Australian workers now have the freedom to take a break from work outside of work hours, ensuring work-life balance. The August 28, 2024, law allows Australian workers to ignore supervisor emails and calls after hours unless they are “unreasonable.”
This ground-breaking regulation is a component of a larger set of labor reforms intended to address the blurring of personal and professional life that has accelerated since the pandemic due to digital communication and remote working. The Australian Labour Party passed these laws to enable workers to unplug and spend time with their families.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stressed that staff not paid 24/7 should not be expected to be available 24/7. The regulation encourages organisations to improve communication and job efficiency to create a healthy workplace.
Some business groups are concerned about the impact on productivity, but experts say this legislation could boost workplace efficiency by encouraging smarter work techniques. Australia joins France, Germany, and Canada in implementing the right to disconnect, a move considered crucial to limiting overwork and improving employee well-being.
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