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Major survey backs WFH in Victoria

As the Victorian Government continues to pursue its commitment to legislate the right to work from home at least two days per week, the FSU has argued in favour of the proposal on behalf of finance workers.

Our submission to the government highlighted what workers proved during the years of COVID-19 lockdowns: that finance workers can perform the majority of our work effectively and productively from home.  

Our submissions also highlighted the ongoing benefits of work from home – including mental health, financial, and better flexibility – as well as the current threat of employers attempting to wind back these flexible arrangements. 

What do Victorians think? 

Meanwhile, results from a major Victorian Government consultation survey of 36,770 employees have revealed overwhelming support for better WFH protections. 

Saving time on commute, saving money, and being able to focus more on work without distractions were identified as the top three benefits of working from home. 

Other survey results included: 

  • More than 74% of employees surveyed said the right to WFH was “extremely” important to them. 
  • More than 3200 didn’t feel they could ask their current employer to work from home. 
  • Of those who could work from home but currently don’t, most had requested it – and most were refused. 
  • Almost all those who were refused felt this was unreasonable, and the majority said it led to further challenges for them in the workplace. 

Read more about the government’s survey here.

Remember, having Victoria-wide legislation that enshrines WFH as a right will benefit everyone, as it will help us negotiate even more strongly for enterprise agreements that recognise and respect our right to flexibility.

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