Overview
- Cabinet confirmed no blanket exemption for small businesses, extending the entitlement to employees of any workplace where duties can reasonably be done remotely.
- The bill is scheduled for introduction in July, with commencement on September 1, 2026, and a delayed start until July 2027 for workplaces with fewer than 15 employees.
- The reform will make it unlawful to discriminate against workers who reasonably insist on two remote days a week, with roles that cannot be done from home excluded.
- Major business groups including the Victorian Chamber, Ai Group and COSBOA oppose the plan, warning of costs, compliance burdens and potential investment risks.
- Premier Jacinta Allan cites legal advice that the model is constitutionally valid and argues it will lift productivity and save families up to $5,000 a year, while Opposition Leader Jess Wilson awaits the final bill details.