Victoria's WFH Laws Push 43% of Businesses to Offshore Jobs: Report

A new report reveals that over 40% of businesses plan to send jobs offshore due to Victoria's new work-from-home laws. The legislation, introduced by the Allan government, grants Victorians the right to work from home two days per week if their role can be performed remotely. While the laws aim to save workers over $5,000 annually, businesses are responding by shifting hiring overseas.

Key Findings from the Report

The Navigating Workforce Transformation Report by Remote surveyed 500 HR leaders and 1,000 employees. It found:

• 43% of businesses would increase offshore hiring if the policy becomes law.
• 47% would shift to hiring contractors instead of permanent staff.
• 36% would move future hiring to other Australian states.

Business Leaders' Perspective

Remote’s APAC GTM lead Nick Martin stated: "Australian businesses are responding to industrial reform by changing how and where they hire. However, they’re discovering that the compliance burden doesn’t disappear, it compounds."

Employee Support for Pay Transparency

Additionally, 67% of employees would consider leaving their employer due to a lack of pay transparency, rising to 75% among those aged 25-34. This highlights a growing demand for openness in compensation.

Government's Stance

Victorian Treasurer Jaclyn Symes defended the laws: "Work from home is good for families, good for productivity and good for the economy." The government claims the laws will save workers over $5,000 per year.

Conclusion

The report underscores a tension between worker rights and business flexibility, with potential implications for Australia's job market.