“We can’t find good people.” You’ve probably heard it said about recruitment in regional areas.
But there’s something many businesses don’t consider – there’s an entire pool of skilled, experienced professionals, particularly women, who want to work, but can’t fit into the traditional full-day, office-based roles. And it’s not because they don’t want to.
Why the Childcare Shortage Matters for Regional Businesses
In regional areas across Australia, childcare shortages are biting hard. Places are limited, waiting lists are long and the cost can make full-time work financially impossible for many families.
Add in school drop-offs, pick-ups and other challenges that come with regional living, and you start to see why even the most capable candidates might not be able to take a standard 9–5 role.
This doesn’t mean they’re any less committed or capable. We’re talking about former managers, technical experts and senior professionals – people who’ve delivered projects, built businesses, and led teams. The kind of people who add enormous value wherever they land.
How Regional Businesses Can Tap Into This Talent Pool
Regional businesses have a unique edge. We already understand the realities of distance, school hours and family life. By rethinking the way roles are structured, we can tap into talent that bigger, more rigid organisations overlook. This might mean:
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Offering genuine flexibility in hours and location
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Considering job-share or part-time arrangements for senior roles
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Utilising contracted support to get expert help for a project, without taking on a full-time employee
The Business Benefits of Adapting to the Childcare Shortage
This isn’t about “accommodating working parents” – it’s about removing barriers so great people can do great work. Businesses who do this aren’t just filling roles; they’re:
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Attracting top-tier talent they’d otherwise miss
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Gaining high-level capability without the full-time overhead
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Getting ahead while others are resisting change
Leading the Way in Regional Business
The childcare shortage is a community issue. But it’s also a business opportunity for those willing to lead.
By embracing modern ways of working, we’re not just helping local families. We’re building stronger, more resilient businesses and communities.
