In a landmark shift set to redefine the post-pandemic workplace, Premier Jacinta Allan has unveiled plans to enshrine the right to work from home in Victorian law — making it the first state in Australia to do so.
Speaking at Labor’s state conference on Saturday, Allan announced that the legislation will give employees in both the public and private sectors the legal right to work from home at least two days a week, provided their job can be “reasonably” done remotely.
“Work from home has changed millions of lives,” the Premier said.
“While not everyone can work from home, everyone can still benefit. Work from home works for families and it’s good for the economy.”
Although industrial relations are a federal matter, Allan said the state government would task the Department of Premier and Cabinet with leading consultations and drafting the legislation. The review will consider how the law would apply across industries and business sizes, as well as how remote work eligibility is defined.
The announcement has triggered early political friction. While the Victorian Opposition signalled conditional support, warning it would scrutinise the legislation closely, earlier comments from Coalition figures suggest a more hardline approach to public sector office mandates.
Opposition Leader Brad Battin said:
“We support measures that help Victorians enjoy a better work-life balance and will review any legislation closely to ensure it supports flexibility, productivity and personal choice.”
Shadow Treasurer James Newbury told the Herald Sun in February that public servants should be required to return to the office — a position that mirrors the federal Coalition’s failed attempt to curb work-from-home rights during the last election campaign, a move that contributed to voter backlash.
The proposed laws — expected to be drafted and introduced ahead of the November 2026 state election — aim to protect work-life balance, reduce commuting costs, ease congestion, and increase workforce participation, particularly for women, carers, and people with disabilities.
If passed, Victoria’s legislation would be the first of its kind in the country and could set a precedent for other states as debates about flexible work and productivity continue to reshape Australia’s employment landscape.
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