“What’s the market like?” - A common question. Let’s unpack it
According to SEEK’s June 2025 Employment Report, applications nationally, per job ad are up 16% from the same time last year. That’s a clear sign that more job seekers are actively exploring new opportunities. At the same time, turnover in some NFP sectors is now exceeding 25%, and a recent Pitcher Partners Survey (2025) shows that 71% of organisations are considering mergers or restructures to manage costs and stay sustainable.
What does this mean for organisations?
In this fast-moving market, organisations also need to act swiftly and with purpose to attract top talent. With high turnover and ongoing restructures across the sector, it’s essential to showcase your organisation’s culture, values and impact. Smart workforce planning and flexible hiring strategies aren’t just helpful, they are what set you apart from others competing in the same market; and they’re essential to building resilient teams.
key observations:
Restructures Are Ramping Up
71% percent of NFPs are considering mergers, restructures or acquisitions to control rising costs — a sharp increase from 15% in 2022 (Pitcher Partners NFP Survey, 2025). We’re seeing roles restructured, put on hold, internally filled, or created to align with new team setups.More Candidates, More Selective
Applications are up 16% (SEEK, June 2025), but candidates are choosier, especially in fundraising and philanthropy. Fast, clear recruitment processes and purposeful roles are vital to securing top talent.Salary Growth is Slowing
Wage growth plateaued at 3.4% (ABS, June 2025), with only modest increases forecast. For NFPs, even small pay bumps matter. In a tough, cost-of-living environment, fair and competitive pay remains essential.Purpose Still Matters
Meaningful, values-aligned work continues to draw talent. However, purpose alone won’t secure candidates — it must be backed by a supportive culture, clear expectations, and visible impact.Hybrid is the New Normal
Hybrid work is now the norm across most for-purpose organisations, typically involving 1-2 days working from home and spending 60%-80% of time in the office. While flexibility remains important, it’s clarity, consistency and strong team connection that truly drive engagement. With more candidates entering the market, some hiring managers are standing firm on their in-person expectations, meaning those who prefer or insist on more remote work may miss out. That said, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach: we’ve also successfully recruited for fully remote roles.Retention Starts with Recruitment
Long-term success relies on strong foundations — clear onboarding, development pathways, and alignment with values from day one. Investing here reduces turnover and builds loyalty.
What else is shaping the sector?
The global economy is also having a ripple effect, particularly in international aid and development. With changing donor priorities, shifting funding models, and economic pressures, organisations in the international space are needing to rethink strategies and adapt.
What does this mean for recruitment?
Now more than ever, People, Purpose, Impact, and thoughtful PLANNING are essential. If you’re navigating change, growth strategy or recruitment, Gembridge is here to support you every step of the way.
