Media release

Australia’s biggest and most profitable financial institutions have overwhelmingly rejected workers’ request to temporarily suspend in-office mandates, instead insisting that employees commute to work during the worsening fuel crisis.

That’s despite Prime Minister Anthony Albanese calling on Australians to conserve fuel where they can. The majority of finance workers can do this by working from home – but only if employers meet the moment and allow it to happen.

Of the 93 finance employers the FSU wrote to, 83 either rejected workers’ request, did not provide a satisfactory response, or failed to respond at all, including the Big Four banks.

The FSU has published employers’ full responses on their website here.

Finance workers proved during the pandemic – and continue to demonstrate today – that they can successfully work from home without disrupting workplace operations. It beggars belief that some of Australia’s largest employers would deny their workers the opportunity to conserve fuel and save money during this worsening crisis.

In light of this failure, the FSU is supporting members with flexible work arrangement (FWA) requests to highlight the significant financial stress they are experiencing.

The union will continue to support members to call on employers to implement common-sense changes that will make a real difference.

Quotes attributable to Finance Sector Union National Secretary Julia Angrisano:

“Suspending in-office mandates won’t cost our profit-rich banks and financial institutions a single dollar. But it will make a meaningful difference for ordinary Australians’ hip pockets during this national crisis.

“In the midst of a global fuel crisis, it beggars belief that some of Australia’s largest and wealthiest employers are more concerned with keeping their staff working in the office, instead of helping conserve fuel for those who need it most.

“If there was ever an opportunity for our banks and financial institutions to meet the moment and act in the national interest, this is it.

“Australia’s finance workers have proven again and again that working from home works – not just for workers, but for employers too. Now, it can make a national difference by helping to conserve Australia’s fuel supply.”

Anonymous quotes from finance workers:

“Last pay cycle after all my bills were paid, I had just over $100 to get me through the fortnight.”

“Driving my car has become a constant source of stress.”

“Week to week, I’m finding it increasingly difficult to afford basic necessities like groceries and fuel, as costs continue to rise while wages remain unchanged.”

“Fuel is becoming exorbitant, we are struggling to survive whilst also raising a baby. The lack of time commuting to the office and lack of money to buy fuel/commute is a major stress point for us. My partner also works away so I am solo parenting trying to juggle this all.”

“On office days, I incur daily commuting costs (driving to the station and train fares) and unavoidable after school care for my children. Despite minimising discretionary spending, each office day costs me around $75. The ability to work fully from home would allow me to save an estimated $150 per week, which would be a meaningful and welcome relief, especially given my capacity to complete all of my duties effectively from home.”

For more information: [email protected] / 0401 738 298