We’re hosting an ENGAGE-exclusive webinar to share our latest hiring market updates across Australia and New Zealand, and what they mean for contractors heading into 2026.

Hosted by JP Browne, Steve Jobson, and Sophia Parrelli, this session will unpack what we’re seeing on the ground — from where demand is lifting, to which skills are commanding attention, and how contractors can stay competitive in a more selective market.

We’ll cover:

• Predictions for the 2026 contract market across AU and NZ
• The hottest skills and capabilities in demand
• Regional hotspots and where opportunities are emerging
• How AI, infrastructure and transformation work are reshaping contract roles
• Practical ways to position yourself ahead of the competition

We’ll also leave time for a live Q&A, where you can submit your questions and hear directly from our recruitment experts.

Whether you’re actively contracting, considering your next move, or simply want a clearer view of what’s ahead, this session will give you a grounded, practical update on the 2026 market.

Session information

Date: Thursday, 12th March

Time: 12:00pm AEDT // 2:00pm NZDT

Where: Online via Zoom

Your Talent experts

JP Browne

JP is a Practice Manager from Auckland who has worked in tech recruitment for over 20 years. JP specialises in recruiting for C-Suite and leadership teams as well as project transformation.

Music is a big passion of JP’s and his vinyls have pride of place in his office. When not listening to music, he’s learning the piano and dreams of taking up the bagpipes again, and when the weather allows he’ll be doing a very average job of playing golf.

Steve Jobson

Steve is an Account Director in our Canberra office with over 26 years’ recruitment experience. He specialises in delivering ICT capability across Defence, the APS and ACT Government, with deep expertise in cleared recruitment and secure project environments.

Outside of work, Steve’s interests lean toward the action and espionage genre — his bookshelf is stacked with Tom Clancy, Jack Carr, Brad Thor, Vince Flynn, Gregg Hurwitz and Mark Greaney. When he’s not immersed in a spy thriller, you’ll likely find him on the golf course or at the driving range.

Sophia Parrelli

Sophia is an Account Executive in our Sydney team with over five years’ recruitment experience. She partners with a range of corporate clients across technology, transformation, project services, engineering, and broader corporate functions.

When she’s not talking hiring strategy, Sophia can be found attempting pottery (with mixed results) or embracing her newest and most demanding role: full-time dog mum to her chaotic seven-month-old puppy, Bernie.

Find out more about contracting at Talent.