IT pros go extra mile for dream job

Australian IT contractors are willing to travel overseas for the right job, according to a nationwide survey of more than 1000 industry workers.

The survey, conducted by IT recruiters Candle ICT, found 51 percent of those questioned would relocate to another country for their ideal role. A further 22 percent of respondents would move interstate, with 27 percent who wouldn't consider uprooting at all.
 
Trevor Taylor, national manager at Candle ICT, attributes the trend to the quality of specialist, training-focused IT jobs on offer, as well as the competitive salaries rewarded for those willing to leave Australia.

"Given the continuing global uplift in the IT industry, it comes as no surprise that IT professionals are looking overseas for job opportunities," Taylor said.

"Organisations with operations in Singapore and Hong Kong in particular are offering very attractive packages to fill specific skill shortages."

According to Taylor, Australian enterprises will need to up the ante if they are to compete with the particular brand of professional -- and personal -- development inherent in working abroad.
 
"Australian organisations need to remain competitive in order to retain top ICT talent as global opportunities present themselves. Good career and skills development opportunities need to be in place to make sure the most talented people are recruited and supported throughout their employment," Taylor warned.