The Evolving Working Life in South Australia’s Property Industry
The way Australians work has changed dramatically over the past few years—and South Australia’s property and real estate sector is feeling the impact.
From career change trends to longer working lives, job seekers and employers alike are navigating a market that’s more dynamic, competitive, and flexible than ever before.
A recent ‘Evolving Working Life’ report by SEEK shared the latest insights into the evolving working life, highlighted key shifts that are reshaping how we think about careers—and how businesses recruit and retain talent.
Here, we break down what this data means for the property industry in South Australia, and what job seekers and employers can do to stay ahead.
Career Crossroads: People Want More Than Just a Paycheck
A major insight from SEEK: over half of Australians (52%) regret their original career choice—and many are looking for something more meaningful.
In South Australia’s property industry, this translates into:
- More professionals exploring roles right across the industry, even if they’re coming from outside the sector
- A growing appetite for roles that offer flexibility, career growth, and real impact on local communities
For Job Seekers:
If you’ve been thinking about moving into property or real estate or pivoting within the industry (from sales to leasing, for example), you’re not alone. The key is identifying what you’re passionate about and aligning that with roles that match your lifestyle, values, and strengths.
For Employers:
It’s not just about offering a job—it’s about offering a
career path. Employees today want:
- Clarity around progression
- Training to transition into new areas (e.g. sales to property management)
- More flexibility and autonomy
To attract and retain motivated people, your business must show candidates how they can grow within your organisation—not just at their next job.
Longer Careers: What This Means for Hiring and Retention
Thanks to longer life expectancy and rising costs of living, more Australians expect to work into their 70s. According to SEEK, 38% expect to work beyond traditional retirement age—and that number is climbing.
For Job Seekers:
If you're in your 40s, 50s, or even early 60s, a long and rewarding career in property is possible. South Australia’s property and real estate landscape offers options for:
- Portfolio-style work across different roles
- Flexible hours and part-time arrangements
- High-impact positions where experience is valued (e.g. BDM, mentoring, team leadership)
Upskilling—especially in tech, client communication, and compliance—is a great way to stay competitive and confident.
For Employers:
Don’t overlook mature candidates. They often bring:
- Deep local knowledge
- High client service standards
- Strong stability and loyalty
Make sure your recruitment and onboarding processes are inclusive for all age groups, and consider creating roles that balance experience with flexibility, like part-time consultants or contract agents.
Career Mobility is Here to Stay
Property professionals are becoming more mobile moving between agencies, sectors (like sales, marketing, property management), and even between industries. In fact, half of Australians have worked across three or more industries, showing a big shift in how people view long-term careers.
For Job Seekers:
If you’re new to property or considering a lateral move within the industry, don’t wait for “perfect timing.” Use online learning, mentoring, and industry networking (like the PCA, REISA or local events) to explore opportunities and upskill.
Property and real estate particularly welcome career changers—especially those who bring customer service, finance, or project coordination experience.
For Employers:
Many of your best future employees are currently working in other industries.
Create clear entry points with:
- Realistic job ads that welcome transferable skills
- Internal training or mentorship for career changers
- Strong onboarding to support long-term retention
The Burnout Risk: Work-Life Balance Matters More Than Ever
While many Australians are prepared to work longer, they’re also concerned about what it will cost them. Burnout, stagnant pay, and lack of flexibility are real concerns. In property, where work often extends beyond 9–5, these challenges are magnified.
For Job Seekers:
Look for employers who genuinely value work-life balance—agencies and developers that offer:
- RDOs or flexible hours
- Clear boundaries around after-hours communication
- Technology that supports remote work or automation of admin tasks
You’ll not only perform better—you’ll enjoy your career more.
For Employers:
Flexibility isn’t just a perk anymore. It’s a necessity. Review your team’s work patterns. Are long hours being normalised? Are expectations clear and fair? Support your team with:
- Mental health resources
- Burnout prevention training for leaders
- Tech and systems that make workflows easier and more efficient
A well-supported team is a productive one—and a loyal one, too.
Embracing the Future of Work in SA’s Property Sector
The world of work is changing fast—and South Australia’s property industry must evolve to keep pace.
For Employers:
- Be proactive with career development and flexible work policies
- Embrace age diversity and career changers
- Streamline recruitment and onboarding for a better candidate experience
For Job Seekers:
- Reflect on what really drives you—lifestyle, growth, flexibility?
- Don’t be afraid to pivot or explore new parts of the industry
- Invest in upskilling and be open to change
The evolving working life is not just a national trend—it’s playing out locally across South Australia every day. By embracing the shift, we can build a stronger, more adaptable, and more rewarding workforce for the future right across the property industry.
Want to attract top talent or make your next career move in property or real estate?
The Edge Recruitment team is here to help.
Get in touch for personalised support or explore current opportunities.
