Been Made Redundant? Here’s What to Do Right Now

Unemployment is at 5.1% in New Zealand and rising in Australia. Redundancies are hitting hard.

Whether you saw it coming or it was a shock, losing your job can be a huge psychological and financial burden. But from working with clients in the same situation, I know it can also be an opportunity to take control.

5 Steps to Take Immediately

🛑 1. Understand Your Rights and Financial Position
Check your redundancy payout, leave entitlements, and any available government support. In NZ, look at Work & Income support. In AU, Fair Work Australia outlines your legal rights. Understanding your safety net will reduce stress.

🚀 2. Reassess Your Career Direction
Do you want to find a similar role? Change industries? Freelance? Start a business? Redundancy can be a chance to realign with what you really want.

👥 3. Activate Your Network
Job boards are competitive, but we know the majority of hires come through networking. Update your LinkedIn, reach out to old colleagues, and let people know you’re looking. I've had clients land jobs purely through conversations.

📚 4. Upskill & Stay Competitive
Look at fast-growing skills in your industry. In New Zealand and Australia, digital, data, AI, and sustainability skills are in high demand. Take free/low-cost courses to boost your value.

📅5. Get a Plan & Professional Support
A structured job search or career pivot makes all the difference. CareerMate helps people navigate redundancy and transition with clarity. Book a free session here.

Final Thoughts

Redundancy is tough, but it’s not the end of your career. It’s a reset. It can often be a blessing in disguise. If you need clarity, structure, and an action plan, CareerMate is here to help. Check out our free ‘Get Unstuck’ Workbook for more tips and tricks!