Why Aussie workers are quietly planning to quit - and the real reason should terrify bosses

Daily Mail​

2 days ago

A new report has delivered a brutal reality check to Aussie employers: most workers are planning to walk.
Despite a shaky economy, almost two-thirds of Australians say they're ready to ditch their jobs in the next 12 months, chasing better pay, more flexibility, and actual career progression.
The Hays 2025–26 Salary Guide, released Wednesday, surveyed over 12,000 professionals and hiring managers across 25 industries and found a whopping 61 per cent of workers want out.
While that's slightly down from last year's shocking 77 per cent, it still signals a looming jobs exodus, with the top reasons being no future in their current roles (45 per cent), low pay (42 per cent), and a mix of unchallenging work, job insecurity, poor management, and lack of work-life balance.
'The data tells a story of paradox and caution,' Hays Asia-Pacific chief executive Matthew Dickason said.
Mr Dickason says Aussie workers are no longer satisfied with crumbs and that small pay bumps just aren't cutting it anymore.
'Employees are satisfied enough to stay put for now, yet a significant portion are looking to move elsewhere, wary that small pay increases aren't worth accepting.'
While 60 per cent of workers believe they're underpaid, it's not just about the money anymore, and Mr Dickason said Aussie workers want career progression and perks.
'This should tell employers that despite the cost of living, salary is no longer enough - benefits, progression, and purpose matter more than ever.'
Those most likely to quit their jobs are professionals aged 40–59 in intermediate or management roles.
'With only marginal increases in permanent hiring intentions, this surge in employee turnover signals a critical moment for employers: take action to retain top talent or risk falling further behind in an already competitive market,' Mr Dickason added.
Only 33 per cent of workers actually switched jobs over the past year - but the dissatisfaction is growing, and it's not just workers feeling frustrated.
The report also revealed that employers are taking more time to find and hire suitable applicants due to a skills shortage and the impact of artificial intelligence (AI), which has resulted in an increased volume of generic, low-fit applications.
This has created a gridlocked system, sparking growing frustration from both employers and workers.
'We are finding employers are reporting more job applications, but fewer suitable candidates,' Mr Dickason said.
'At the same time, job seekers say they're applying more, but getting fewer responses.
'When job seekers rely too heavily on AI to generate applications, quality and legitimacy suffer. Candidates need to carefully review and personalise AI-generated content to ensure it's accurate, relevant, and highlights the human skills employers value most.'
He had this advice for Aussies seeking a career change.
'Define what matters most to you: is it salary, relevant benefits, purpose, or progression? Be clear on what you'll walk away with, and what trade-offs you're willing to make,' Mr Dickason said.
'With employers reporting a need for stronger human skills, now is the time to invest in your communication, adaptability, and decision-making.
'While pay is a top motivator, don't overlook the long game: flexibility, culture, and growth opportunities are increasingly becoming deal-breakers.
'Take control of your development, be selective in your applications, and aim to align with organisations that match both your values and ambitions.'