Victoria Government’s “Universal Right to Work from Home” Sparks Backlash from Smaller Businesses

Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan confirmed on March 2, 2026, that the government’s proposed new law granting workers the “right to work from home two days per week” will apply to all businesses, with no exemptions for small companies.

The state government claims to have obtained legal advice confirming the plan’s constitutionality. Authorities argue that remote work can boost labor participation among women, particularly new mothers, thereby enhancing productivity. Although exempting small businesses was previously considered, the Premier emphasized that “fairness” requires employees at small companies to enjoy the same rights as those working for major banks.

The bill applies to positions where remote work is “reasonably feasible,” though specific enforcement mechanisms and details remain undisclosed. The Victorian Chamber of Commerce criticized the move as a heavy “regulatory burden.” Business leaders warned the legislation would increase administrative costs and could even force some companies to relocate operations to other states or overseas to avoid complex personnel regulations.