Redundancy.
That word alone is enough to make your stomach drop, your palms sweat, and your brain spiral into a late-night panic scroll.

Yes, the news can be a shock. And yes, it can be scary as hell. But hear me out, it can also be a massive opportunity. Whether you were already getting itchy feet or blindsided mid-maternity leave, this kind of shake-up might be the thing that propels you toward a life you’ve actually been craving.

Trust me, I’ve been there.

Redundancy After Maternity Leave? Cute.

A few years ago, I was made redundant shortly after returning from maternity leave. I was exhausted, broke, and had just committed to starting a degree part-time (because clearly I enjoy chaos). The plan? Work part-time, study, and eventually leap into a brand-new career I was passionate about.

The universe? Said “plot twist!”

The aviation industry I’d worked in for 12 years was taking a nose-dive thanks to COVID-19. I loved my job, my coworkers, and the weird airport camaraderie that comes from knowing your shift-mates better than your own family. Losing all of that felt like a breakup. But I wasn’t alone, heaps of us were let go at once, which strangely helped soften the blow. Nothing like communal trauma to bond you for life!

The Panic Spiral (and What I Learned)

I knew I had to find work fast, maternity leave had already pushed the budget to its limits. I also knew that I didn’t want just any job. If I was going to pivot, I wanted to do something that made a difference, that felt meaningful.

But everything in my comfort zone, aviation, was off the table.
Cue the imposter syndrome and doom-scrolling.

I eventually found a full-time job supporting emergency services. It was outside my comfort zone and logistically very stressful with two young kids, but I gave it a red-hot go. And I’m so glad I did.

Because sometimes? The thing that feels terrifying at first is the very thing that sets you free.

News flash! I’ve had a couple more pivots since then…more on that here

5 Things That Helped Me Survive (and Reboot)

Whether you’re staring down the barrel of redundancy or just navigating big life changes, these 5 steps helped me keep my head above water, and might help you too:

Step 1: Imagine Your Best Life

What does your ideal day look like?
What are you doing?
Who are you helping?
What do you actually care about?

Write it all down. This list becomes your North Star. Every decision you make from here should move you closer to it.

Step 2: Face Your Finances (Even If You’d Rather Scream into a Pillow)

I get it, money stuff can be overwhelming. But ignoring it won’t help. Figure out:

• How long your redundancy payout will last
• What recurring expenses you can cut or renegotiate
• Whether your redundancy is genuine and not unfair dismissal (check: Fair Work Ombudsman)
• If any big purchases are coming up

Then, build a simple budget based on your current (and future) income, no glittery spreadsheets needed.

Step 3: Take Stock of Your Skills (You’ve Got More Than You Think)

Make a list of everything you’re good at, even if it feels small. Then visit these helpful Aussie career tools:

• myfuture.edu.au
  
• yourcareer.gov.au
  
• training.com.au

They can help you discover career matches, upskilling options, and remind you that yes, you do have something valuable to offer.

P.S. This is also the perfect time to consider:

• That side hustle you’ve been flirting with
• Starting your own business
• Upskilling online (bonus if you can do it in your pyjamas)

[ Check out my article on side hustles!]

Step 4: Use Your Network (aka Ask Your Mates)

Let your friends, family, and old coworkers know you’re looking. People love to help — and sometimes it’s not what you know, but who your cousin’s best friend’s dog groomer knows.

Also:

• Contact recruitment agencies and let them know your skills
• Keep an eye on local Facebook job groups

• Be vocal about what you’re looking for. Clarity attracts opportunity

Step 5: Update Your Resume (And

Clean Up Your Socials)

• Choose a clean, modern resume template
• Tailor it for every job you apply for
• Add your achievements, not just responsibilities
• Triple check for spelling/grammar (you’d be amazed…)

Then, polish your LinkedIn:

• Add your latest roles and achievements
• Turn on “open to work”
• Do a quick audit of your Facebook/Insta. Either clean them up or switch to private

(We love a messy wine selfie, but maybe not on public view if you’re applying for Head of Finance.)

Bonus Tip: Ask for Help (You Don’t Have to Do It Alone)

I leaned heavily on my friends during this time, especially one who works in HR. He looked over my resume, helped me prep for interviews, and gave me a much-needed confidence boost. After 12 years in one job, the thought of starting over was intimidating. Having someone in my corner made all the difference.

Final Thoughts: Redundancy Isn’t the End…It’s a Reboot

If you’ve been made redundant, first things first – I’m so sorry. It sucks. But also: you’ve got this!

You’ve already done hard things.
You’ve already bounced back from chaos.
You’ve already survived work, kids, and those relentless “I’m starving” requests.

Redundancy is hard. But it can also be the push you didn’t know you needed.

So be kind to yourself.
Stay curious.
And say yes to what comes next, even if it looks different than what you imagined.

The right role will come. And if it doesn’t?
You might just make one for yourself.