GLOBAL HIRING / RECRUITMENT PROCESS OUTSOURCING / VIRTUAL ASSISTANTS & MANAGED OFF SHORE HIRING
As businesses across Australia embrace lifelong learning as a key to success, many are also looking beyond domestic hiring to secure the talent they need. The latest data from AHRI’s Quarterly Australian Work Outlook (March 2025) reveals a growing trend: 60% of organisations plan to recruit overseas workers this year. But is this a sustainable strategy, or just a quick fix? And what should employers consider before expanding their hiring internationally.
The Skills Shortage and Employee Retention Challenge
Employers are struggling not only to attract skilled candidates but also to retain them. AHRI reports that 34% of organisations experience an annual employee turnover of 20% or more. The primary drivers? Excessive workloads (26%) and unappealing roles (21%).
Skills gaps within an organisation can create a cycle of turnover and knowledge loss. As AHRI’s CEO Sarah McCann-Bartlett points out, “Statistical analysis shows the greater the skills gap in an organisation, the higher the employee turnover rate.” This highlights the importance of both hiring new talent and upskilling the existing workforce.
Why Employers Are Looking Overseas
A shortage of qualified local candidates remains the top reason for international recruitment. AHRI data also shows that 30% of organisations cite a lack of experienced local talent, while 28% perceive overseas workers as having a stronger work ethic, and 25% believe they align better with organisational values.
The government has made overseas hiring easier, too. Recent updates to Australia’s migration system aim to streamline employer-sponsored visas and provide clearer pathways to permanent residency, supporting long-term workforce sustainability.
What Employers Need to Consider Before Hiring Overseas Talent
Hiring from abroad can be transformative, but employers must navigate several key considerations.
- Employment Contracts and Compliance
A recent article on HRM Online, HR’s Guide to Updated Migration Laws, highlights the importance of legal compliance when hiring internationally. Charles Power, Partner at Holding Redlich, advises that employment contracts should specify the employer’s place of business and the governing employment laws to avoid legal ambiguity. - Taxation and Superannuation
Navigating international tax laws can be complex. Employers must determine whether they are required to make superannuation contributions for overseas workers or if alternative income protection insurance applies. - Employer of Record (EOR) Services
One way to simplify international hiring is to use an Employer of Record (EOR). These third-party providers manage payroll, tax compliance, and employment law requirements in the employee’s local jurisdiction, reducing legal risks for Australian companies.
The Long-Term Strategy: Balancing Overseas Hiring with Workforce Development
While bringing in skilled workers from abroad helps fill immediate gaps, it should be part of a broader workforce strategy. The AHRI report highlights an encouraging trend: 82% of employers are actively investing in upskilling their existing teams, up from 77% last year.
McCann-Bartlett emphasises the importance of this dual approach: “Overseas workers have represented a substantial addition to the labour pool, but long-term resilience depends on upskilling and training the domestic workforce.”
Final Thoughts
The shift towards overseas hiring reflects the reality of Australia’s labour market. However, employers must balance this strategy with strong retention efforts, legal compliance, and a commitment to upskilling. By getting it right, businesses can future-proof their workforce while minimising the risks associated with global hiring.
How We Can Help
At The Recruitment People, we offer tailored global hiring solutions that help businesses expand their workforce with confidence:
✅ Global Talent Acquisition – Through our NPAworldwide network, we connect you with top professionals across borders, ensuring the right fit for your organisation.
✅ Virtual Assistants & Managed Teams – Need skilled overseas staff without the hassle of direct employment? We provide VAs and dedicated teams employed by us, ensuring compliance while giving your business access to talented professionals abroad.
✅ Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) – Our expert recruiters in South Africa act as an extension of your team, managing the hiring process efficiently and cost-effectively.
Want to explore how global hiring can work for your business? Learn more about our solutions here.
SOURCE – https://www.hrmonline.com.au/section/featured/key-considerations-when-hiring-overseas-workers/”