With WFH Reforms Entering Parliament, Bendigo Businesses Give Their Verdict
The laws would require employers to allow remote work two days a week where possible and add a dispute process for workers and businesses.
- On Tuesday, Premier Jacinta Allan announced legislation to legally enshrine the right for Victorians to work from home two days a week, with implementation set for September 1 if parliament approves.
- The government argues the policy will save workers up to $5000 annually and help parents, aiming to protect flexible working practices popularized during the COVID-19 pandemic from future political or legal challenges.
- Workers must provide a formal "work from home notice" to employers, who must respond within 21 days; small businesses with fewer than 15 employees receive an extension until July 1, 2027.
- Melbourne Lord Mayor Roshena Campbell labeled the impending legislation a "bureaucratic and legal nightmare," while hospitality owners fear reduced foot traffic in the Melbourne CBD, where office occupancy exceeded 65 per cent in early 2026.
- Disputes will be overseen by the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission, with unresolved matters proceeding to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal; however, the bill's first draft excludes apprentices, graduates, and workers on probation.
12 Articles
12 Articles
Victorian Government Introduces Bill Giving Workers Right to Work From Home
The Victorian Labor government will introduce legislation that would give workers in the state the legal right to work from home two days a week. The bill amends the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 and creates an enforceable entitlement for eligible employees who can perform their jobs remotely. “We’re introducing new laws today in Parliament to protect your right to work from home,” Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said on social media on June 16. If…
Business Council warns national consequences of Victorian WFH laws
The Victorian Government’s introduction of mandatory work from home (WFH) legislation is “a solution searching for a problem”, the Business Council of Australia (BCA) says. The new laws, introduced to Parliament on Tuesday, will entitle Victorians to two remote working days per week. This applies to regular, casual and part-time workers. If passed, the bill will take effect on September 1, with a delayed commencement of next July for companies…
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 38% of the sources lean Left, 37% of the sources lean Right
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
