According to a new survey, the majority of workers in Western Australia anticipate receiving a pay rise in 2026, yet many are reluctant to request one from their employers. The findings highlight a disconnect between expectations and proactive negotiation among employees.
The survey, conducted by a leading recruitment firm, revealed that over 60% of WA workers believe they will receive a salary increase within the next two years. However, less than 30% plan to initiate a conversation about pay with their managers. This hesitation may stem from concerns about job security or discomfort with negotiation.
Economic analysts note that the labour market remains tight in WA, particularly in sectors like mining and construction, which could support wage growth. Despite this, many workers appear to prefer waiting for employers to offer raises rather than advocating for themselves.
The trend mirrors broader national patterns, where wage growth has been slow to keep pace with inflation. Experts suggest that employees who do not ask for raises may miss out on potential increases, especially in industries facing skill shortages.
