AI in recruitment: Why hiring is harder

AI is transforming the hiring landscape and creating new demands, reshaping the skills organisations need and adding complexity to how employers evaluate talent and build teams. A Robert Half survey across Australia reveals how these shifts are influencing the hiring process and provides insights to help you make smarter decisions, navigate new challenges and strengthen your talent strategy.

AI’s impact on hiring in Australia

AI adoption is driving new hiring needs and pushing companies to rethink workforce planning. Organisations are focusing on competency-based recruitment, upskilling and building adaptable teams.

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97%

of employers report challenges in hiring talent with the right AI and automation skills.

92%

of tech leaders say they need specific AI-related roles in their organisation.

83%

of workers believe developing generative AI skills is necessary for career success.

of hiring managers say AI-generated resumes make it difficult to accurately assess candidate quality. 

of employers find it challenging to find talent with the right AI and automation skills. 

of employers think AI-generated resumes and AI-generated cover letters are somewhat or completely unacceptable. 

AI investment areas

While some organisations are holding back on AI integration, largely due to change management challenges and a lack of expertise, there continues to be ongoing investment, particularly in the following areas.

89% of employers are using AI in some capacity across finance, HR or technology processes. 

AI is most commonly being used in software development and DevOps (64%), budget, forecasting and planning (59%) and job description creation and optimisation (58%).

8 out of 10 organisations anticipate AI proficiency will continue driving salary growth in their organisation over the next 1-2 years. 

Benefits of working with Robert Half

Faster hiring is just the beginning. Advantages also include: 

Skills evaluation: Reduced risk from AI-inflated resumes

Performance-based: Client feedback on placed candidates and long-term candidate relationships inform better matches

Future-ready talent: Specialised candidates for evolving roles 

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AI in your job search

AI is now a go-to for resume optimisation, cover letter writing and interview prep. Used wisely, it can help you research opportunities, tailor your materials and boost your LinkedIn profile. But AI can’t replace your real experience or speak for you in an interview. Over-reliance on AI and  fabricated outputs undermines credibility. 

The key is balance: let AI support the process, but make sure your authentic voice and expertise shine through. AI is a tool. Your skills and experience earn the offer. 

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How staffing firms can help

Staffing firms are helping companies evaluate talent, validate their skills and avoid costly hiring mistakes.

67% say they’re more likely to seek support from a staffing firm to help navigate AI-related hiring challenges.

89% of hiring managers say staffing firms have been effective in addressing AI-related hiring challenges.

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The study was developed by Robert Half and conducted online by an independent research company of 500 hiring managers and 1,000 full-time office workers in finance, accounting, human resources, and IT and technology in 2024 and 2025. Respondents are drawn from SMEs as well as large private, publicly-listed and public sector organisations across Australia. This survey is part of an international workplace survey focused on job trends, talent management, and trends in the workplace.