2025 Salary & Hiring Guide for Startups & Scaleups
Why It Matters
The hiring market has stabilised, but it is far from quiet. Strong candidates have options again, and companies that move fast are securing them. For founders and CTOs, staying competitive means more than offering higher salaries. It means understanding market shifts, designing compelling total packages, and leading with flexibility.
Key Takeaways
Salaries Are Rising Again
After a cautious 2024, the hiring market has rebounded faster than expected. Product-led startups and scaleups across Australia and New Zealand have lifted salaries by around 8%, with Staff and Principal Engineers seeing the biggest jumps. Competition for talent is heating up, and top candidates are moving quickly.
Total Compensation Matters More Than Ever
Base salary is only part of the story. Companies are now competing through total compensation, blending bonuses, equity, and flexibility. For senior engineers and leaders, total packages have grown by up to 10%, driven by refreshed equity grants and performance-based bonuses.
Flexibility Is Redefining Value
Remote and hybrid work have reshaped salary expectations. Fully remote roles can access up to 90% of the candidate market, while office-heavy roles are competing for a much smaller pool. Flexibility is now a key lever in both attraction and retention.
