hiring momentum, driven by energy, gas, transport and large-scale infrastructure programs. Demand remains strong for site-based professionals, supervisors, project engineers and commercial specialists who understand live delivery environments.

Skills shortages persist in specialist and supervisory roles, particularly where safety, compliance and practical experience are critical.

New South Wales and Victoria: Selective but Active

In New South Wales and Victoria, hiring activity is more measured but consistent. Employers are focused on critical roles tied to revenue protection, project governance and commercial control.

We’re seeing continued demand for experienced commercial managers, finance professionals and project specialists who can operate confidently within complex stakeholder environments.

What Candidates Are Prioritising in 2026

Candidates are increasingly selective. Beyond salary, they are weighing project stability, leadership quality, site culture and long-term pipeline.

Employers who can clearly articulate project scope, expectations and progression are moving faster,and securing stronger talent.

As 2026 unfolds, organisations that stay close to market conditions, and move decisively when the right talent becomes available, will be best positioned to deliver.

Aequalis Consulting continues to support clients across Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, partnering closely with infrastructure, energy, commercial and project-driven businesses to secure experienced professionals who can make an immediate impact.

If you’d like a confidential conversation about hiring conditions or upcoming needs, we’re always happy to talk.

Feel free to get in touch

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Recruitment Outlook 2026