Companies delay hiring plans, report says

Economic uncertainty at home and abroad has prompted Australian companies to delay hiring plans, a report says.

The Clarius Skills Index, which measures the demand and supply of skilled labour, said employers were cautious about adding new staff given worries in Europe and the US, and weak consumer confidence domestically.

This was expected to continue over the next three to six months, the report, released on Monday, said.

Clarius Group chief operating officer, Kym Quick, said employers were erring on the side of conservatism.

"We are seeing employers pull back on their hiring intentions," Quick said in a statement.

"This is evidenced by not only the index but our own experience, with our clients in all of the areas we specialise in wanting to employ short-term contractors as opposed to full time employees."

The index found overall demand for skilled workers fell by 56,800 in the June quarter, while the supply of skilled workers dropped by 44,700.

Metal tradespersons was the occupation with the highest level of skills shortages, followed by chefs and automotive trades persons.

The top three was unchanged from the previous quarter.

The report, which was developed with KPMG Econtech, said the federal government's proposed carbon plan create new job opportunities beyond industries directly related to climate change.

There would be an increased need for accountants, auditors and IT professionals due to the introduction of the government's bid to introduce a price on carbon.

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