The Hidden Job Market in WA: Why 70% of Roles Are Never Advertised

Here’s a stat that surprises most parents and the young people I work with: Up to 70% of jobs in Australia are never publicly advertised.

That’s not a typo. In WA, with industries like mining, healthcare, education and tech where networks are tight most roles are filled through referrals, internal promotions and word of mouth.

If your teen is relying only on Seek, Indeed or job boards, they’re already missing most of what’s out there.

The Problem:

  • Teens often think: “apply online = get a job.” That may work for Coles, Woolworths or McDonald’s with huge entry-level turnover, but not for most industries.
  • Parents assume a “good résumé” is enough. But with limited experience, young people get filtered out quickly by AI screening.
  • In WA’s close-knit industries, who you know and how you show up matters just as much as qualifications.
  • Graduate-level roles in Perth can attract 150+ applications which is costly for employers to sift through. Hiring is about reducing risk and referrals lower that risk.

Insider Insight:

So why do so many jobs never make it online?

  • Cost & speed → It’s quicker to ask trusted networks.
  • Trust → A referral carries more weight than a cold CV.
  • Retention → “Known” hires stay longer and fit better culturally.

In 2025, “who you know” doesn’t mean nepotism. It means being visible, connected and ready. And that can be learned.

At TYCC, we coach students and jobseekers to:

  • Build AI-friendly résumés that still work when passed directly to a human.
  • Develop networking skills – from career expos to casual “coffee chats.”
  • Leverage local pathways like alumni networks, sports clubs, guilds and volunteering.

Practical Takeaways for Parents:

“Where does my teen even start if they don’t know anyone?”

Here are 5 practical ways to tap into WA’s hidden job market:

1. Start local and small:

  • Connect with past teachers, TAFE lecturers or casual job supervisors.
  • WA industries are interconnected – schools, clubs and volunteer groups often open doors.

2. Build a digital presence:

  • LinkedIn isn’t just for executives – it’s where employers scout talent.
  • Encourage your teen to follow WA companies, join groups and connect with alumni.
  • A LinkedIn profile is an “online résumé” that works 24/7.

3. Get visible through experience:

  • Volunteering, internships and part-time jobs create weak ties that often lead to opportunities.
  • A weekend retail job can lead to a corporate internship if the right customer notices their work ethic.

4. Normalise outreach:

  • Teach simple scripts like: “Hi [Name], I really enjoyed your talk on [topic]. I’m exploring [field] and would love any advice you’d share.”
  • Reframe rejection: not every professional replies and that’s okay, every “no” is practice for the next “yes.”

5. Try industry-specific hacks:

  • Mining & Resources: Attend Rio Tinto, BHP or Woodside open days.
  • Healthcare: Volunteering in aged care or hospitals = insider contacts.
  • Tech & Start-ups: Perth networking events (Spacecubed, Curtin Ignition, Perth Angels).
  • Education & Community: Groups like CEAWA connect teachers, schools and staff before jobs go public.

The Bottom Line

The WA job market doesn’t just run on résumés. It runs on relationships and readiness.

If young people only apply to advertised jobs, they’ll always be playing catch-up. If they learn to build networks, they’ll unlock the 70% of opportunities most never even see.

At TYCC, we give youth (and their parents) the skills, confidence and connections to navigate this hidden market and thrive in tomorrow’s workforce.

Over to you: Have you or your teen ever landed a job through a referral, connection or “right place, right time” moment? Share your story on this post.

 

By Zach James

Visit: www.theyouthcareercounsellor.com.au

Download our FREE Youth Career Guidance Plan 2025 – The Youth Career Counsellor