In the dynamic landscape of employment, a notable trend has emerged: a significant rise in multi-job holding among shift workers, particularly among young female workers. As NDIS and Aged Care providers, it’s crucial to grasp the implications of this trend within the workforce and beyond.
Let’s take a look at these key points:
Shifting Demographics of Multi-Job Holders
- Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveals that part-time females are surpassing their male counterparts in both earnings and work hours, comprising 29% of employees compared to 13%.
- Millennials and Gen Z constitute the majority of shift work hours in the services sector, with Gen Z expected to become the largest workforce in 2024.
- Across major industries, including healthcare, there has been a notable increase in the number of shift workers holding multiple jobs, reflecting economic pressures and housing challenges.
Poly-Employment in Healthcare & Aged Care
- Dr. Shashi Karunanethy, Chief Economist at Geografia, highlights a phenomenon called ‘poly-employment’, particularly among young female workers in the healthcare and aged care sectors.
- Shift workers in these industries often hold multiple roles within the same sector or crossover into hospitality, indicating adaptive measures to manage financial strains.
Addressing Burnout Concerns
- While poly-employment raises concerns about burnout, overall employment levels in healthcare remain resilient, attributed to factors like pay rises and technological advancements.
- The NDIS and technological innovations are anticipated to bolster job stability and growth, potentially mitigating burnout risks in the long term.
Generational Shifts
- Millennials currently dominate work hours in healthcare, with Gen Z entering the workforce amidst economic instability.
- Gen Z’s inclination towards multi-job holding stems from navigating rising costs and seeking sustainable employment, indicating a shift in employment preferences and financial strategies.
As NDIS and Aged Care providers, understanding and adapting to these shifts in employment dynamics is essential. Recognising the diverse needs and preferences of your workforce, while also addressing potential risks of burnout, will be crucial in fostering a resilient and engaged workforce amidst evolving economic challenges.
More Information & Findings
You can access The Big Shift Report 2024 here.
