By Returning to work after having a baby isn’t easy—mentally, physically, or logistically. For many mums, the thought of jumping back into their old role (or starting a new one) can feel overwhelming. And for local businesses, there’s a huge opportunity to create work environments that support, attract, and retain brilliant women who also happen to be parents.
Here’s how local businesses can better support mums coming back to work—and some helpful lifestyle tips from the Not Mum Today team for those navigating the juggle.
Why It Matters
Mums make up a huge portion of Australia’s part-time and casual workforce. According to the ABS, over 70% of mothers return to work within two years of giving birth. But the return isn’t always smooth—many face a lack of flexibility, understanding, and practical support.
Local businesses are in a unique position. They’re smaller, more agile, and often better able to tailor support than large corporations. And they have a lot to gain—loyal, capable employees who are deeply rooted in the community.
What Local Businesses Can Do
1. Offer Flexible Working Hours
One of the biggest barriers to returning to work is inflexible schedules. Not all roles can be done from home, but even small changes—like starting later, job-sharing, or shorter shifts—can make a massive difference.
- Idea for cafes and retailers: Consider staggered rosters or half-day shifts to accommodate school or daycare drop-offs.
- Idea for salons or clinics: Offer part-time roles on set days or let team members book their own clients around their availability.
2. Create a Family-Friendly Culture
You don’t need to have a toy-filled creche in the back room. A family-friendly workplace simply means one that respects family responsibilities.
Encourage open conversations about parental needs. Avoid making assumptions about availability or ambition based on motherhood. Mums can still want the promotion or the leadership role—they just need support.
3. Provide a Comfortable Return-to-Work Plan
Returning after maternity leave can be daunting. Businesses should work with returning mums to ease them back in. That might include:
- A slow ramp-up of hours
- Refresher training
- Assigning a work buddy or mentor
- Keeping in touch during leave with optional updates or invites to social events
4. Promote Mental Health Support
Postnatal anxiety and depression are more common than many realise. Let staff know about resources like PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) or local parenting support groups. Just knowing they’re supported makes a huge difference.
5. Champion Mum-Owned Businesses
Even if you’re not hiring, you can support local mums by stocking their products, booking their services, or collaborating on local promotions. Suburb Local is a great place to discover women-led businesses in your area.
Tips for Mums Returning to Work
Here on Not Mum Today, we hear from lots of women navigating this big life transition. Here are some of the most helpful tips they’ve shared.
1. Ease the Pressure
You don’t need to bounce back to your old self. In fact, you probably won’t—and that’s OK. Focus on building a routine that works for now, not for your pre-baby life.
2. Prep the Night Before
Lay out clothes (yours and bub’s), pack lunches, and have bags ready to go. It makes the morning chaos a little easier to manage.
3. Pick Work Clothes That Feel Like You
Ditch the pencil skirts if they no longer feel right. Comfort and confidence go hand in hand. Choose outfits that make you feel polished and practical.
4. Use Your Commute Wisely
Whether it’s 10 minutes or 45, make it your time. Audiobooks, playlists, silence—whatever fills your cup.
5. Be Honest About What You Need
Tell your employer what will help you succeed. Whether it’s a bit more flexibility, a change in hours, or a quiet place to pump—ask for it.
Small Shifts, Big Results
Supporting mums in the workforce isn’t about reinventing the wheel. It’s about small shifts in mindset and policy that make a big difference. And for mums? Know that you’re not alone. Thousands of women are figuring this out every day—and there’s no one right way to do it.
If you’re a mum looking for a role that works around you, check out local employers on Suburb Local and the Small But Mighty local business blog, or browse lifestyle tips for modern motherhood at Not Mum Today.
And if you’re a small business? You’ve got the power to be part of the solution. Flexibility, empathy, and smart planning can go a long way—not just for working mums, but for your team, your customers, and your community.