A campaign is under way to encourage retired people to re-engage with the workforce.
“The Unretire the ‘Bool campaign responds to the current labour shortages that have been an issue for some businesses in the post-COVID recovery,” Mayor Cr Debbie Arnott said.
“We know many retired people remain energetic and have invaluable expertise and skills,” she said.
“We’re keen to see whether local employers can tap into this pool of people.”
Council’s Manager Economic Development Steve Hoy said there were mutual benefits to the Unretire the ‘Bool campaign.
“The unretired worker gains income and can become involved in the social side of a workplace while the employer gains an extra set of hands and someone with great life and work experience,” Mr Hoy said.
Fishtales owner Tamara Mahoney said it was a tough time to recruit staff for many Warrnambool businesses.
“I’ve been in business 30 years and never have I experienced staff shortages like this,” Ms Mahoney said.
“The impact of this has affected our trading hours more than ever.
“Un-Retiring The Bool to me is a magic idea, it’s an untapped resource that can offer so much.
“Not only is it great for the retirees but for businesses to gain their knowledge and experience is so valuable.
“A multi-generational workforce is something we should all be aspiring to and this feels like the first step.”
“We have a simple online registration form that employers or potential employees can complete and we’ll use this to help connect our senior jobseekers with prospective employers,” Mr Hoy said.
“There is no cost to attend the information session or to register your interest as a business operator or retiree looking to re-enter the workforce.”
A 2022 study by not-for-profit organisation National Seniors Australia found that more than 15 per cent of respondents had re-entered the workforce after retirement while about 18 per cent said they would consider it.
The study identified five themes that motivated people to re-enter the workforce. They included financial, activity and interest, contribution and meaning, connection and community and responding to a call for assistance.