Your Essential Guide to Navigating Redundancy in Australia

1. Know Your Rights and Entitlements

Your first step is to familiarise yourself with your employment contract and company's redundancy policy. If you are part of a union, consult them for advice as well. Understanding your entitlements is paramount. The Australian Fair Work Act provides clear guidelines on redundancy, taking into account your duration of service, age, and role in the company. Do a deep dive into the Fair Work website or engage with your union representative to ensure you're up to date with your benefits.

2. Consult Legal Advice

Consult with an Employment Lawyer to ensure that your redundancy is being handled lawfully. An employment lawyer can guide you on unfair dismissal claims and ensure you're receiving the correct redundancy package.

3. Update Financial Plans

Financial experts recommend having a contingency fund that can cover at least three to six months of living expenses. If you don't have one, consider revising your budget and are making necessary cuts. Redundancy often comes with a financial payout, but it's essential to budget for the future. Book an appointment with a financial advisor or reach out to organisations like the National Debt Helpline. If you have commitments like a mortgage, touch base with your bank; they may have solutions or payment relief options.

4. Leverage Your Network

It's often said, "It's not what you know, but who you know." Attend networking events in your city, or join virtual ones, considering our vast landscapes. The Australian Chamber of Commerce is an excellent starting point. Often, job opportunities arise from casual conversations rather than formal applications. Start reaching out to your professional network as soon as possible. According to a survey by LinkedIn, 85% of jobs are filled via networking (Source: LinkedIn, "Global Recruiting Trends"). Your next opportunity could come from a former colleague or friend.

5. Revamp Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Your resume and LinkedIn are crucial tools for your job search. Its important to work with a qualified Career Counsellor as soon as you are aware of the redundancy occurring. Our Career Counsellors can assist you with updating your Resume/CV as well as preparing strong Cover Letters that have the necessary keywords to secure an interview. A Career Counsellor can also complete an audit of your LinkedIn page and recommend necessary changes to ensure you have a professional LinkedIn profile page.

6. Seek Professional Development

Utilise the spare time you will have to upskill yourself. Australia's job landscape is ever evolving. Look at TAFE courses, online platforms like Coursera or Udemy, and local community workshops offer a wide range of courses that can make you more marketable. Upskilling might just open doors to roles you hadn’t previously considered. Or given you the chance to pivot into a new career.

7. Prepare for Your Interviews

Once you start receiving interview calls, preparation is key. Your Career Counsellor can assist you with programs that can develop the skills you need and how your respond to the interviewers’ questions. Our Qualified Career Counsellor will work with you to ensure that you are answering behavioural interview questions effectively.

8. Emotional Well-being

It's completely normal to feel a range of emotions, from anger to uncertainty. Aussie organisations like Beyond Blue and Lifeline offer outstanding resources and support. Lean on family, mates, or professional counsellors – they're there to support and guide you through. 

It's important to look after your mental health during this stressful time. Psychologists suggest engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation to reduce stress, (Source: American Psychological Association, "Coping with Stress"). 

9. Consult a Registered Professional Career Development Practitioner

A career counsellor can offer valuable insights and strategies for your job search. According to the International Coaching Federation, 80% of people who receive coaching report increased self-confidence, and over 70% benefit from improved work performance and relationships (Source: International Coaching Federation, "ICF Global Coaching Study").

10. Stay Updated and Be Patient

Job searching is a dynamic process. Keep an eye on industry trends and job openings and adjust your strategies accordingly. Patience and persistence are key, according to career experts.

11. Consider Temporary or Part-time Work

While seeking your next full-time gig, there’s no shame in taking up a part-time or temp role. It keeps the cash flow coming and might introduce you to industries or roles you hadn't thought about.

12. Stay Positive and Open-minded

Australians are known for their resilience and tenacity. This phase is just that – a phase. Embrace the change, stay positive, and remain open to new opportunities.

In conclusion, while redundancy is a challenging phase, being strategic and proactive can help you navigate through it more effectively. By knowing your rights, optimising your job search tools, and seeking expert advice, you can turn this setback into a new opportunity for career growth.

Are you currently going through a redundancy? At Your Time to Thrive, we can provide you with a range of services that with help you in securing a job or a new career. Contact us via phone, email, WhatsApp or our socials. 

Stephen Duggan, RPCDP, is a seasoned career counsellor with over two decades of experience in guiding professionals and students alike in their quest for career excellence. For more information about our services head to www.yourtime2thrivecareercounselling.com.au.

© 2023 Stephen Duggan