Work from home twice a week? Australian state to make it a legal right

Workers in the Australian state of Victoria will gain a legal right to work from home up to two days a week from September 1 under proposed legislation announced by Premier Jacinta Allan.

The Victorian Government said the law will apply to employees whose jobs can reasonably be performed remotely, making Victoria the first jurisdiction in Australia to legislate such a right.

The measure is set to be introduced through amendments to Victoria’s Equal Opportunity Act and is expected to come into effect on September 1, 2026. Small workplaces with fewer than 15 employees will receive a delayed commencement until July 2027.

Premier Jacinta Allan said the policy is aimed at making life easier for families by reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proposal has drawn mixed reactions, with supporters praising greater flexibility for workers, while some business groups have raised concerns over its impact on employers and productivity.

The law applies only to the state of Victoria and not across Australia.

(Newswire)