Two days' compulsory teleworking: a historic turning point for employees in this state

©Claudio Schwarz via Unsplash

The Australian state of Victoria is preparing for a turning point that promises to fuel debate in the work place. The Labor government, led by Premier Jacinta Allan, has unveiled a bill to make telecommuting a genuine legal right for millions of employees.

Under this measure, employees in both the public and private sectors will be able to work remotely for two days a week, where their duties allow. The aim is to formalize a practice that has become widespread in recent years, particularly since the pandemic. If passed, the law would come into force as early as September, while small businesses would have more time to adapt, with a deadline set for July 2027.

Melbourne at the heart of change

The economic heart of this transformation is none other than Melbourne, capital of the state of Victoria and one of Australia's most dynamic cities. The metropolis is home to the headquarters of some of the country's largest companies, including BHP, Rio Tinto, ANZ Bank and Telstra, as well as major pension funds and financial companies.

In such a strategic economic context, the government's proposal takes on special significance. Making teleworking a right could revolutionize the way work is organized in one of the southern hemisphere's major economic hubs. For many employees, this is a long-awaited step forward. Working from home means fewer hours spent in traffic jams, more family time and a better work-life balance.

Government position and employee support

Prime Minister Jacinta Allan has been an outspoken advocate of the scheme, arguing that teleworking offers tangible benefits for families. According to the Labor government, allowing employees to work from home for a few days a week can reduce commuting costs, improve quality of life and encourage participation in the workforce for many parents. It's no coincidence that this reform has become one of the central planks of Labour's election manifesto for the November local elections.

Business doubts and opposition criticism

While the idea enjoys broad support among employees, enthusiasm is far more nuanced among managers. A number of executives fear that the obligation to guarantee telecommuting days will complicate team management and reduce operational efficiency.

The liberal opposition also expressed strong reservations, describing telecommuting models as "unsustainable", particularly in the public sector. Some employers' organizations went even further in their criticism, arguing that the introduction of this law could encourage some companies to relocate jobs to other Australian states.

A reform that could change the work place

The debate remains open, but one thing is clear: if the law is passed, Victoria would become one of the first jurisdictions in the world to officially recognize telecommuting as a structural right. A decision that could go far beyond Australia's borders. At a time when the link between technology, productivity and quality of life is at the heart of global debates, Victoria's decision could become a model for many other countries to follow.

(©GreenMe.it 2026/Managing editor: Selma Keshkire - The Press Junction/Picture: Claudio Schwarz via Unsplash)