Cecilia White, HR Consultant and Director at Perks People Solutions explores the evolving expectations of both new and existing staff, offering actionable strategies for employers to adapt and thrive in today’s competitive environment.

The discussion covers how to become an employer of choice by focusing on organisational culture, values, and leadership, and highlights the importance of having robust HR policies in place.

1. Ongoing Talent Shortage. Finding high quality staff is increasingly difficult across the health sector, with heightened competition and rising salary expectations, especially among early career professionals

2. Evolving Workplace Laws and Compliance. Employers face more complex workplace relations and legal obligations, including new psychosocial hazard and sexual harassment laws that require proactive, preventative measures

3. Health Sector-Specific Challenges. The health sector faces unique issues such as the ‘brain drain’, competition with public sector and interstate salaries, and difficulty accessing reliable salary benchmarking data

4. Burnout as a Major Risk. Burnout is a significant concern for health professionals, driven by long hours, high stress, and workplace pressures, making retention a challenge for employers

5. Flexibility is Essential. Flexible work arrangements - including four-day work weeks, flexible hours, additional leave, and work-from-home options - are now expected and can help attract and retain staff

6. Leadership and Culture Matter. Strong, emotionally intelligent leadership and a positive, inclusive workplace culture are critical for staff engagement and long-term retention

7. Building a Strong Employee Value Proposition. Employers should define and promote their unique value proposition, focusing on culture, compensation, flexibility, and career development opportunities to stand out as an employer of choice

8. Importance of Solid HR Policies. Clear, compliant, and contemporary HR policies signal professionalism and help attract quality candidates while supporting a positive workplace environment

Cecilia White is a Human Resources Consultant and Director at Perks People Solutions - a leading provider of outsourced HR and recruitment services. Cecilia has 25 years’ experience in human resources and employment law.

Perks People Solutions

(08) 8273 7804

[email protected]

www.ppsconsulting.com.au

Host: Wallace Long

Guest: Cecilia White

Tan J et al. (2025) Trends in retention and attrition in nine regulated health professions in Australia. Australian Health Review 49, AH24268. Doi:10.1071/AH24268

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This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not constitute professional advice. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or applicability of the content. You should consult your professional advisors for specific advice relating to your situation.