INTHEBLACK March 2025 - Magazine - Page 49
How to
disconnect
Even with laws on the right to disconnect from work, it can be tricky to turn off.
Finding ways to balance work and life requires a combination of individual strategies
and organisational support.
Words Megan Breen
WORK–LIFE BALANCE SOUNDS GREAT IN THEORY,
but for many people, it can be difficult to achieve.
As digital tools bring us closer and make communication
more instant, they can also blur the line between work
and personal life, making it harder to disengage.
As more and more people work remotely, often from
home, this pressure to remain constantly connected has
highlighted the need for change, with some countries
moving to make it a legal right to switch off from work
after hours.
In August 2024, Australian employees gained a ‘right
to disconnect’ following significant amendments to the
Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth). This new legislation aims to
establish clear boundaries around out-of-hours work
communication. For small business employers, the right
to disconnect will come into effect on 26 August 2025.
Australia is not alone. Several European countries,
including France, Belgium, Portugal, Germany and Spain,
have had disconnect laws in place for a few years.
In Singapore, from 1 December 2024, all employers must
fairly consider formal requests from employees for flexible
work arrangements.
However, disconnecting from work is not always easy.
A study conducted by recruitment specialists
Robert Walters shows 40 per cent of Australians work
outside of working hours, including during annual leave,
and 71 per cent say they don't feel refreshed after
taking leave.
It is a situation that can negatively impact any business,
says Shay Peters, CEO of Robert Walters Australia and
New Zealand.
“Excessive work hours, constant connectivity and a lack
of work-life balance can result in decreased productivity
and increased turnover rates,” he says.
“In today's evolving job market, particularly in industries
where remote work is possible, acknowledging the
importance of allowing employees to disconnect has
become crucial in attracting professionals.”
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