As living expenses climb faster than wages, more Australians are turning to second and even third jobs to stay afloat.
More People Juggling Extra Work
ABS data shows that in March 2025, 963,100 Australians held more than one job, representing 6.5% of all employed people. While slightly down from the record reached in late 2024, the rate has stayed higher than pre-pandemic levels, indicating that taking on extra work has become a sustained reality for many.
News.com.au recently reported that competition for work has intensified, with more Australians applying for jobs on SEEK and re-entering the workforce after time away. The trend is being driven in part by people searching for additional income streams to help manage rising costs.
Cost of Living as a Catalyst
For many households, everyday essentials are eating up a greater share of income. ABC has told the stories of Australians clocking 80-hour weeks, skipping meals, and still struggling to cover rent, groceries, and bills. In these cases, second jobs are less about career ambition and more about basic survival.
Workers say the extra hours can be exhausting, but without them, they risk falling behind on payments or going into debt. The pressure is particularly acute for women and younger workers, with ABS figures showing both groups more likely to be among the country’s multiple job holders.
Beyond the Paycheck
While higher wages remain the top motivator for taking on additional work, some also seek a change of pace or a role that feels more meaningful. However, in the current climate, the majority of second-job decisions are shaped by necessity rather than personal growth.
Broader Issue
The rise in multiple job holding reflects deeper economic strains. Wage growth has not kept pace with inflation, forcing many to supplement their income just to maintain their standard of living. Employers and policymakers may soon have to grapple with the long-term effects of a workforce that is stretched thin, as more Australians split their time and energy across several roles.