Victorian workers who are able to work from home will be entitled to do so for up to two days a week under new laws set to be introduced into state Parliament, with the government arguing the change will help households manage costs, reduce travel time and support workforce participation.
The legislation, which will amend the Equal Opportunity Act 2010, is due to come into effect on 1 September. It sets out a legal framework giving eligible employees a right to request and access hybrid working arrangements where their role allows it. Regular part-time and casual workers are included in the coverage.
The government says the change reflects ongoing patterns in the workforce since the pandemic, with more than a third of workers, including around 60 per cent of professionals, already working from home on a regular basis. It estimates households save an average of $110 a week, or about $5,308 a year, when remote working is part of their routine. It also points to reduced commuting times, with Victorians reported to be saving more than three hours a week on average, alongside higher workforce participation compared with pre-pandemic levels.
For smaller employers, there will be a longer transition period. Businesses with fewer than 15 employees will not be required to comply until 1 July 2027, giving them additional time to adjust workplace policies and systems.
Disputes over arrangements will be handled initially through the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission for conciliation. If agreement cannot be reached, matters may proceed to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal for determination.
Premier Jacinta Allan said the policy reflects what many households have already been experiencing. “Work from home works for families, it saves time and money and it gets more parents working,” she said. “That’s why we’re protecting work from home in law.”
Industrial Relations Minister Jaclyn Symes said the legislation would provide certainty for workers and employers. “Work from home is good for families, good for productivity and good for the economy,” she said. “Enshrining the right in law will mean more workers can benefit from Work From Home.”
The government has framed the change as a safeguard for existing flexible work practices, pointing to union concerns about workers being refused requests to work remotely where it is feasible. It also argues the policy will support continued labour force participation.
Opposition parties have indicated they would take a different approach to workplace flexibility, with debate continuing over the role of legislation in setting baseline expectations for hybrid work across the state’s economy.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
