Australia’s procurement job market was dominated by an increased volume of contractors during the first quarter of the year, building upon a strong end to 2025, while the market for permanent roles slowed slightly, according to new data.
In a new market update, specialist procurement and supply chain recruitment agency, Cozens Mabel, described the overall landscape as “cautious and employer-led” at volume level, while still remaining “candidate short” for top-tier talent.
“After a strong end to 2025, the market for permanent roles has slowed slightly over the first quarter of 2026. Demand hasn’t disappeared; it has simply become more targeted and value-driven,” said Cozens Mabel Director Ilsa Cozens.
“In practice, this is resulting in fewer ‘nice-to-have’ hires, increased scrutiny on the ROI of each role and longer, more considered hiring processes.”
Cozens explained that the biggest challenge for candidates right now is the overall hiring process, with many experiencing extended offer timelines, drawn-out interview stages and delays in post-interview feedback, which is leading to disengagement.
On the contractor side, a number of factors are contributing to growth, including sizeable project-based work, with contractor demand set to remain strong for the foreseeable future in the energy, utilities, construction and infrastructure sectors.
Candidate appetite and economic uncertainty are also playing a part, while employers are specifically looking to tap into specialist skills.
“Areas like AI and data analytics have become a crucial part of procurement functions, but many organisations have struggled to keep up with these skillsets across their workforce,” said Cozens.
“Likewise, many organisations lack the skills, experience or capacity to execute planned procurement uplift programs without bringing in additional resources.
“Skilled and readily available contracting talent across all levels can provide an immediate solution to these challenges without the long-term commitments associated with FTEs.”
When it comes to work preferences, the market is starting to shift, with both permanent hires and contractors more willing to spend time in the office or on-site than in the last 12 months, although flexible working remains the overall preference.
The most common approach, reported by Cozens Mabel, is working two or three days per week on-site or in the office, or on a rotation – for example, one week on, one week off.
Connect with Cozens Mabel to learn more about available contractors, permanent procurement professionals and international candidates.
