Two in three Australian workers are either moving employers or intend to in the next year, an Aon survey has found. 

The study of more than 500 employees found only half think their pay is fair compared with similar roles in their industry, and staff want above-average wages and better benefits.

About one-fifth feel undervalued, while a third are seeking flexible work.

“A staggering two-thirds of employees revealed they are in the process of leaving,” Aon client director for health and benefits Damien Kelly said.

Employers should not only focus on competitive pay but should also address key factors that influence employee retention, he says.

“Against the backdrop of a relatively stable employment market in Australia, addressing the pay and benefits gap, particularly across generations, will remain a critical challenge,” Mr Kelly said.

“Flexibility remains a valued offering for employees, and the push to get employees back in the office full-time needs to be thoughtfully managed alongside factors such as pay and other benefits.” 

Aon found 29% of employees are “not at all” confident their employer is investing in training to prepare them for the future of work.

Paid time off is the most valued benefit. Aon says this reflects the growing trend of organisations offering additional leave for family planning, gender-specific requirements and bereavement.  

“Couple this with the popularity of the hybrid working model in Australia, and the push to get employees back in the office might be slow and cautious,” Mr Kelly said.

The top five valued benefits for employees are paid time off, work-life balance programs, career development, retirement savings, and remote and/or flexible work.