According to Blair Chapman, a senior economist at Seek, the climbing cost of living, particularly for households with employed members, has compelled many to find supplementary work. "Living expenses have notably increased in recent years," he observed, suggesting that individuals, especially those with mortgages, are likely seeking a second job to cope with these financial demands.
Despite a stable unemployment rate around 4.1%, Australians are maintaining their secondary employment. This trend is largely driven by underemployment, where workers receive fewer hours than desired from their main jobs. This is particularly evident in sectors like healthcare and social assistance, where multiple job holdings are common due to the nature of shift work and insufficient hours from a single employer.
Younger Australians, typically aged 20-24, are among the most frequent holders of multiple jobs, with women more inclined to do so than men. Conversely, older individuals, particularly those aged 60-64, are less likely to engage in second jobs. Mr. Chapman pointed out that university-aged individuals are often unable to commit to full-time work, opting instead for roles that offer night or weekend shifts, providing them with the flexibility and additional income they seek.
This trend underscores the intersection of economic necessity and employment flexibility, as Australians navigate the evolving landscape of work in response to ongoing cost-of-living challenges.
