[chrisparton1991]

I sort of slipped into contract work this year. After ~5 years of full time work I'd had enough, and I quit my job in January to do more things that I wanted to do (spend time outdoors, work on side projects etc.)

A few months ago I was contacted by a previous employer, asking if I'd be interested in a short-term contract gig (similar pay to what you're describing, but in Australia).

I'm coming to the end of this contract and I have another one lined up once I'm done, working 4 days a week from home and making my own hours.

I have to say that I love the freedom and extra money contracting has given me. Of course, there are a lot of extra costs to consider (no paid leave or superannuation, need public liability and professional indemnity insurance), but even considering all of that I'm better off financially that I was at any previous full-time job.

I wouldn't recommend contracting if you're only just living within your means (e.g. paying off a hefty mortgage and supporting a family) where being let go would leave you in an untenable financial position. Contractors generally have far fewer rights than a full-time employee, and my current agreement states that my contract can be terminated with a day's notice (YMMV).

I hope you have the same experience I've had, all the best!

[weka]

To be fair, you can be let go without notice in the US as well. I was recently let go without notice and I was a salaried employee at the company.