June 3, 2025
As Australia’s major cities expand at breakneck speed, the demand for skilled facilities managers has never been higher. These professionals aren’t just keeping the lights on, they’re playing a vital role in ensuring that complex commercial and residential properties run smoothly, maintaining safety standards and protecting asset value in today’s increasingly advanced buildings.
The importance of such skilled professionals who are equipped with both technical expertise and strategic leadership abilities can’t be overstated. Not only do facilities managers streamline operations, but they can also help reduce costs, improve safety and increase the overall value of a facility.
So where can you find such skilled individuals? Here’s what you need to know about the market right now.
Snapshot of the Australian facilities management market
Considering that our main cities are going through a major growth spurt – with Sydney’s population alone expected to hit 6.6 million by 2036 (Australian Bureau of Statistics) – a wave of new commercial, residential and mixed-use projects is upon us, requiring skilled facilities managers to oversee safety, maintenance and operational efficiency.
In fact, the facilities management sector plays a vital role in Australia’s economy, contributing more than $32 billion to the nation’s GDP annually (Business View Oceania) and expected to reach $91 billion in value by 2034 (Research and Markets).
Sectors with high safety and efficiency needs, such as healthcare, retail and commercial real estate, are set to see a surge in demand for facilities management in Australia – which will increase competition for the best professionals in the market.
Why do organisations increasingly need specialised facilities managers?
Clearly, there’s a demand for facilities managers in Australia, but why are they important?
From ensuring compliance with health and safety standards to keeping building systems running effectively, facilities management professionals help prevent costly downtime and maintain property values. In commercial spaces, they’re the ones making sure operational systems work, security protocols are followed and emergency plans are ready to go.
Here are just some of the key benefits of hiring a facilities manager:
To stay compliant with health and safety
Facilities managers make sure that all parts of a building – like fire alarms, emergency exits and ventilation – follow health and safety rules. They regularly check and maintain these systems to ensure the safety of everyone in the building and reduce the chance of accidents.
To maintain operational efficiency
One of the key responsibilities of facilities managers is overseeing the smooth operation of essential building systems such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing, and security systems. They proactively coordinate routine maintenance and address malfunctions to reduce downtime, damage and disruptions.
To protect property value
A well-maintained property better retains its value over time, and facilities managers contribute to this by ensuring regular upkeep, organising preventive maintenance and managing strategic renovations. For commercial real estate owners and property developers, this means their investments are protected, and properties remain attractive to tenants and buyers alike.
To reduce costs
Skilled facilities managers are able to analyse energy use, maintenance routines and procurement processes to look at ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality or safety. For example, they might recommend installing energy-efficient lighting, smart thermostats or solar panels to reduce utility bills.
Key challenges in the Australian facilities management market
As Australia’s facilities management sector continues to expand, organisations are encountering several challenges that impact their operations and strategic planning. These include persistent labour shortages, escalating operational costs and evolving regulatory requirements.
Labour shortages
The facilities management sector is currently facing significant challenges due to a shortage of skilled labour. This shortage is particularly acute in trades essential to facilities management, such as electricians, carpenters and HVAC technicians, with 50% of occupations within the Technicians and Trades Workers category assessed as being in national shortage (Jobs and Skills Australia).
Rising operational costs
Operational expenses in the facilities management sector are on the rise, driven by factors such as increased wages and higher superannuation rates. These cost increases have meant that there’s a need for more efficient resource management and strategic planning to maintain profitability and service quality.
Evolving regulatory requirements
The regulatory landscape for facilities management in Australia is becoming increasingly complex. Updates to the Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations, including new requirements for managing psychosocial hazards and ensuring safe work environments, demand greater attention from facilities managers.
How to find a great facilities manager in a tight market
Hiring the right facilities manager isn’t just about filling a role – it’s about finding someone who can effectively represent your business, work well with clients and seamlessly integrate into your team.
But in a tight labour market, how do you ensure you’re connecting with the best talent?
Leverage specialist recruiters with industry expertise
When the market is competitive, working with a recruiter who specialises in facilities management can make all the difference. Generalist recruiters may not have the in-depth industry knowledge necessary to pinpoint candidates with the right skills and experience.
In fact, our research shows that candidates placed through specialist recruitment agencies are 30% more likely to stay in their role beyond six months compared to those sourced through job ads or generalist recruiters (TalentWeb). This is crucial, considering the costs associated with high turnover in these kinds of senior roles. A strong recruitment strategy should focus on identifying candidates who are not only skilled but also a great cultural fit, increasing the likelihood of long-term retention.
Need a specialist recruiter? Let’s talk
Here at TalentWeb, we have over 13 years of experience in property and facilities management recruitment and we’re one of only two agencies in Sydney with a dedicated facilities management recruitment consultant. This level of expertise ensures that when you partner with us, you’re not just getting any candidate – you’re getting the best candidate.
If you’re ready to find the right facilities manager to reduce your costs, protect your property value and help you stay compliant, let’s talk. Click here to connect with our in-house facilities management recruitment expert Donny Mudiasa.
