Australia has recently implemented a 'right to disconnect' law, joining a growing global movement to address work-related stress and burnout. The legislation, which took effect at the end of August 2024, aims to protect employees from unreasonable out-of-hours contact by employers.
The new law preserves employees' rights to refuse monitoring, reading, or responding to work-related communications outside their working hours, unless such refusal is deemed unreasonable. This move aligns Australia with several European countries and Canada, which have already implemented similar measures.
Glen Day, a Gold Coast restaurant owner, expressed surprise at the law's introduction, stating, "It just came out of the blue. I thought 'what? Where is that coming from?'" His reaction reflects concerns shared by many business owners who view the legislation as potentially burdensome.
The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry's head, Andrew McKeller, described the law as "a triumph of stupidity over common sense." Business leaders worry about the impact on productivity and flexibility, especially in challenging economic times.
However, advocates argue that the law addresses critical mental health issues. A Safe Work Australia report earlier in 2024 revealed a 36.9% increase in work-related mental health issues since 2018. This alarming trend has garnered support for measures to help employees disconnect from work.
Anthony Albanese, the Australian Prime Minister, defended the law, stating, "What we're simply saying is that someone who is not being paid 24 hours a day shouldn't be penalised if they're not online and available 24 hours a day."
"What we're simply saying is that someone who is not being paid 24 hours a day shouldn't be penalised if they're not online and available 24 hours a day."
The legislation comes amid growing global concern about the impact of long working hours on health. A 2021 joint analysis by the World Health Organization and International Labour Organisation found increased risks of heart disease and stroke among people working over 55 hours per week.
Dr. Carys Chan, a senior lecturer at Griffith University, noted that work-related technological use after office hours contributes to stress, anxiety, and depression. She argues that respecting privacy and allowing employees time to recover will ultimately benefit productivity.
It's worth noting that the law has limitations. It doesn't apply to small businesses with fewer than 15 employees and outlines factors determining the reasonableness of out-of-hours communications.
Dr. Andrew Dhaenens from the University of South Wales business school predicts that industry objections will be short-lived. He anticipates companies will adjust by better defining working hours and compensation for responsibilities.
As Australia navigates this new legislation, its experience may provide valuable insights for other countries considering similar measures. The UK Labour Party, for instance, promised to introduce a 'right to switch off' before the July 2024 election.
The global workplace stress management market, valued at $8.7 billion in 2021, underscores the economic significance of addressing work-related stress. With the average person checking their phone 96 times a day, the need for clear boundaries between work and personal life has never been more apparent.
As the debate continues, the 'right to disconnect' law represents a significant step in addressing the challenges of the modern workplace, balancing productivity with employee well-being in an increasingly connected world.