What Does the Recent Work from Home Decision Mean for You?

podcast Nov 12, 2025
People Powered Business
What Does the Recent Work from Home Decision Mean for You?
22:25
 

Hello and welcome to Episode 297 of the People Powered Business Podcast!

In this episode, we explore a significant new ruling from the Fair Work Commission that could impact every Australian employer managing flexible work arrangements. The case involves a long-term Westpac employee and her right to continue working from home, and the decision has sent ripples through workplaces of all sizes.

We unpack what happened, what the Fair Work Commission decided, and what the case means for business owners navigating the tricky terrain of hybrid and remote work. You’ll also hear about other developments you should have on your radar.

What You’ll Learn

  • The details of the Westpac flexible work case and why it matters
  • What “reasonable business grounds” actually means under the Fair Work Act
  • Why following process is just as important as your policy
  • The risks of rejecting flexible work requests without proper documentation
  • Upcoming changes and trends in remote work regulation

 

Key Takeaway:

This case is a wake-up call for every employer. Flexible work isn’t just a cultural conversation, it’s a compliance issue. If you're going to refuse a request, you need to back it up with detailed, evidence-based business reasons and follow the process to the letter.

 

Links & Resources:

💬 DM Kristy-Lee on Instagram @kristy.lee.billett and let me know if you have questions about work from home entitlements or email me at [email protected] 

 

An Invitation:

If you’d like to connect with other businesses who are also juggling the challenges of teams, I’d love you to join us inside our free Facebook Group, The People Powered Community, so I can learn more about what’s working for you and any challenges you might be having.

Join Here - https://www.facebook.com/groups/hrsupportaustralia

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