Mums, Boomers could be the key to fixing the chronic worker shortage

According to a recent report, mothers and older Australians could be major pillars in stifling the ongoing chronic worker shortage that is affecting a number of businesses across NSW.

Business NSW’s State of Skills 2024 report has found and claimed that mothers and older Australians hold the keys to future prosperity amid a chronic worker shortage, thus prompting calls for better childcare and easing ageist restrictions for over-60s who are looking to re-enter the workforce.

According to the report’s data, 77 per cent of employers are struggling to recruit needed staff, with close to 40 per cent predicting negative impacts will soon rear their head if the situation is not addressed.

Daniel Hunter, chief executive at NSW Business, stated that the report showed a growing trend of businesses hiring older workers and mothers to address these shortages.

“Many of our members are actively tapping these often-overlooked talent pools as a strategic response to the tight labour market,” Hunter said.

“With skilled workers in short supply, businesses are turning to these groups to fill gaps, drive efficiencies and secure our future prosperity.”

“We must address the barriers that prevent them from joining or rejoining the workforce – chiefly, the lack of accessible, affordable childcare. For many parents, finding reliable childcare is a major hurdle to returning to work. Without adequate support, businesses are missing out on a skilled and dedicated workforce that could drive efficiencies and growth.”

Hunter and Business NSW urge both state and federal governments to invest in childcare funding to offer parents the opportunity to return to work while simultaneously supporting early childhood development.

Business NSW also wants the government to double the age pension work bonus to $600 per fortnight, which equates to $15,600 annually.

“Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are grappling with significant challenges in attracting and retaining skilled workers,” Hunter said.

“This shortage is affecting everything from daily operations to long-term growth, resulting in higher workloads for existing staff, lower productivity, and difficulties meeting customer demands.

“There is an incredible amount of unmet capacity within NSW’s 860,000-plus businesses. If we don’t realise our economic potential, we face a grim future.”

These changes could allow for what is often an overlooked sector of the workforce a real opportunity to get back on the tools while giving the talent pool a much-needed injection of skilled and experienced workers.

Kace O'Neill

Kace O'Neill is a Graduate Journalist for HR Leader. Kace studied Media Communications and Maori studies at the University of Otago, he has a passion for sports and storytelling.