Nearly 9 of 10 ANZ facilities management professionals’ workloads have surged, though job satisfaction is high

While workforce morale appears resilient, MRI Software’s Voice of the Facility Manager report reveals overwork and untapped use of technology as potential deterrents for future talent

Sydney, Australia, 2 April 2025 – A new regional report produced by MRI Software reveals that despite increasing workload demands, facilities management (FM) remains a satisfying career path, with three in four professionals recommending it to others.

MRI’s 2025 Voice of the Facility Manager report, now in its second edition, highlights that while FM professionals across Australia and New Zealand are strong advocates for the profession, its appeal to new entrants may be diminished by surging workloads and overtime hours  —  88% of survey respondents indicated an increase in their responsibilities.

“Facility managers are critical to the success of modern workplaces,” said Heinrich Serfontein, Industry Principal at MRI Software. “The fact that three in four professionals would recommend this career shows the passion within the industry, but we must also consider how we make the profession appealing to the next generation.”

Despite technological advancements and the evolving nature of the role, the industry faces challenges in broadening its appeal. To sustain growth, industry leaders must showcase clear career progression, invest in professional development, and emphasize the diverse opportunities available within FM.

“The strong recommendation rate is a positive indicator, but if fresh talent doesn’t enter the workforce at the pace required, we risk a future skills gap,” added Serfontein. “We need to raise awareness, highlight career pathways, and ensure that facilities management is seen as a viable and dynamic career choice for emerging professionals.”

Compounding these challenges is the rising complexity of day-to-day operations, with contractor management emerging as the top issue facing FM professionals, followed by managing the workload and budget cuts.

Other key findings from the survey of 100+ FM professionals include:

• Employee experience – Workloads have surged, with 88% of professionals taking on more responsibilities and 47% working overtime by 6 hours or more.
• Technology adoption – Nearly one-third (32%) of facilities managers have adopted AI-based solutions in the past 18 months to improve workload efficiency, while 46% of respondents are juggling multiple systems for FM.
• Sustainability – Energy management remains an untapped opportunity, with 30% deeming it essential for the industry to embrace but only 20% currently using energy management technology solutions.
• Resilient FM budgets – 52% of respondents reported budget increases in the past three years, with only 19% stating it decreased.

The 2025 Voice of the Facility Manager, Australia and New Zealand Edition, is available to download https://www.mrisoftware.com/nz/resources/voice-of-the-facility-manager-report-2025/

About MRI Software

MRI Software is a leading provider of real estate software solutions that transform the way communities live, work and play. MRI’s open and connected, AI-first platform empowers agents, owners, operators and occupiers in commercial and residential property organisations to innovate in rapidly changing markets. MRI has been a trailblazer in the PropTech industry for over five decades, serving more than six million users worldwide, including the social and affordable housing sector. Through innovative solutions and a rich partner ecosystem, MRI gives real estate companies the freedom to realise their vision of building thriving communities and stronger businesses. For more information, please visit mrisoftware.com.

Media and Investor Contact

Audrey Nicoll
Head of APAC Marketing, MRI Software
Audrey.Nicoll@mrisoftware.com