56) WA has a desperate request of IT workers

Sharp growth of resources in Western Australia has resulted in higher demand for qualified workers and increased funds for contracted labor. This trend has created a labor shortage, as Western Australia must now quickly fill professional IT jobs in order to complete software outsourcing projects that are estimated to be worth multi-millions of dollars.

In a recent report by Candle, an IT recruiter, contractor rates per hour have increased by 23% just in the past year. This rapid growth has now pushed Western Australia’s IT contractor market to be comparable with Canberra, the number one ranking Australian city in terms of being the most expensive for IT contractor employment.

Jane Bianchini, Candle’s COO, has mentioned that the increase in both resources and rates have created an influx of additional technology workers whom are eager for a chance at contracts that would improve their earnings. Ms. Bianchini also affirmed that the current strategy for the IT users in the market is not to simply hire people who can provide the best IT solutions, but rather those who are capable of supplying the most functional people to ensure a project reaches its full potential.

In response to this trend, those seeking to fill job positions are starting to realize and appreciate the financial savings and elasticity of labor that comes with contractors as well.

Candle also reported that full time IT staffers are beginning to seek greater job flexibility and mobility, and expects that around half of current full time IT professionals will change jobs within the next 5 years.

Through detailed analysis, Candle also estimated that the market has seen a 19% increase in demand for full time IT professionals just in the past year.