It’s Not Just You: The Tech and IT Job Market Is Changing

Navigating the seas of the IT job market in Australia can feel choppy right now. Although the tech sector continues to grow, it might seem there are fewer opportunities and even more job seekers to compete with. However, even though things are changing in tech recruitment, there’s still a lot to be positive about.

In this article, Emanate Recruitment offers advice for job seekers in the IT job market in Australia. Plus, gain valuable insights from Emanate’s National Managing Director, Rob Millington, on hiring trends in our sector and how to stand out as a candidate. 

How has recruitment changed for tech job seekers?

You’re not imagining things; the market has slowed a little. In fact, according to the Australian Government’s latest figures, there were 5% fewer job ads in February this year. With factors such as economic caution, fuel security, and working from home coming into play, it’s natural for things to feel uncertain.

Interestingly, the IT job market has also shifted in favour of employers in 2026, Rob explains. “Most roles in this sector receive around 185 applicants on average. Clients have a lot more choice today, and there are more candidates actively looking for work.” 

Thankfully, it’s not all doom and gloom. We’re also seeing salary increases, booming cities, and high-demand skills within tech and IT. As a job seeker in this competitive market, knowing what’s happening can put you a step ahead.

Current tech job market trends in Australia

Just as technology evolves, so does the job market we operate in. Here are a few tech recruitment trends defining the year so far.

Salaries in 2026 vs 2025

Salaries can offer valuable insight into how the market is performing. Using data from Emanate Technology’s 2026 Salary & Rate Guide and comparing it to our last report, we found some interesting trends in tech:

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  Some roles’ salaries are increasing faster than others. For example, Data Analysts in ACT are now earning $110,000 a year at the starting range, up from $80,000 in 2025. 
• Sydney remains the location with the highest tech and IT salaries due to higher demand and more opportunities. On the flip side, Adelaide and Brisbane, with lower demand, offer lower average salaries. 
• The highest paying roles in IT currently include Cloud Solutions Architect, Principal Engineer, IT Security Advisor, Chief Information Security Advisor, and Engineering GM, VP, or Director.

An increase in recruitment process time

“Permanent roles used to take around five to six weeks for a decision to be made,” Rob says. “Now, it’s more like 8-10 weeks. For contract roles, it’s still fairly quick at a 24 to 48 hour turnaround, but it can stretch out to a week now.”

So, why the change? Nowadays, it’s common to have more checks, background processes, and due diligence, all of which slow down the hiring process. Although AI can assist with administrative tasks, there’ll always be the need for human interaction in recruitment. 

Entry-level barriers to the IT job market

Landing an entry-level role can feel harder in Australia’s IT job market in 2026. “There’s a lot more focus on automation now, and AI is taking over a lot of the junior-level work,” Rob explains. “With work like testing and basic tasks being reduced, there are fewer opportunities at the entry level.” 

High-demand sectors and skills

In 2026, we’re seeing a split in the market between high and low-demand skills. “The more crowded areas are software development, product roles, and mid-level engineering roles,” Rob says. “However, the highest demand is coming from cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, data and AI, and platform engineering roles. 

Sector-wise, there’s increased demand for qualified tech professionals across defence, healthcare, and financial services.

How to stay top of mind as a candidate

It can feel daunting to be a job seeker in 2026, but there are ways you can stand out. These tips from Emanate Technology can improve your chances of landing your ideal role.

• Stay in touch with recruiters: Working with a specialised tech recruiter is the best way to connect to roles in your area, but you need to remain visible. Most consultants work with many candidates, so make regular contact to remind them of your skills and availability and to check in on opportunities. 
• Keep your details up to date: Completed a new course? Remembered a skill you mastered on a previous project? Keep your CV up to date with the most relevant information. Don’t forget to update your portfolio and LinkedIn, too.
• Upskill: “There’s still strong demand for niche talent,” Rob says. “If you have specialised skills in areas like cybersecurity, AI, or infrastructure, you’re in a good position.” With loads of online tech and IT courses available today, it’s easy to upskill while you’re waiting for the ideal opportunity to arise.
• Understand the market: The more you know about the IT and tech market—especially what recruiters are looking for— the better prepared you are to meet it. Stay on top of trends with our Candidate Insights, and set up a Google Alert for technology recruitment news in Australia. 
• Be patient: “There’s definitely a bit of economic caution at the moment, which is impacting hiring decisions,” Rob says. Add to that the increase in processes and hiring timelines, and it can now take even longer for employers to make a final decision. Try your best to be patient yet proactive.

Fortunately, Australia’s $167 billion tech sector has grown by 80% over the past five years. So, although the IT job market might feel uncertain right now, your skills will remain in high demand.

Get support in an uncertain market 

Need help navigating Australia’s IT job market in 2026? We know the ins and outs of the tech sector. Get in touch with Emanate for tailored advice and connections to your next opportunity.