Retrenchment and Redundancy Support

Employment Restructure & Redundancies Information  

In the event that your business is considering employment restructuring, redundancies, or retrenching workers, below is a list of recommended resources and support services available to help guide you through this process. These services are aimed at ensuring you are well-equipped to manage business transitions responsibly, while offering support to your employees during this difficult time. 

Support for Business Employment Restructure and Redundancies 

Local resources are available to help businesses considering restructuring or retrenchment. Here are some key services and steps we recommend: 

1. Workforce Australia Employer Checklist – Considering Retrenchment

Workforce Australia offers a comprehensive checklist for employers considering retrenchment. This includes evaluating alternatives to redundancy such as redeployment or retraining, consulting with employees, and understanding obligations under workplace agreements. You can also access guidance on legal requirements, including informing Services Australia when retrenching 15 or more workers. More information is available here

2. Victorian Government Employment Transition Service

The Local Employment Transition Service (LETS) provides support to businesses and workers facing retrenchment. Jobs Victoria Mentors are available to assist employees by offering career counselling, résumé support, and connecting them with local job opportunities. Learn more about LETS here

3. Transition Support Network

For businesses undergoing restructuring, the Transition Support Network offers assistance to ensure the process is managed responsibly. This includes providing advice on how to handle retrenchment fairly and efficiently, while supporting affected workers. More details can be found here

Workforce Australia Services for Businesses 

Workforce Australia provides tailored recruitment and workforce planning services to help businesses find and retain employees with the right skills. These services include: 

  • Advertising job vacancies and reaching a large pool of candidates. 
  •  Accessing financial incentives of up to $10,000 to cover hiring and training costs.
  • Receiving post-placement support for new employees. 

Businesses can register for Workforce Australia Online

Support for Retrenched Workers

Employees who lose their jobs due to redundancy or retrenchment are eligible for a range of services: 

1. Early Access Initiative

Workers retrenched within the last six months (or their partners) can access employment services through the Early Access initiative. This includes help with job searching, résumé writing, interview preparation, and training for new roles. Registration can be completed through Workforce Australia Online via myGov. 

2. Local Employment Transition Service

LETS offers dedicated support to workers facing retrenchment, including connecting them to new employment opportunities, providing career advice, and offering emotional support during the transition period. 

Download the Retrenchment Support Information Sheet(PDF, 300KB) here.

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