Applications for federal public service jobs in Canada have dropped by nearly 30 per cent, according to data released by the government. The sharp decline has raised concerns about the attractiveness of government careers amid a competitive labor market.
Drop in Applications
Between 2024 and 2025, the number of applications received for federal public service positions fell by approximately 28 per cent, from over 1.2 million to around 864,000. The data, obtained by The Canadian Press, shows the decline across multiple departments and agencies.
“This is a significant decrease that we are monitoring closely,” said a spokesperson for the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat. “We are analyzing the factors behind this trend to ensure we remain an employer of choice.”
Possible Causes
Experts point to several reasons for the drop. The tight labor market, with low unemployment rates, has made it easier for job seekers to find positions in the private sector. Additionally, the federal hiring process has been criticized for being slow and cumbersome, potentially deterring applicants.
“The public service has a reputation for lengthy hiring timelines, which can be a turnoff for candidates who have other options,” said David Akin, a labour market analyst. “Younger workers, in particular, may prefer the flexibility and faster pace of private-sector jobs.”
Impact on Government Operations
The decline in applications could affect the government’s ability to fill critical roles, especially in areas like digital services, cybersecurity, and policy analysis. Some departments have already reported difficulties in recruiting specialized talent.
“We are seeing shortages in key technical fields,” said the Treasury Board spokesperson. “We are working to streamline hiring processes and improve our value proposition to attract top talent.”
Government Response
In response to the trend, the federal government has launched initiatives to modernize recruitment, including a new online platform and targeted campaigns for underrepresented groups. The government is also exploring ways to reduce hiring times and offer more competitive compensation.
“We are committed to making the public service a great place to work,” the spokesperson added. “We believe these efforts will help reverse the decline.”
