
The days of work-from-home opportunities are dwindling.
It’s 2025, five years post-pandemic, and many workplaces are enforcing in office policies once again. While some organisations offer hybrid options, landing a fully remote role is becoming increasingly challenging, especially if you’re just starting your search.
Here’s the hard truth: to secure a work-from-home job, you need the right skills before you start applying. The competition is fierce, and you’re up against experienced remote workers who already know how to thrive in that environment. So, how do you break into this market if you’re a mum (or soon-to-be mum) looking for a flexible work setup?
Plan Ahead: Start Before You Have Kids
The best way to ensure you have a work-from-home career is to prepare before your children arrive. Building a career or business that’s adaptable to remote work before parenthood can save you a lot of stress. The goal is to create a foundation that allows you to pivot into a work-from-home setup when the time comes.
If you’re already a mum, don’t worry as it’s never too late to start, but preparation is key. You’ll need to build skills or establish a business that aligns with remote opportunities.
Work-From-Home Job Ideas
Here are some careers and businesses that lend themselves well to working from home:
Hairdressing or Beauty Services: Mobile or home-based setups are increasingly popular.
Bookkeeping or Accounting: Many small businesses outsource their financial needs.
Copywriting and Content Creation: A staple in the digital world, this can be done from anywhere.
Social Media Management: Help brands grow their online presence.
Virtual Assistant Roles: Provide administrative support remotely, ranging from EA tasks to content scheduling.
Freelance Services: Think recruitment, journalism, or consulting.
Clothing Alterations or Tailoring: A practical skill that people will always need.
These careers often require specific skills or qualifications, so the earlier you start, the better.
Why Your Own Business Might Be the Answer
In my opinion, starting your own business is one of the best ways to create a sustainable work-from-home lifestyle. Running your own business gives you control over your schedule and allows you to adapt to your family’s needs.
With social media and online marketplaces, marketing your services has never been easier. Whether you’re selling products, offering services, or leveraging your expertise, the digital world is your oyster. In saying that, never underestimate the effort required. Building a business takes time and dedication, so start while you’re still flexible enough to invest in it.
The Current Work-From-Home Landscape
Recent trends show a decline in remote work opportunities as companies push employees back to the office. For example, the NSW Government recently mandated its 430,000 public servants to primarily work from the office, citing collaboration and mentorship as key reasons. Similarly, Amazon has required its 7,000 Australian employees to return to the office five days a week from early 2025. These shifts highlight the growing challenges in securing new remote roles in today's job market.
The Reality of Life With Kids
Let’s be real: life with kids is rewarding, but it’s also hard. Many workplaces claim to support parents, but flexibility is often limited. This is why creating your own opportunities is so important. By investing in your skills and career now, you’re setting yourself up for a future that works for you and your family.
You Can Do It
I’m living proof that it’s possible to create a work-from-home career that fits around your family. It takes preparation, perseverance, and risk. With the right mindset and planning, you can absolutely make it work.
So, whether you’re planning for the future or navigating the challenges of parenthood right now, remember: you have the power to build a life and career that works for you. Start now, and thank yourself later.