Victoria Adds Dispute Pathway to Work-From-Home Law

The Victorian government has confirmed its proposed work-from-home legislation will include a formal dispute resolution process for employers and employees.


Premier Jacinta Allan said the government will introduce legislation in July to amend the Equal Opportunity Act and establish a legal right for eligible workers to work from home two days a week. If passed, the law is scheduled to begin on 1 September.


Following criticism from business groups, the government has introduced a delayed implementation for smaller workplaces. Businesses with fewer than 15 employees will have until 1 July 2027 before the requirement applies.


Victorian Treasurer Jaclyn Symes said the legislation will create a structured pathway for resolving disputes about work-from-home requests.


Under the proposed framework, complaints would first be referred to the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission for conciliation. If a resolution cannot be reached, the matter could then be taken to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.


The government said additional funding will be provided to the commission to manage the new responsibilities.


Symes said the decision to legislate through the Equal Opportunity Act was based on legal advice that the approach reduces the risk of constitutional challenges.


The proposal expands on earlier laws allowing workers with caring responsibilities to request flexible working arrangements.