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Fair Work Commission approves WFH request rights for Clerks Award workers
The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has introduced a new model for work-from-home (WFH) arrangements under the Clerks Award. The decision allows administrative workers, such as receptionists and payroll staff, to formally request flexible work arrangements in writing. While the FWC supported this right to request, it declined to mandate that employers must approve such requests, ruling against a major regulatory intervention.
The Commission noted that many existing informal WFH arrangements may currently be non-compliant with Award requirements regarding continuous working hours and meal breaks. The new clause aims to formalize these arrangements to ensure they are documented and compliant with workplace standards.
Separately, in Victoria, proposed legislation that would grant employees a legal right to work from home two days a week per week has faced delays. The bill, which the state government intends to pass by 2026, is currently facing scrutiny from business groups and political opposition regarding its potential impact on the employment system.
Entities
Australian Industry Group · Ben Carroll · Clerks Award · Fair Work Commission · Victorian Government
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Commission noted that many existing informal work-from-home arrangements may be non-compliant with current Award requirements regarding hours and breaks. citationgroup.com.au
- [● 2 SOURCES] A new clause allows employees to request work-from-home arrangements in writing, which employers may then agree to. citationgroup.com.au · www.smartcompany.com.au
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Victorian government aims to pass legislation granting employees the right to work from home two days a week by 2026. www.perthnow.com.au
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Commission refused to mandate that employers must accept work-from-home requests. citationgroup.com.au · www.smartcompany.com.au
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Business groups have expressed opposition to proposed work-from-home laws in Victoria. www.perthnow.com.au
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Fair Work Commission supported a new right for office workers under the Clerks Award to request working from home. citationgroup.com.au · www.smartcompany.com.au