Most Aussies Consider Second Jobs as Living Costs Rise
- admin928749
- 31 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Most Australians are seriously thinking about picking up a second job or side hustle, according to new research.
Global recruitment firm Robert Walters surveyed 2,000 Aussie professionals and found that 70% are either considering or already juggling a second job. The main reason? A whopping 90% worry their salary alone won’t cover their yearly expenses.
Shay Peters, CEO of Robert Walters Australia and New Zealand, says the rising cost of living is pushing people to explore all kinds of options—from side gigs to even moving interstate—all in search of financial stability.
“Work-life balance used to be the top priority, but now salary is back in the spotlight,” Peters said. “People just can’t afford to stay in jobs that don’t pay enough to keep up with their lives.”
This wage squeeze is also driving a lot of people to think about moving. The study found that 54% of Australians have considered relocating interstate to find better pay, cheaper housing, or new career opportunities.
“Where you live isn’t just about lifestyle anymore—it’s a strategic financial decision,” Peters explained. “Finding a place where you can earn a good income without spending it all on basics is becoming a major factor.”
The survey also looked at which states are feeling the pinch the most:
In NSW, 90% of people said their pay doesn’t keep up with living costs.
In Victoria, that number was 84%.
In Queensland, 83% weren’t happy with salary growth.
In Western Australia, 80% had salary concerns.
Peters calls this a real wake-up call for employers.
“Businesses need to listen up—if salaries don’t reflect the cost of living, they risk losing skilled workers to better-paying jobs, side gigs, or even other states,” she warned.
In short: Aussies are feeling the financial pressure, and it’s shaking up how—and where—they work.
More updates to come on AusNewsLanka.
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