In June, job ad volumes experienced a 2.3 per cent decrease month-on-month (m/m) and a significant 22.1 per cent decline year-on-year (y/y).
This marked the fifth consecutive month of decline, with job ads dropping 7.5 per cent since January. However, it’s important to note that despite the recent decline, job ad volumes remain 18.2 per cent higher than they were in June 2019.
Job ads fell by 2.3 per cent m/m, and are now 22.1 per cent lower compared to June last year, when ad volumes were coming off their peak. Job ads have declined for five consecutive months, dropping 7.5 per cent since January, yet remain 18.2 per cent higher than in June 2019.
On the other hand, the number of applications per job ad has been on an upward trajectory, showing growth in eleven out of the past twelve months. In the period from April to May, there was a notable increase of 2.9 per cent in applications per job ad. This rise brings the current volumes to nearly the same levels seen in June 2019, indicating a steady recovery in applicant interest and engagement.
Analysing the state and territory insights, it becomes apparent that New South Wales (-3.0 per cent), Queensland (-3.4 per cent), and Victoria (-1.7 per cent) were the main contributors to the overall decline in job ads during June. On the other hand, Tasmania stood out with the largest rise in job ads, experiencing a 3.2 per cent increase m/m.
Taking a closer look at specific industries, four sectors observed a month-on-month increase in job ads. These industries include Government & Defence (5.8 per cent), Farming, Animals & Conservation (0.9 per cent), Sport & Recreation (0.8 per cent), and Community Services & Development (0.3 per cent). These sectors exhibited some resilience and demonstrated growth in their hiring needs.
However, several industries encountered a decline in job ads during June. Hospitality & Tourism (-5.7 per cent), Manufacturing, Transport & Logistics (-4.5 per cent), and Healthcare & Medical (-2.6 per cent) were the industries that contributed the most to this decline. These sectors faced challenges and experienced reduced demand for job opportunities.
June data, Kendra Banks, Managing Director, SEEK ANZ, says: “Job have been moderating over the last few months and have softened further in June with a 2.3 per cent decline month-on-month. The economic climate, combined with financial year-end, were likely significant factors impacting employers’ appetite for hiring in June.
“Applications per job ad continue to grow healthily and are now almost exactly on par with June 2019 levels. This indicates increasing interest among candidates and is partly a result of declining job ad volumes.
“Despite the economic outlook, and perhaps due to rising costs of living, more candidates are looking to make a change and are hitting the apply button on new opportunities – most notably for roles in warehouses, administration, and the airline industry.
“Most industries are recording an increase in application activity, with popular roles in Aged Care & Disability Support, Childcare and Automotive Trades.”
Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
