Australia is on the verge of enacting a groundbreaking law that grants employees the “right to disconnect,” allowing them to refuse unreasonable calls from employers outside of regular work hours without facing penalties. The proposed changes are part of a broader parliamentary bill addressing industrial relations laws introduced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s government.
The “right to disconnect” initiative is seen as a crucial step towards safeguarding workers’ rights and promoting a healthier work-life balance. The legislation includes provisions for potential fines against employers who breach these rules.
The bill, known as the Labor party’s “closing loopholes” bill, aims to address gaps that may undercut workers’ pay and conditions. It has garnered support from the majority of senators, including deals with smaller parties and independents.
Prime Minister Albanese emphasized the importance of the legislation, stating that workers who are not compensated for 24-hour availability should not be penalized if they choose not to be online and available around the clock.
Similar laws already exist in various European countries, including France and Spain, giving employees the right to disconnect from official devices after work hours.
Employment Minister Tony Burke, from the ruling center-left Labor party, confirmed that a parliamentary majority has been reached to pass the bill. He highlighted that the legislation would prevent unpaid overtime and unreasonable contact outside of regular work hours.
Barbara Pocock, the Greens’ spokesperson on workplace relations, clarified that the “right to disconnect” applies to all employees but does not disrupt situations where being on call is part of the job or during emergencies.
Employees feeling unreasonably contacted are encouraged to address the matter with their employer. If the issue persists, they have the option to escalate it to the Fair Work Commission for a stop order, potentially resulting in fines for non-compliance by the employer.
In addition to the “right to disconnect,” the bill encompasses other provisions, such as creating a clearer pathway from temporary to permanent employment and establishing minimum standards for temporary workers and truck drivers.
While opponents argue that the provision may impact flexibility and competitiveness, Greens leader Adam Bandt hailed the development as a significant victory. Bandt emphasized that Australians work an average of six weeks of unpaid overtime each year, amounting to A$92 billion (£47 billion) in unpaid wages across the economy.
“That time is yours. Not your boss’,” said Bandt.
