How to attract and retain top Payroll talent in a competitive market

In today’s tight labour market, attracting and retaining skilled payroll professionals in Australia has become a strategic priority for many organisations. Payroll is no longer a back-office function—it’s a critical part of business operations, compliance, and employee experience. Yet, finding and keeping top talent in this space is increasingly challenging.

So, what does it take to stand out as an employer of choice in the payroll sector?

Understand what Payroll professionals value

Payroll professionals are detail-oriented, compliance-driven, and often underappreciated for the complexity of their work. To attract the best, employers need to offer more than just a competitive salary. Flexibility, career development, and recognition are key.

Remote and hybrid work options are now expected, especially in cities like Sydney and Melbourne, where commuting can be a barrier. Payroll teams often work to strict deadlines, so offering flexibility around non-critical periods can make a big difference.

Invest in technology and tools

Outdated systems are a major frustration for payroll professionals. Investing in modern payroll platforms—such as Ascender, ELMO, or Employment Hero—not only improves efficiency but also signals to candidates that your organisation values innovation and accuracy.

Payroll talent wants to work with systems that reduce manual errors and allow them to focus on strategic tasks. If your tech stack is lagging, it could be costing you top candidates.

Create clear career pathways

One of the most overlooked aspects of payroll recruitment is career progression. Many professionals feel stuck in transactional roles with limited visibility into advancement opportunities.

Employers who offer structured development plans, mentorship, and access to certifications (like those from the Australian Payroll Association) are more likely to retain their talent. Whether it’s moving into leadership, specialising in global payroll, or transitioning into HR or finance, showing a path forward is essential.

Build a culture of respect and recognition

Payroll teams often operate behind the scenes, yet they’re responsible for one of the most visible aspects of employee experience—getting paid correctly and on time. Recognising their contribution, especially during high-pressure periods like EOFY or compliance updates, goes a long way.

Simple gestures like spotlighting payroll achievements in company communications or celebrating milestones can foster loyalty and pride.

Partner with a specialist recruiter

In a competitive market, working with recruiters who understand the nuances of payroll roles can be a game-changer. They know where to find passive candidates, how to assess technical fit, and what motivates payroll professionals to make a move.

Partner with Frazer Jones for expert PAYROLL talent solutions

If you’re looking to build or strengthen your payroll team, consider reaching out to Adela Frydrychova at Frazer Jones. With deep expertise in payroll recruitment across Australia, Adela can help you connect with the right talent and build a team that supports your business goals.

Contact Adela Frydrychova at Frazer Jones to start the conversation.