Latest labour force data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows the seasonally adjusted national unemployment rate fell to 4.1% in December 2025, with 65,000 additional people employed (full-time jobs accounted for the bulk of this). Youth employment was a key driver of growth, and the number of hours worked was also up, pushing Australia over 2 billion hours for the month for the first time. Participation in the labour market remains at historically high levels.
In other labour market news, Jobs and Skills Australia reported a 3.2% increase in job ads in December (seasonally adjusted). Although national job ad levels show a slight drop of 0.8% for the 12 months to December, Queensland recorded 2.3% annual growth. Job ad levels are still around 25% higher than the pre-COVID monthly average in 2019.
These figures indicate we’ve wrapped up the year in solid shape. Adding to this, the Deloitte CFO Sentiment Report (H2 2025) points to renewed business confidence, with optimism up 14% on the first half of 2025, and uncertainty falling sharply to pre-pandemic levels. It’s an interesting read and also shows cost control and operational efficiency remain front of mind, with 93% of organisations now using AI (up from 67% one year ago).
Locally in South East Queensland, we are continuing to see a steady demand across both white and blue collar roles. The market is no longer overheating but it is far from soft. While employers are planning cautiously, they remain active, with a strong focus on securing talent early and retaining key staff. Celebrating 38 years in the region, Top Office Group keeps its finger on the pulse of local labour market activity to help employers navigate changing conditions with practical on-the-ground support. Reach out to us today on 3812 2920 or email recruitment@topoffice.com.au if we can offer support.