The Rise of Multiple Job-Holding in Australia

The rise of multiple jobs holding in Australia

The trend of Australians taking on more than one job has seen a notable increase in recent years, reflecting a shift in the employment landscape. As reported by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, as of June 2024, 6.5% of Australians are now holding multiple jobs, representing over 900,000 people. This is a sharp rise compared to a decade ago when only 5% of Australians were in similar circumstances, amounting to approximately 600,000 people. Such figures indicate a marked change in the dynamics of the workforce and are largely influenced by the rising cost of living, job insecurity, and evolving work preferences.

What’s particularly striking is that the rise is not limited to any single demographic group. While traditionally younger workers, aged 20-24, were more likely to engage in multiple job-holding, recent statistics reveal that older Australians are also joining this trend. This reflects a broader economic impact that is pushing individuals from diverse backgrounds to seek additional sources of income. The slight dip observed between 2023 and 2024 does not diminish the long-term upward trend, indicating that multi-job holding is becoming a more permanent feature of the Australian job market.

“Many workers are concerned about potential job losses and see holding multiple jobs as a way to safeguard their financial stability.”

During a recent Australia Market Update, people2people Queensland Managing Director Ben Wheeler addressed this growing trend in our Stat of the Week, highlighting some of the key reasons behind the increase. “The rising cost of living is one of the primary drivers pushing more Australians to seek additional employment opportunities,” Ben stated. He elaborated on the pressure this places on families, as many are now balancing multiple roles to maintain their standard of living. “It’s not just about income; it’s about security. Many workers are concerned about potential job losses and see holding multiple jobs as a way to safeguard their financial stability.”

Ben’s insights reflect a broader concern in the labour market. The nature of work is evolving, with job roles and expectations shifting in response to economic pressures. More Australians are taking on gig or part-time roles in addition to their main employment, seeking flexibility and, in some cases, greater job satisfaction. This change is not merely a temporary solution but part of a longer-term adjustment to new economic realities.

 “The stress and burnout associated with managing multiple roles is something we can’t overlook,” Ben said. This highlights a crucial challenge for both employees and employers. While having multiple jobs can provide financial relief, it often comes at the cost of mental and physical well-being. Employers need to be aware of these pressures and consider how they can support workers who may be juggling several roles.

Ben also noted the implications for businesses, particularly around employee retention and engagement. “As more people turn to second jobs, it’s going to be harder for employers to build loyalty. Companies need to be proactive in understanding why their employees might be seeking other opportunities,” he commented. This presents a unique challenge for HR professionals and business leaders. Addressing the root causes—such as remuneration, job security, and career development—will be crucial to maintaining a committed workforce.

The increase in multi-job holding has also led to some positive developments. As the conversation pointed out, this trend is giving rise to a more diverse skill set among workers. With experience across multiple industries or roles, employees are becoming more versatile and adaptable. However, this adaptability must be balanced with the potential drawbacks of overextension and fatigue.

Managing Multiple Jobs Effectively: Tips for Employees
For individuals managing two or more jobs, staying organised and maintaining a healthy work-life balance can be particularly challenging. Here are some strategies to help navigate the complexities of multiple roles:

1. Set Clear Priorities: Determine which job is your main source of income or fulfilment and ensure it receives the attention it needs. This doesn’t mean neglecting secondary roles but having a clear understanding of where your primary focus should lie.
2. Create a Structured Schedule: With multiple jobs, time management is crucial. Use a calendar to map out your commitments and build in time for breaks, self-care, and personal time. Avoid the temptation to overcommit by taking on too many shifts or projects.
3. Communicate with Your Employers: If both roles are aware that you’re juggling multiple commitments, they may be more accommodating when it comes to scheduling conflicts or deadlines. Transparency can prevent misunderstandings and help build a supportive work environment.
4. Take Time for Self-Care: Burnout is a real risk for those managing more than one job. Make it a priority to schedule downtime and engage in activities that rejuvenate you. Whether it’s exercise, hobbies, or simply rest, taking care of your mental and physical health is essential.
5. Leverage Your Skills Across Roles: If your jobs are in different fields, consider how you can apply the skills and knowledge from one role to enhance performance in the other. This cross-pollination can lead to greater job satisfaction and professional development.
6. Review Your Finances Regularly: One of the main reasons people hold multiple jobs is financial necessity. Regularly reviewing your budget and financial goals can help ensure that the effort you’re putting in is yielding the desired results. If the financial benefits aren’t outweighing the stress, it may be worth reassessing your commitments.

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In business since 2002 in Australia, NZ, and the United Kingdom, people2people is an award-winning recruitment agency with people at our heart. With over 12 offices, we specialise in accounting and finance, business support, education, executive, government, HR, legal, marketing and digital, property, sales, supply chain, and technology sectors. As the proud recipients of the 2024 Outstanding Large Agency and Excellence in Candidate Care Awards, we are dedicated to helping businesses achieve success through a people-first approach.