BCSDA to Make Submission on Victoria’s Proposed Right to Work from Home Legislation

SYDNEY, 18 AUGUST 2025 - The Business Council for Sustainable Development Australia (BCSDA) will make a formal submission in response to the Victorian Government’s consultation on proposed legislation to guarantee the right to work from home (WFH) for at least two days per week for eligible employees.

Announced by Premier Jacinta Allan, the proposed law would establish a formal entitlement to flexible work arrangements across both the public and private sectors, provided the role is suitable for remote work. The consultation process aims to define which businesses and employees would be covered under the legislation.

BCSDA welcomes the consultation as an opportunity to shape policy that balances workforce participation, business productivity, and social equity. As part of our Equity Action agenda, we support efforts to reduce barriers to employment, particularly for women, caregivers, and people with disability, and recognise that formalising flexible work rights could unlock new participation pathways for underrepresented groups.

At the same time, BCSDA’s submission will explore how the proposed legislation intersects with existing workplace regulations, operational models, and business autonomy. For many organisations, adapting to a legislated WFH entitlement would require a review of HR policies, role design, and performance management frameworks. For some, particularly in essential services and complex team-based environments, this shift may introduce operational considerations that require tailored responses.

The Victorian Government has highlighted potential economic benefits for workers, including an estimated $110 in weekly savings on commuting costs and reduced travel time. These gains, coupled with the flexibility to better balance work and caregiving responsibilities, may help businesses attract and retain talent in a competitive labour market. BCSDA recognises the potential for a more inclusive and productive workforce, but also notes the importance of implementation flexibility, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises.

Public discussion, including from legal experts, has raised questions about the legislation’s constitutional foundation. Combined with responses from business groups about employer autonomy and investment confidence, this indicates the need for a balanced approach that protects business interests while delivering public benefit. BCSDA’s submission will reflect the diversity of our member base and advocate for practical, clear guidance to support effective implementation should the legislation proceed.

About BCSD Australia 

The Business Council for Sustainable Development Australia is a non-profit organisation dedicated to operationalising sustainable development practices among Australian businesses.  BCSD Australia was established in Australia in 1991 and works with over 70 leading global businesses and other organisations to drive systemic transformation in key sectors, advocating for sustainable leadership and rewarding action through education, partnerships, and policy influence.

In 2014 the organisation was appointed Australia’s Network Partner for World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD).

BCSD Australia’s members believe that by integrating social and environmental impacts with financial results, business lowers its risk profile, makes better decisions and creates the solutions needed to meet the Sustainable Development Goals.

BCSD Australia’s members include leading Australian businesses, from all sectors, who share a commitment to economic, environmental and social development. It represents member companies, public sector enterprises and institutions, BINGOs and community organisations, which in turn represent 120,000 + Australian employees. www.bcsda.org.au.

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For further information contact: Andrew Petersen, CEO, Business Council for Sustainable Development Australia, +61 412 545 994