Australia’s ‘Right to Disconnect’ campaign faces flexibility concerns
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA — Law and employer groups are challenging the Australian Services Union’s campaign to establish the “right to disconnect” in the Fair Work Act. They argue it could compromise flexible work schedules and global competitiveness.
The campaign, initiated after a study revealed 70% of 154 clerical workers often worked extra hours, has sparked debate.
Detractors believe a blanket right to disconnect fails to consider varying workplace norms. They suggest that individual firms and their employees should be left to negotiate their policies to ensure workers can disconnect from work.
Sally Moten from Lander & Rogers insists on tailor-made solutions, citing the impracticality of a universal approach.
Industrial law expert Ian Neil noted the potential disruption of flexible work models and disregard for personal circumstances.
Moreover, Jessica Tinsley from the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry also expressed concerns, highlighting that such a universal right doesn’t suit the needs of the round-the-clock modern economy and could hurt global competitiveness.
However, Emeline Gaske from the Australian Services Union underscores the necessity of the right to disconnect, stating that their study highlights how most employees don’t feel that they can say no to the increasing expectation that they will take work home with them.
