The Australian Council for Trade Unions (ACTU) is advocating for a four-day work week to become a standard practice across the nation; however, the prime minister and treasurer have announced there are currently no plans to implement such a change. The primary trade union body argues that shortening working hours is crucial for enhancing productivity while also elevating living standards.

Prime minister, treasurer say ‘no plans’ to adopt policy

The ACTU proposes that in scenarios where a four-day work week isn’t feasible, alternatives like providing more rostered days off, increasing annual leave, and reorganizing work schedules can be utilized. They anticipate that the four-day work week model will preserve the current pay rates and conditions.

Prime Minister Albanese mentioned that the government does not plan to adopt this concept but acknowledged that the union has the right to propose any ideas it wishes. “Our priority in industrial relations includes eliminating non-compete clauses, securing penalty rates, and expanding paid parental leave… That constitutes our industrial relations agenda and drives our mission,” he stated.

Australians are working longer hours

The four-day work week is one potential strategy. A study conducted in 2023 by Swinburne University analyzed 10 Australian businesses attempting a four-day work week. The research revealed that 70% of these companies experienced heightened productivity, while the remaining 30% reported productivity levels consistent with the pre-trial phase.

Another study that underwent rigorous peer review indicated that a four-day work week could enhance both employee satisfaction and productivity. In a survey involving 2,896 individuals employed in four-day week roles across Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Ireland, shorter work weeks were linked to improved performance, reduced burnout, and better worker health and retention.

‘Shaking the tree for ideas’

Nonetheless, not all organizations are keen on moving in this direction. The Australian Financial Review highlighted that several major banks are adjusting their work culture strategies following Westpac’s chief executive Anthony Miller’s memo from December last year, which described his routine of working “every day, including Christmas Day.”

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