A new Australian tech startup is making waves in the employment sector with the launch of an innovative app designed to connect retirees with flexible part-time work opportunities. As more Australians remain active beyond traditional retirement age, the platform aims to fill a gap in the market by bridging experienced talent with businesses seeking reliable, short-term staffing solutions. The company’s founders believe their service responds to both shifting employment trends and demographic changes.
Demographic research indicates that Australia’s population is ageing, and with that comes a growing cohort of retirees eager to stay engaged in the workforce. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, participation rates among people aged 65 and over have steadily increased in recent years. Many seniors are seeking new roles not just for supplemental income but also for mental stimulation and community engagement.
The newly launched app, called SilverLink, allows retirees to create a profile highlighting their skills, experience, and areas of interest. Businesses, in turn, can post part-time or project-based positions easily and efficiently, matching potential hires to specific jobs. SilverLink’s user-friendly interface is designed with accessibility in mind, catering to individuals who may not be as comfortable with technology as younger generations are.
Mark Evans, co-founder of SilverLink, shared, "Retirees hold a wealth of knowledge and skills that businesses need, but there’s often no clear channel for connecting them. Our app creates an easy pathway for both parties to benefit." He emphasized the importance of flexible arrangements, noting that many retirees prefer short-term or seasonal jobs that fit around their lifestyles and health considerations.
From the perspective of employers, the benefits are equally compelling. Small and medium-sized enterprises often struggle to fill roles requiring reliability and specific expertise on a temporary basis. With SilverLink’s vetting process and focus on experienced workers, companies can access a trusted pool of candidates. Early pilot programs with several Sydney-based firms yielded high satisfaction rates among business owners.
The trend towards post-retirement work extends beyond financial necessity. A 2023 survey by the National Seniors Association found that 68% of Australians over 60 would consider returning to work if the conditions aligned with their needs. Flexibility, respect for experience, and a sense of purpose were among the top motivating factors cited by respondents.
SilverLink’s platform also includes features designed to foster a sense of community. Retirees can share advice, exchange experiences, and rate employers, building a supportive network. The company hopes this will help reduce feelings of isolation sometimes experienced after leaving full-time employment. Social connectivity, the founders argue, is just as important as financial reward for many older Australians.
“We’ve seen a surge in interest from industries such as retail, hospitality, and education," reports Sarah Lim, SilverLink’s Chief Operating Officer. "These sectors often have fluctuating staffing needs, which align perfectly with retirees’ desire for flexibility. Additionally, employers are starting to recognize the value that maturity and life experience bring to team dynamics and customer service.”
Government authorities have expressed cautious optimism about private sector initiatives like SilverLink. A spokesperson from the Department of Employment noted, "While public policy remains focused on intergenerational equity, platforms that promote experience sharing and support workforce participation among seniors can play an important role in Australia’s economic well-being." The department is monitoring developments closely to assess broader impacts.
Another significant aspect of the SilverLink app is its commitment to digital literacy. The startup offers step-by-step tutorials and helpline support, acknowledging that not all retirees are comfortable with mobile technology. This focus on accessibility and empowerment seeks to ensure that the benefits of flexible employment are available to as many older Australians as possible, regardless of their technical background.
The economic implications of increased workforce participation among retirees are notable. Experts say leveraging the experience of older Australians can help address labour shortages, alleviate pressure on social security systems, and contribute to higher overall productivity. Research conducted by the Grattan Institute reveals that even a modest rise in workforce participation from seniors could add billions of dollars to the national economy each year.
Looking forward, SilverLink has plans to expand its services to regional areas where opportunities for older workers may be even more limited. The startup is also exploring partnerships with community organizations and local councils to broaden its reach and impact. As the platform gains momentum, its founders hope to inspire a cultural shift that views retirement as a new chapter of opportunity rather than a closed door.