South Australia market insights
Takeaways from people2people's 2026 Report
South Australia market breakdown
Key trends and insights
South Australia’s 2026 employment market feels steady and quietly confident, with job ads sitting at 14,000. While vacancies fell 2.3% month-on-month, they are up 3.8% annually, pointing to a market that remains stable and is tracking better than many other states. Employers are continuing to invest in capability through a measured and deliberate hiring environment, with a clear focus on long-term fit, workforce quality, and building stronger teams.
At the same time, hiring remains controlled rather than aggressive, with much of the activity still shaped by workforce movement rather than broad expansion. Even so, the overall tone remains positive. South Australia feels balanced and forward-looking in 2026, with cautious decision-making helping support a more sustainable and confident path ahead.
2026 South Australia Labour Market
4.3%
Unemployment Rate
66.9%
National Participation Rate
2.1%
National Application Increase
-6%
Annual National Job Ad Change
58%
Job Seeker Confidence Index
48%
Hiring Confidence Index
South Australia job seeker sentiment
How engaged are people in today's job market?
South Australian job seekers in 2026 are demonstrating a more cautious, considered approach to career decisions. With fewer people actively pursuing a move compared to other states, candidates are taking their time to assess whether a new role truly aligns with their values and long-term aspirations. Stability, supportive leadership, and opportunities for purposeful work are central to their decision-making.
At the same time, there’s a sizable cohort who remain open to change but only under the right circumstances. This has created a market where employers must offer clarity, authenticity, and genuine development pathways to attract interest. South Australia’s employment landscape feels thoughtful and steady — a place where job seekers prioritise quality, connection, and confidence in their next step.
36%
of jobseekers are passively looking or hesitant to move
62%
of job seekers are engaged in at least 3 interview processes
14%
of job seekers say their salary is below market levels
27%
of job seekers say salary doesn't reflect performance or workload
Are you being paid your worth?
Know the South Australia market before you apply
Employment trends shaping South Australia labour market in 2025
What key factors are driving talent retention in 2025?
Talent retention remains a key priority in today’s competitive job market. As workforce dynamics evolve, understanding what matters most to employees is essential. Focusing on factors such as career growth, management support, and work-life balance helps employers strengthen engagement and build lasting loyalty.
Why are you losing your staff in 2025?
Employee retention and resignation remain key challenges in today’s evolving workforce. Understanding why people leave and how to keep them engaged is essential for long-term success. As priorities shift toward career growth, culture, and leadership, businesses must adapt their strategies to retain talent. What’s driving resignations in 2025, and how can organisations better support and sustain their people?
What's the impact of forcing a return to the office?
As return-to-office mandates rise, businesses are increasingly concerned about their impact on morale, productivity, and retention. With flexibility now an expectation, finding the right balance between in-person collaboration and remote autonomy is vital. The challenge lies in making office returns work for both people and performance.
2026 Employment & Salary Report
Stay ahead of your market across Australia
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 2026
- Identify emerging and current hiring and salary trends
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