The Recruitment and Consulting Services Australia (RSCA) 2006 Skills Shortage Index also found a critical skills shortage for building professionals and tradespeople continues to plague business.

The survey of Australian recruitment companies examined the jobs that recruiters had the most difficulty filling in 2006.

“With the exception of business professionals, who ranked fourth on the top-10 list, trades, engineering and building roles dominated the list,” RCSA chief executive officer Julie Mills said.

“We've seen the same types of roles fill the skills shortage list over the past few years, and they point to a long-term trend.”

Mills said there would be “no quick fix” for businesses seeking engineers, builders and tradespeople, which will affect both employers and those who buy their services.

She said coping with the skills shortage meant businesses would need to think carefully about recruitment.

“Being flexible about your expectations, creating a workplace that accommodates everyone, and going beyond financial rewards are just some of the ways in which you can attract and retain the people you need,” she said.