Victorian businesses reject Government overreach on remote work legislation

The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Victorian businesses have delivered a clear and united message to the State Government: legislating a mandatory right to work from home (WFH) is unnecessary, damaging and out of step with workplace reality.

Results from the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Committee for Melbourne’s Remote Work Entitlement Survey show that businesses are already offering flexible working arrangements without the need for government intervention.

• 76 per cent of businesses already provide flexible work arrangements, such as working from home.
• 77 per cent require a minimum attendance in the workplace, most commonly three days per week.
• 63 per cent have a formal WFH policy and 19 per cent already provide three days of WFH.
• 62 per cent of respondents oppose the Government’s proposal to legislate a two-day minimum, with only 30 per cent in favour.

The survey found the greatest losers from enshrined WFH rights would be young Victorians, who risk missing out on vital professional development opportunities including mentoring, networking and informal learning.

The findings also highlight a broader warning: 56 per cent of Victorian businesses report it is harder to operate in Victoria compared to other states, with many citing high taxes, regulatory burdens and escalating costs. More than one third of businesses said they would look to expand operations and hire staff outside Victoria if WFH legislation is introduced.

The Victorian Chamber and Committee for Melbourne urge the Government to listen to business and focus on policies that reduce costs and strengthen competitiveness rather than creating unnecessary obligations that harm productivity and the next generation of workers.

To be attributed to Sally Curtain, Chief Executive, Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry:

“These results send a resounding message to Government: business is already delivering flexible arrangements with their employees - there is no problem that needs fixing. In other words, “We’ve got this”.

“Business is providing flexibility because it makes sense for staff wellbeing, productivity and retention – but there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Legislating this is a waste – and worse it will harm young people, deplete Victoria’s competitiveness and unnecessarily add cost and red-tape.  

“Mandating remote work would entrench barriers for young people at the start of their careers. Instead of boosting opportunities, it will limit career progression, social connection and long-term earning potential.” 

To be attributed to Scott Veenker, Chief Executive, Committee for Melbourne

“Melbourne is already at a disadvantage compared to other states when it comes to business competitiveness. Adding another layer of red tape on businesses that are already providing flexible working arrangements risks driving jobs and investment interstate.

“Melbourne’s future workforce must have opportunities to connect, learn and grow in person. Locking in remote work rights risks stripping away the very experiences that help young Victorians build successful careers while placing yet another burden on doing business in this state.

“Rather than adding more red tape, the Government’s focus should be on creating the conditions that attract investment, encourage enterprise and underpin a thriving economy in our global city.”

Mikkayla Mossop, [email protected], 0423 883 945