30 January 2024
In December 2022, Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Tommy Giles turned 60 and needed to retire from full-time service.
However, through ServeOn, he was able to find a flexible role that allowed him to remain connected with Army and embrace semi-retirement.
“It’s brilliant,” WO1 Giles said.
“It’s a great experience working flexibly. I’ve been able to maintain a sense of purpose and it also provides a social aspect where I’m able to keep in touch with people I’ve worked with over the years.”
Having provided more than 40 years of service across the Irish Army and the Australian Army, WO1 Giles was keen to continue serving on his own terms.
“I’ve always believed that there’s a job for everyone in the Army, if that person wants it,” he said.
The flexibility to serve three days a week during business hours as a separations manager has allowed WO1 Giles to look after his grandchildren each Monday and spend more time with his wife, Sandra.
“When the grandkids come over on a Monday, Sandra and I really enjoy taking them to the local park and seeing them run around,” he said.
With extra time on his hands, WO1 Giles has enjoyed making the most of his semi-retirement by reading novels and watching plenty of sport.
“I’ve worked full-time since I was 15,” he said.
“Now I am enjoying the freedom to choose what I do, when I do it, and how I want to spend my day.”
For members who are approaching or have reached the compulsory retirement age for full-time service, but are under 65, WO1 Giles believes it’s worthwhile to reach out to find a flexible service role.
“People may not be aware of all the roles that are available,” WO1 Giles said.
“It’s not too late to find something and stay connected.”
To find a flexible role that suits your lifestyle visit www.army.gov.au/serveon and request a phone call from your local Contingent Workforce Management Cell.
