Hey Lanki, I was also in the same position as you almost 1 year ago.
Back then I only have 1 year of HR admin position and I left the company as I wanted more exposure.

Just as you said, on and off on contract jobs to make ends meet and accumulate exp at the same time and I did experience around 6 months of unemployment so I can understand how you feel.

Unfortunately I don't have any lobangs to share but just would like to tell you don't give up and keep applying for those HR positions. I feel that at the end of the day it's up to the employer to see whether they like you or not but stay strong.