Deal reached for unlimited working from home for public sector staff

The Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) says it has agreed with the Australian Public Service Commission all staff will be able to request a flexible working arrangement, including working from home with no caps on the number of days.

Union members work in Federal and ACT and NT public sectors, telecommunications, call centres, employment services, commercial broadcasting, aviation and science and research.

It has also agreed roles can be performed in wider location across the nation, and when First Nations employees make a flexible work request, the agency will have to consider connection to country and cultural obligations.

Melissa Donnelly, CPSU National Secretary said the move will help attract and keep employees.

“These significantly improved and enforceable flexible work rights will open doors for individuals who were previously unable to consider APS employment, or had to leave because of a change in circumstances,” Donnelly said.

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“The traditional approach to APS work has hindered the attraction and retention of staff across the Service.”

“Flexibility in how, when and where public sector work is done will see the APS become increasingly diverse, adaptable and accessible.

“This is good news for public servants, public services, public policy, and the public.”

With 120,000 members the Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) is one of Australia’s biggest.