Essential workers in NSW are taking on second jobs or considering a move interstate as the Minns government faces pressure over its recent pay offer to public sector employees.

A survey of 7,028 union and non-union public sector workers conducted by Unions NSW, found that 42% of public sector workers were considering moving interstate for similar jobs – a rise of 15 percentage points from two years ago.

Meanwhile, more than two in five (42%) public sector workers were working a second job or considering finding one to supplement their income.

Concerningly, the health sector was most affected, with 67% of health workers considering a move interstate. Further, 56% of this cohort were working or were considering getting a second job to make ends meet.

Unions NSW Secretary, Mark Morey, said the findings were a clear signal.

“The voters that will decide the next election are hugely invested in making sure our essential workers get the fair pay rise they desperately deserve. This should be a massive wake-up call for the NSW government,” said Mr Morey.

Separate qualitative research by consulting firm Redbridge outlined political implications for these findings. Focus groups in marginal outer suburban and regional electorates revealed strong support for a 15% pay claim and workers’ right to take industrial action.

Participants also described the Minns government’s 10.5% three-year pay offer as a “slap in the face.”

“New South Wales’ already-stretched essential services are facing a mass exodus of workers looking interstate for decent pay that keeps their heads above water,” Mr Morey said.

“The political consequences of disrespecting public sector workers could be catastrophic.”