Whether in Australia or Papua New Guinea, job seekers today are more informed, selective, and intentional than ever before. The message to employers across both countries is clear:
“Improve the hiring experience — or risk losing talent.”
We’ve gathered insights from Australian research and real feedback from job seekers in PNG to highlight the most important shifts in candidate expectations. Here’s what you need to know — and how to take action.
1. Security Is the New Top Priority
Across both Australia and PNG, job seekers increasingly prioritise job security over perks and benefits — especially among Gen X, Boomers, and experienced professionals.
✅ Action: Clearly promote long-term roles, permanent positions, and career stability in your job ads and interviews.
🔗 Here’s what job seekers wish you’d stop getting wrong – Indeed
2. Keep the Process Short and Simple
A complex application process is a turn-off — in both countries. In Australia, nearly half of candidates abandon lengthy applications. In PNG, limited internet access and time constraints add extra friction.
✅ Action: Simplify online forms, avoid drawn-out processes, and aim for no more than two interviews. Communicate clear timelines.
🔗 5 Ways to Speed Up the Hiring Process – Indeed
3. Stop Ghosting Candidates
Ghosting is one of the top complaints in both markets. In Australia, 88% of job seekers have experienced it. In PNG, silence from employers after applications is all too common.
✅ Action: Follow up at every stage — even a courteous rejection shows respect and protects your employer brand.
🔗 Why Candidate Experience Matters – Indeed
4. Be Transparent About Salary
Job seekers everywhere want to know what they’ll earn. In Australia, 72% of applicants want pay info upfront. PNG candidates also value clarity, especially in a market where cost of living is rising.
✅ Action: Share salary ranges or at least outline the benefits on offer. Transparency builds trust.
🔗 Should You Include Salary in Job Ads? – Indeed
5. Offer Growth, Not Just a Job
Younger job seekers — Millennials and Gen Z in particular — are looking beyond a paycheck. They want roles that offer learning, development, and future potential.
✅ Action: Promote upskilling, mentorship, training, and internal mobility in your job descriptions. Candidates want a career path, not just a position.
🔗 Attract Candidates Who Want to Grow – Indeed
Smarter Hiring Starts Here
Whether you’re hiring in Australia, Papua New Guinea, or both, great talent isn’t looking for flashy perks — they’re looking for security, clarity, respect, and growth.
📢 Post a transparent, trust-building job ad
📥 Download our regional hiring insights guide
📩 Talk to a recruitment expert
Adapted for Australia and Papua New Guinea job markets by Head Hunters Recruitment & PNGJOBSEEK
Original source: 👉 Indeed – Here’s What Job Seekers Wish You’d Stop Getting Wrong
