Has your employer suspended their in-office mandate?

15 April 2026

Our union recently called on employers in the finance sector to suspend in-office mandates, given the war in the Middle East and the worsening fuel crisis.

The response from most employers has been disappointing. None of the big four banks, major insurers or super funds agreed to our request.

In the midst of a global fuel crisis, it seems most employers are more concerned with employees working in the office than helping conserve fuel for those who need it most.

Some employers, however, have responded more positively to the crisis, namely RACQ, who are providing a fuel allowance for staff.

See how your employer responded here

Since our request, the global situation has only deteriorated and the need for employers to step up has become more pressing.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called on all Australians to do their bit to conserve petrol where we can. Unfortunately, public transport is not an option for many FSU members. But as we proved during the pandemic, most of us who work in non-retail settings can work from home.

Request a change to your working arrangements

If your employer hasn’t agreed to suspend their in-office mandate, we encourage you to submit a flexible work arrangement request using one of our template letters. Look for the template letter for your workplace below, otherwise you can use this general template letter.

If your request is rejected, contact our Member Rights Centre on 1300 366 378 so we can assist you.

The more workers who highlight their concerns and make this an issue for employers, the more likely employers will be pressured to act with common-sense solutions.

We understand working from home is not an option for all members, including those who work in retail settings. Our union is here to help you however we can. We are supporting the ACTU’s urgent case in the Fair Work Commission to increase vehicle allowances, which covers workers who need to use their own vehicles for travel during working hours and who are covered by modern awards with vehicle allowance provisions.

Remember, if you need assistance or support, you can call our Member Rights Centre on 1300 366 378.

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