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If you’ve tried hiring tradespeople, machine operators, or general labourers in Canberra lately, you already know how tough it’s become.
One week someone’s keen, the next they disappear. The job market is tight, unreliable, and turnover is high.
Labour hire can be a smart solution. But the truth is, not all recruitment partners are equal. Choosing the wrong one can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.
Here’s what to look out for if you want reliable, skilled workers without the stress.
The ACT is seeing a steady rise in construction, infrastructure, and technical trades projects. From civil works to commercial fit-outs, demand for skilled labour is often greater than supply.
Labour hire gives local businesses a way to stay flexible while keeping projects moving.
Some of the benefits include:
Of course, these benefits only apply if you’re working with the right agency.
Too many agencies still operate like they did a decade ago.
They send through resumes without proper checks.
They stop answering the phone after the worker starts.
They don’t build relationships - they just fill jobs.
This often results in:
At HJ Recruitment, we take a different approach. We’re here to build partnerships, not just fill seats.
If you’re based in Canberra and want to work with an agency you can trust, here’s what to look for:
Make sure they understand your trade. Whether you’re in HVAC, construction, or manufacturing, the recruiter should know what you’re talking about.
A good agency won’t just send the first available person. They’ll check for reliability, skill level, and attitude — so you’re not left cleaning up a mess later.
Agencies with a real network in Canberra are more likely to know who’s actually available, who’s worth hiring, and how to move quickly.
When you need someone, you need them now. You should expect quality resumes within 1–2 days and a recruiter who actually picks up the phone.
A Canberra-based commercial fit-out company came to us after being let down by another provider.
They’d been sent three workers. Only one turned up.
We replaced the team within 48 hours with two qualified shopfitters and a reliable skilled labourer.
All three were screened, briefed, and on-site ready to go.
The project was back on track by the end of the week - no delays, no penalties, and no overtime blowout.
If you’re tired of unreliable workers and slow responses, we can help.
At HJ Recruitment, we specialise in skilled trades, construction, and manufacturing recruitment across Canberra and the surrounding region. Whether you need one person or a whole crew, we’ve got you covered.
Curious about how we work? Take a look at our About page.
Or explore our services like Permanent Recruitment and Apprenticeships.
