Australia has introduced a new law granting employees the right to disconnect from work-related communications after hours, without fear of reprisal.
Employees Can Still Reach Out
According to Digi24 the law, now in effect, allows workers to ignore calls, emails, and messages from their employers once their workday has ended, unless responding is deemed reasonable under specific circumstances.
This move is part of a broader global trend, with over 20 countries, primarily in Europe and Latin America, implementing similar regulations.
The legislation addresses a growing concern about unpaid overtime, with a study last year estimating that Australians were working an average of 281 hours of unpaid overtime annually.
While the law does not prevent employers from reaching out to employees after hours, it empowers workers to choose not to respond, fostering a better work-life balance.
Fines Up to19,000 AUD
If disputes arise over after-hours communication, the Australian Fair Work Commission (FWC) can intervene.
The FWC has the authority to instruct employers to cease contacting employees outside of work hours or, conversely, to require employees to respond if their refusal is deemed unreasonable. Non-compliance with FWC orders can result in fines of up to AUD 19,000 for individuals and AUD 94,000 for companies.
The new law has been welcomed by worker organizations, with the Australian Council of Trade Unions praising it as a step toward ensuring a healthier balance between professional and personal life.
John Hopkins, a labor expert from Swinburne University of Technology, highlighted the benefits for employers, noting that well-rested employees are less likely to take sick leave or quit their jobs.
Reactions among employees have been mixed. Some, like Rachel Abdelnour from the advertising industry, view the law as essential, emphasizing the difficulty of disconnecting in a hyper-connected world. Others, particularly in high-pressure fields like finance, are skeptical about its impact.
David Brennan, a finance professional, expressed doubts, saying, "We are well-paid, and there’s an expectation to deliver around the clock."
