In recent years, the trend of holding multiple jobs has become more common in Australia. As of March 2024, a record 974,000 Australians, or 6.7% of the employed population, were managing more than one job. This is a slight increase from December 2023, when 962,000 individuals were reported to have multiple jobs. This trend reflects broader economic and social changes, driven by factors such as rising living costs and evolving employment patterns.
Demographic Trends
Women are more likely to hold multiple jobs than men, with 7.3% of employed women working multiple jobs compared to 6.0% of employed men. This disparity highlights the unique economic pressures faced by women, who often balance work with caregiving responsibilities. Additionally, younger workers, particularly those aged 20-24, are the most likely to have multiple jobs, with a rate of 7.3%. This age group is often in the early stages of their careers and may take on additional work to gain experience or supplement their income.
Economic Pressures
The rising cost of living is a significant factor driving the increase in multiple job holders. Many Australians find it necessary to take on extra jobs to make ends meet. This trend is particularly pronounced in urban areas where housing and living costs are higher. The need for additional income to cover basic expenses such as rent, utilities, and groceries has led many to seek supplementary employment.
Industry Insights
Certain industries are more prone to multiple job holding than others. Community and personal service workers are the most likely to hold multiple jobs, with 9.8% of workers in this sector having more than one job. This sector includes roles such as healthcare workers, personal care aides, and hospitality staff, which often offer flexible hours but may not provide sufficient income from a single job.
Employment Growth and Future Trends
Looking ahead, total employment in Australia is projected to increase by around 6.5% over the next five years, reaching approximately 14.8 million by 2028. By 2033, employment is expected to grow by 14.2%, adding about 2 million more jobs compared to current levels. The Health Care and Social Assistance sector is anticipated to see the most significant growth, increasing its share of total employment from 15.2% in 2023 to 16.7% by 2033. Other sectors expected to grow substantially include Professional, Scientific and Technical Services, and Education and Training.
Occupational Shifts and Skills Demand
The demand for Professionals, Managers, and Community and Personal Service Workers is expected to continue rising. These groups are projected to make up 40.7% of total employment by 2033, up from 39.1% in 2023. Over the next decade, more than 90% of new jobs will require post-secondary qualifications. This underscores the increasing importance of vocational education and training (VET) and higher education in meeting future workforce needs.
Technological and Energy Sector Impacts
The integration of technology and AI is expected to drive significant changes in the workforce. Jobs in the tech sector are growing at triple the rate of the rest of the economy, and there is a notable deficit of tech-capable workers. Additionally, the shift towards renewable energy is projected to double the demand for skilled labor in this sector over the next five years. This will create numerous opportunities for workers with the necessary skills and training.
The rise of multiple job holding in Australia is a multifaceted issue influenced by demographic trends, economic pressures, and industry-specific factors. As the workforce continues to evolve, understanding these dynamics will be crucial for policymakers, employers, and workers alike. Addressing the underlying causes, such as the cost of living and the need for flexible, well-paying jobs, will be essential in managing this trend.
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