Australian workers want to move, and want more chances to work flexibly, study shows

Nearly half of Australia’s workforce (45 per cent) either want to relocate within Australia, or are already in the process of doing so. Additionally, 40 per cent of respondents to a recent survey were planning to, or were in the process of, moving overseas.

 

The People at Work: A Global Workforce View survey also found that flexibility was an important consideration for many workers, with the capacity to work from home being an important influence on whether people wanted to relocate, with those who already worked from home (58 per cent) being almost three times more likely than those who were not (20 per cent) to want a sea or tree change.

 

“The last few years have given some employees the confidence that remote work is viable for them. This has opened up a plethora of opportunities to relocate and pursue a better quality of life, affordable housing, and new job opportunities,” said Kylie Baullo, Managing Director Australia and New Zealand at ADP. 

 

“The pandemic changed workers’ expectations and we are seeing an increased need for employers to provide a better work-life balance to retain and attract top talent,” Mrs Baullo added.  

 

Young workers, aged between 18 and 24 years, were most likely to want to relocate, with 60 per cent of them looking for a change of scene. In the age bracket of 45-54 years, only 28 per cent felt the same. 

  

“This dispersed workforce creates a win-win for employees and employers,” Mrs Baullo added. “The high cost of living in major cities has made rural and regional areas more appealing, especially to younger workers.” 

 

ADP also suggests employers need to be best prepared for a hybrid workplace. 

 

“With flexible working here to stay, employers should instead look to embrace and plan for a dispersed workforce,” Mrs Baullo said. 

 

“Businesses should look to offer remote work options. With the potential for multiple employees moving at any given time, and the variety of payment conditions that can occur in different locations – both domestically and overseas, working with a payroll expert to manage smooth transitions is important.”