Victoria to mandate remote work: a global first?

Melbourne, Australia – Victoria state is poised to become a global pioneer, legally enshrining a minimum of two days of remote work per week as a right for employees where feasible. The proposed legislation, spearheaded by Premier Jacinta Allan, is generating both excitement and concern among businesses.

The move aims to reshape work-life balance

The bill, slated to take effect September 1, 2026, would apply to both public and private sector organizations. This isn't just a policy suggestion; it's a legal obligation, potentially influencing how companies operate across developed nations. The initiative follows a surge in remote work adoption during the pandemic, with many businesses, including major players in mining, banking, and telecommunications based in Melbourne, already embracing hybrid models.

The government argues this shift will save families time and money, boost workforce participation, and improve work-life integration, particularly for parents. The legislation acknowledges the growing