Why More Aussies Are Taking Career Breaks: And Why It Might Be Right for You

In a fast-paced world where burnout is common and purpose feels elusive, more Australians than ever are hitting pause on their careers. But what exactly is a career break, and why are so many Aussies embracing it?

What Is a Career Break?

A career break is a voluntary pause from full-time work, taken for reasons like rest, caregiving, travel, study, or simply reassessing life goals. It’s longer than your average holiday and usually unpaid—but it’s not time “off” in the traditional sense. It’s a chance to reset, recharge, and reimagine your next move.

Unlike previous generations, where a break in your resume might raise eyebrows, modern employers, and platforms like LinkedIn, are starting to embrace the benefits that career breaks bring.

Why Are More Australians Taking Career Breaks?

1. Reassessing Priorities After the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic was a major turning point. A 2024 study by Robert Half found that 55% of Australians are now more open to taking a career break than they were before the pandemic. Mental health, family, and personal growth are topping the list of motivators.

2. Rising Burnout and Mental Health Awareness

With workplace stress reaching new highs, career breaks are increasingly being seen as a preventative measure rather than a luxury. For example, 28-year-old Sofie Spelta from Brisbane walked away from a high-paying marketing job to prioritise her mental well-being, while Sydney-based lawyer Chloe Taylor quit a six-figure role to explore her creativity and personal fulfillment.

3. Shifting Workplace Norms

Career breaks are no longer taboo. In fact, 40% of Aussies expect to take one in their lifetime. Tools like LinkedIn’s career break feature help individuals showcase the skills they developed while away from traditional work—whether that’s managing a household, travelling abroad, or launching a side hustle.

The Benefits of a Career Break

Benefit Why It Matters

Mental Reset Step back from stress and avoid long-term burnout

Personal Growth Use the time for self-discovery, travel, or passion projects

Upskilling Take a course, volunteer, or try something new to boost future employability

Clarity Gain perspective and potentially pivot toward a new career path

Challenges to Consider

While the benefits are real, so are the challenges.

• Financial strain: Most breaks are unpaid. Planning is crucial.

• Career momentum: Some worry they’ll lose their edge or miss opportunities.

• Re-entry: Getting back into the job market can be tricky without a clear story or plan.

That said, many employers now recognise the transferable skills gained through these experiences. Especially if you can confidently explain your journey and what you learned along the way.

So, Should You Take One?

If you’re feeling stuck, exhausted, or uninspired, a career break might not be a setback - it could be a strategy. With the right planning, a break can provide the space to refresh your mindset, explore your options, and return with new energy and purpose.

Before you take the leap, consider:

• Your financial cushion

• What you hope to gain during the break

• How you’ll communicate the break to future employers

A career break isn’t about quitting - it’s about consciously stepping away to reflect, recharge, and realign. With a growing number of Australians embracing this choice, the stigma is fading, and a new definition of success is taking hold.

If you’re thinking of taking the leap, don’t be afraid to pause. You might just find that stepping back is the most powerful move forward.

Want support planning your break or navigating what comes next? Our team at Nudge Your Career is here to help, every step of the way.