Confidence is rising in the insurance and financial services sectors, with reports showing almost half the employers in the industry are looking to increase their permanent staff levels over the next three months.

Recruitment specialist Hudson last week released its latest report into Australia’s employment expectations showing 40.9% of employers in insurance and financial services are looking to increase permanent staff, with an increase in demand in financial advisory, risk management and compliance.

The report says staff levels were cut during the global economic crisis, but confidence is now beginning to grow, with more staff needed to deliver growth.

“While employer confidence is strong, the result this quarter is nevertheless dampened by caution in global financial markets, uncertainty around the outcome of the federal elections and apprehension over regulatory change,” the company says.

Hiring intentions for insurance and financial services in SA and Victoria are expected to be strong, with 44.1% and 50.4% respectively of employers stating a need for more permanent staff.

NSW will also see a reasonable rise in permanent staff with 34.8% of employers planning to increase their staffing levels.

Hudson’s market prediction shows an expected increase in demand for financial planners and insurance specialists.