How to attract and retain top tech talent: 4 key engagement tips

As the tech talent landscape shifts in 2025, the shortage of skilled professionals across Australia has eased somewhat, but the demand for tech expertise remains strong.

With the Australian Government aiming to create 1.2 million tech-related jobs by 2030, there is still a clear need for a robust workforce in the sector.

As a result, businesses are increasingly recognising the importance of strengthening their efforts to attract and retain top tech talent.

“I have long been an advocate for our sector and believe the Australian tech sector is one of the most dynamic and ambitious seen anywhere in the world,” Damien Kassabgi CEO of Tech Council of Australia (TCA) shares, remaining optimistic.

Attraction and retention strategies remain a critical focus, and these are some of the major tactics employers can use to both attract and retain talent.

1. Providing flexible working options

A survey conducted by HR software company Rippling indicates that 57% of Australian businesses are less inclined to hire candidates who are not willing to work onsite full-time. However, for many tech employees, flexibility is a key factor in job satisfaction.

As the demand for work-life balance grows, employees are seeking roles that offer autonomy in where and how they work, with remote and hybrid options often being non-negotiable.

Companies that fail to offer such flexibility may struggle to retain their workforce, especially as younger workers prioritise flexibility over traditional office structures. Enforcing a full-time office mandate could risk driving top talent to competitors who offer more adaptable work arrangements.

Consider implementing policy frameworks that balance business needs with employee flexibility preferences to create a win-win arrangement. Embracing hybrid models allows you to attract talent in a candidate-short market and keep your employees engaged, without sacrificing flexibility for those who value it most.

2. Offering comprehensive benefits packages

To attract and retain top tech talent, companies must offer comprehensive benefits packages that go beyond the basics. In Australia’s tech job market, employees are looking for more than just a paycheck – they want benefits that enhance their work-life balance and wellbeing.

Take Canva, for example. The company’s benefits package, valued at around US$7,914 per employee, includes everything from daily meals to gym memberships, ensuring their team is supported both inside and outside of the office, reports Nucamp.

Beyond Canva's approach, effective benefits packages typically include health insurance, wellness programs, retirement plans, and flexible work options tailored to your workforce's priorities.

Providing an attractive benefits package like Canva helps companies stand out and demonstrates a commitment to supporting their employees' overall happiness and success.

3. Investing in employee development

Investing in employee development is crucial for gaining better engagement with their teams and retaining top tech talent. When companies prioritise growth and provide opportunities for learning and advancement, employees are more likely to stay.

This investment can take many forms, such as training programs, workshops, mentorship, or access to certifications that enhance skills. Companies can further boost retention by implementing upskilling initiatives and collaborating with educational institutions to cultivate future talent, particularly in emerging technologies like AI and machine learning.

The Tech Council of Australia's latest research identifies artificial intelligence as the most influential technological trend for 2025, reports OpenGov Asia. One-third of industry leaders consider AI the greatest opportunity for businesses in the coming year.

If companies want to ride the wave of change brought by the AI boom, upskilling their current workforce presents a dual benefit: it helps retain existing talent while also positioning the company to gain a share of the growing AI market.

4. Building a strong employer brand

Building a strong employer brand and engaging in proactive recruitment strategies are crucial for attracting top-tier tech talent. According to a survey conducted by LinkedIn, 75% of job seekers evaluate an employer's brand before applying for a job.

Businesses can differentiate themselves in the highly competitive tech industry by highlighting your exciting projects, unique technology, and progressive work culture.

Proactively reaching out to skilled professionals through platforms like LinkedIn and industry networks, rather than waiting for them to apply, ensures that companies can tap into a broader talent pool. This approach positions businesses as leaders in the tech space, attracting candidates passionate about shaping the future of technology.

By implementing these four key strategies – offering flexibility, comprehensive benefits, development opportunities, and building a strong employer brand – Australian tech companies can navigate the talent landscape more effectively in 2025 and beyond.

Download the Michael Page Technology Salary Guide for the full list of salaries in the tech sector in Australia.