Australian Property Sector Update: Trends Reshaping Hiring

Australia's property and real estate sector is set for a dynamic year in 2025 as it navigates evolving market conditions and ongoing workforce challenges. While there are plans for growth, the industry is still grappling with critical talent shortages, especially in roles related to property and facilities management. Twenty-three percent of employers report difficulty in hiring commercial property managers, and 20% face similar issues in securing residential property managers. In contrast, the need for administration and account managers has decreased.

Despite these challenges, the outlook is not entirely negative. A promising 64% of employers are now willing to train candidates who lack direct experience but are a good cultural fit. This shift suggests a more flexible and inclusive approach to hiring. The most sought-after roles for 2025 include commercial property managers, facilities managers, and residential property managers.

Hiring in the sector is primarily driven by replacements (36%) rather than business expansion (31%), with 20% of companies not planning any recruitment at all. This indicates a mix of caution and confidence among industry leaders. Bonuses and remote work remain the most common benefits, offered by 56% of employers, though there is a notable decline in the focus on career development, down from 54% in 2024 to 36% this year.

Meanwhile, the role of technology is expanding. More than 75% of teams are now using artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance operational efficiency. Tools such as virtual property tours and AI-assisted workflows are becoming more widespread, transforming how property services are delivered.

"The pressure to attract and retain talent remains"

According to Peta Seaman, SA Managing Director at people2people, "The pressure to attract and retain talent remains." Her observation captures the ongoing recruitment strain that employers face despite an appetite for growth. With 66% of property teams planning to expand in 2025, the labour market remains a critical concern.

Peta notes that roles in commercial and residential property management, along with facilities and operations, are particularly hard to fill. "Employers are still struggling to find people for these positions," she says. This talent gap is prompting some organisations to take a broader view when assessing candidates. "Sixty-four percent of employers are open to training those who align with their values and culture," Peta adds, highlighting a shift toward potential-based hiring.

While some firms are responding proactively, others are less optimistic. "Twenty percent of businesses have no hiring plans at all this year," Peta points out, underscoring the uneven levels of confidence across the sector. She also comments on the changing nature of benefits: "Bonuses and remote work are still being offered by over half of employers, but investment in career development has dropped significantly."

The increasing adoption of technology is another key development. With over three-quarters of property teams now using AI tools, businesses are modernising their approach to property management. "Virtual property tours and AI-assisted workflows are really gaining traction," Peta observes, indicating a trend that could reshape how work is structured in the industry.

Looking ahead, companies that invest in upskilling and smart tech solutions will be better positioned to attract and retain the talent needed to meet growth targets. Peta believes this will be vital: "With most teams under-resourced, flexibility and innovation will be essential for staying competitive."

Tips for Property Employers in 2025

• Develop structured training programs to onboard culturally aligned but inexperienced hires

• Prioritise flexible work policies and performance-based bonuses

• Reinstate or increase investment in career development pathways

• Leverage AI tools for property tours and workflow automation



• Monitor resource levels and adjust hiring strategies to meet demand efficiently