UPDATE: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has just endorsed Victoria’s initiative to legally establish the right to work from home, stating that this reflects the evolving needs of Australian workers. Speaking in Melbourne during the launch of a new urgent care clinic, Albanese responded to questions about the proposed legislation mandating at least two days of remote work each week.
The Victorian government, led by Premier Jacinta Allan, is advocating this change as a response to rising public demand for flexible work arrangements. Albanese emphasized that this approach aligns with federal views, asserting, “Working from home is something that’s important, something that Australians voted for.”
Critics, including legal experts, have raised concerns about the feasibility of enforcing such a right, particularly given that industrial relations powers have been transferred to the Commonwealth. Business groups warn that this legislation could reduce flexibility for employers and employees alike.
Albanese countered these arguments, stating that flexible work is beneficial for both parties. He noted the backlash against the previous Coalition proposal to mandate a five-day return to the office for federal public servants, which was abandoned as support dwindled during the 2025 election campaign.
“This is a response to community sentiment,” he said. “Every time an industrial relations change is proposed, we hear suggestions that somehow this will undermine things.”
The Prime Minister reaffirmed that Victoria has the autonomy to pursue this legislation, indicating a shift towards accommodating the needs of modern Australian workers. With public sentiment strongly favoring remote work, this development could significantly reshape workplace policies across the country.
As this situation evolves, all eyes will be on Victoria to see how this legislation progresses and what implications it may have on the wider Australian workforce. Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent legislative push.
