DCA welcomes the Victorian Government’s decision to introduce new working from home legislation, giving Victorians who can reasonably do their job from home the right to do so for at least two days a week. DCA has long been an advocate for providing workers with the flexibility they needed to manage work and other commitments, whether it be flexibility in where, when and how they do their job.
The benefits of flexible working for individuals, organisations, and the economy are well-established, yet flexibility is still not mainstreamed in many Australian workplaces. In the face of globalisation, technology advancements and demographic shifts, embedding flexibility, including working from home, is critical to the future of work.
The future of work demands flexibility in the way individuals, teams, and organisations work. If we are to fully engage Australia’s diverse talent pool, we must encourage workplace conditions that are inclusive for all, and where flexibility is a standard, not an exception.
DCA provided a written submission on the Victorian Government’s plan to introduce working from home legislation. The government is currently in the process of reviewing submissions and will develop legislation in 2026.
The case for working from home
There is a large body of evidence that shows benefits of working from home for both organisations and employees. The submission provides details that support the case for working from home, and how legislation around this is beneficial for:
- Productivity
- Participation
- Economic benefits
- Wellbeing
- Sustainability
- Retention and attraction
The absence of formal policy surrounding the right to work from home for those who reasonably can leaves marginalised employees open to having essential workplace adjustments removed or rejected.
Considerations and recommendations
The submission outlines seven considerations with policy recommendation that DCA recommends taking into account for the proposed legislation. These considerations include:
- Career development, promotion, and remuneration
- Workload management and wellbeing
- Workplace inclusion and equity
- Assumptions around productivity and performance
- Occupational health and safety
- Regional and economic participation
- Cultural change and stigma reduction
Victoria’s proposed legislation provides an opportunity to enshrine flexible work as a standard workplace right rather than a discretionary benefit. Clear and enforceable protections will help ensure that flexibility is available to all employees who can reasonably work from home, and that requests are assessed fairly and consistently.