Almost half of Australian tech workers are actively looking for new jobs, according to a survey released by Greythorn, an IT workforce solutions brand of ManpowerGroup Inc.  (NYSE: MAN). Another 40% are prepared to consider a change for the right offer, with lack of training and career development the key drivers for employee dissatisfaction.

The research also found an increase in demand for contract roles rather than traditional permanent employment arrangements. Forty-two percent of IT workers reported interest in a contract role with 13% interested in a temporary contract and 9.5% in independent contract. The demand for contract roles reflects expectations of rising rates of pay for contract workers and a growing desire for more flexible working arrangements. Forty-two percent of IT professionals expect rates of pay for contract workers to increase over the next 12 months while 25% report an interest in greater flexibility of work hours and the ability to work from home.

The Greythorn research shows that an increasing number of IT workers are seeking new ways of working and expect greater input from their employers into training and career development, according to Greythorn General Manager Suzanne Gerrard.

“Tech workers continue to adapt to changes in work structure such as the rise in contract work,” Gerrard said. “However, in return they want employers who are willing to invest in training, career development and ensure workplace flexibility benefits both employer and employee. Smart companies will take advantage of this openness by providing workers with flexible arrangements while recognising that they must continue to invest in skills.”

Regarding pay, 25% of survey respondents reported having had an increase exceeding 5% in the last 12 months, but 40% said they have had no pay rise at all. And the survey also found entrenched perceptions of discrimination in the sector, with women in particular reporting that greater transparency of remuneration is essential if the pay gap is to be addressed and more women attracted into the sector.

“There is clearly more work to be done if we are to increase the number of opportunities for women and provide a working environment in which professionals from all backgrounds believe they have the opportunity to learn and prosper in the Australian tech sector,” Gerrard said. “The gender pay gap, opportunities for older workers and ensuring an open and inclusive environment are essential to reducing perceptions of discrimination and lack of opportunity.”

The survey gathered data from nearly 2,000 tech workers across Australia on issues such as pay, skills, career development, discrimination and the industry outlook.