Victorians will be allowed to work from home for at least two days a week under the state government’s proposed new laws.
Premier Jacinta Allan today announced she would introduce legislation to allow both public and private sector workers who can reasonably do their job at home to be able to.
“Not everyone can work from home, but everyone can benefit,” she said.
“If you can do your job from home, we’ll make it your right, because we’re on your side.”
Allan added that more than a third of all Australians are already regularly working from home.
The permanent flexible working arrangements are estimated to save employees an average of $110 per week, an average of three hours commuting and support women with children, carers and people with disability.
Treasurer Jaclyn Symes said this was also an economic policy that would boost labour participation and productivity.
Employer groups said they were completely blindsided by the call.
“It is a staggering development. One that we weren’t expecting and haven’t been consulted on,” Committee for Melbourne Chief Executive Scott Veenker said.
“It’s an overstep by the government, it’s overreach,” Australian Industry Group’s Victoria Head Tim Piper.
“It shows a complete disregard for the role that business people have in their own business.”
Melbourne’s Lord Mayor Nick Reece said the law could be unfair to workers who are unable to work from home.
“If you’re a teacher, or a police officer, or a nurse, you have to turn up to do your job and I think it’s only fair that public servants and pollies do the same,” he said.
Allan accepted that there will be some workplaces where working from home will not be an option.
Victorian Opposition Leader Brad Brattin said he recognised working from home has become a “valuable option” for many people.
“We support measures that help Victorians enjoy a better work-life balance, and will review any legislation closely, to ensure it supports flexibility, productivity, and personal choice,” he said.
The state government will undertake further consultation to consider the types and sizes of businesses that will be covered by the scheme.
The law will then be introduced next year, months out from the next state election.
