Workers rate job security ahead of pay amid concerns about redundancies this year

68% of Australian workers are concerned about redundancies occurring at their company in 2025
Tech workers (78%) and those in NSW (75%) are most concerned about potential redundancies in 2025
39% of workers prioritise their job security ahead of pay this year
To prepare for possible redundancy, 49% of workers are pursuing further training to improve their marketability, while 45% are passively looking for a new job

Sydney, 19 March 2025 – Fear about potential redundancies this year has made job security a paramount concern for workers, who now prioritise maintaining their employment over higher pay, new independent research by specialised recruiter Robert Half finds.

More than two-thirds (68%) of workers are concerned redundancies will occur at their company in 2025 and many more (92%) are already taking steps to increase their employability if they do need to find a new role.

Meanwhile, more than a third (39%) of workers are prioritising job security ahead of pay this year, as they recognise the tough economic conditions their employers are juggling and are uncertain as to whether they will find a better position at another company. It compares to 21% who prioritise salary over job security, and 40% who value both equally.

“It’s clear that there is a significant level of apprehension among workers about potential redundancies in the coming year,” says Andrew Brushfield, Director at Robert Half. “That job security surpasses pay in worker priorities signals a climate of market uncertainty and a shift towards valuing stability and long-term career prospects.”

Differences in the level of concern

When workers were asked about their redundancy concerns, there were stark differences in concern between industries and regions even though fears persist among the majority.

The research shows tech workers are the most concerned about their job security, with more than three-quarters (78%) worried that redundancies will occur at their company this year. A large proportion of finance and accounting professionals (69%) also are concerned about the future of their role. Administration and customer service employees feel more secure about their role, however 56% of them still hold concerns about redundancies in 2025.

Professionals in New South Wales (75%) are most anxious about redundancies in 2025, followed by those in Western Australia (71%). Workers in Victoria (66%) and Queensland (61%) are less anxious about their job security than their interstate counterparts, but the majority still hold concerns.

How workers are tackling their concerns

The research reveals most workers are making sure they are prepared for a redundancy if and when it may occur, regardless of whether they are concerned about their job security this year. In fact, 92% are taking one or more steps to prepare for a potential redundancy. For some, that entails looking for another job to move into before a redundancy can occur. For others, their preparations involve being informed about their company’s plans and increasing their employability.

The measures workers are taking	Percentage of workers
Pursuing training or certifications to improve their marketability	49%
Passively looking for a new job	45%
Taking on side projects	36%
Actively looking for a new job	27%
Asking their manager about potential redundancies and how their role may be impacted	25%
None of the above	8%

Independent survey commissioned by Robert Half among 1,000 full-time office workers in Australia

“Workers are on the front foot, preparing for employment changes by taking ownership of their career development and seeking to future-proof their skills, before their role may be impacted by restructures within their company. This is part of a shift we’re seeing towards proactive career management. Workers are upskilling, networking and exploring side hustles, not just to enhance their pay package but to strengthen their long-term career prospects.

“If redundancies do eventuate, having this kind of positive and proactive attitude will stand workers in good stead to secure their next role,” concluded Brushfield.

RobertHalf_redundancies_Mar.pdf

Notes to editors

About the research

The study is developed by Robert Half and was conducted online in November 2024 by an independent research company of 1,000 full-time office workers in finance, accounting, business support, and IT and technology. Respondents are drawn from a sample of SMEs as well as large private, publicly-listed and public sector organisations across Australia. This survey is part of the international workplace survey, a questionnaire about job trends, talent management, and trends in the workplace.

About Robert Half

Robert Half is the global, specialised talent solutions provider that helps employers find their next great hire and jobseekers uncover their next opportunity. Robert Half offers both contract and permanent placement services, and is the parent company of Protiviti, a global consulting firm. Robert Half Australia has offices in Brisbane, Melbourne, Mount Waverley, Perth, and Sydney. More information on roberthalf.com/au.   

For more information    

Courtney Fletcher

PR Manager

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+61 421 209 304