VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA
The Victorian Government’s new work-from-home laws will come into effect on 1 September, with legislation set to be introduced to Parliament in July.
Under the laws, which will be enshrined in the state’s Equal Opportunity Act, Victorians who can work from home will have the legal right to do so two days a week.
“Work from home works for families, because it saves time and money and it gets more parents working,” said Victorian Premier, Jacinta Allan.
“Only Labor has new solutions to make life easier, safer and more affordable.”
“That’s why we will protect work from home in law from 1 September.”
The new legislation will have a delayed commencement of 1 July 2027 for workplaces with fewer than 15 employees, to allow them more time to get their HR policies and procedures in order, the Government confirmed.
“Enshrining this right in law means no boss or Liberal can take it away from our workers,” said Minister for Industrial Relations, Jaclyn Symes.
“Work from home is good for families, good for productivity and good for the economy.”
The law will also provide a clear pathway for dispute resolution and enforcement, with disputes to go to the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) for conciliation. If conciliation fails, the dispute will be heard at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
