Slow times and belt-tightening across the information and communications technology (ICT) sector have sent recruiters' profits plummeting.

ICT recruiters' profitability dropped 53 per cent in the March quarter, compared with 2012 figures, according to the IT Contract and Recruitment Association (ITCRA), which tracks the monthly performance of a sample of agencies.

ITCRA said the period was the local industry's weakest since 2009. Hours billed for contract staff were down 5 per cent on last year while permanent placements for the year to date have dropped 9 per cent.

ITCRA chief executive Julie Mills said lack of investment in major projects meant there was less work for those who found work for others.

''It is typical in uncertain times that no one hires unless they absolutely have to, and they make do, so no investment, no infrastructure …'' Ms Mills said.