In Australia, a “right to disconnect” regulation has now become law to relieve individuals who feel obligated to answer calls or respond to messages from their employers outside of their regular working hours.
Under the new legislation, employees are now allowed to disregard communications after work if they so decide, without facing repercussions from their superiors.
According to a survey released last year, Australians work an average of 281 hours of unpaid overtime annually. More than 20 countries, predominantly in Europe and Latin America, have introduced similar regulations.
Employers are not prohibited by law from reaching out to employees outside of work hours. Instead, employees have the right to choose not to respond unless their refusal is considered unreasonable.
According to the regulations, employers and employees are encouraged to settle disputes directly.
However, If this proves unsuccessful, Australia’s Fair Work Commission (FWC) can intervene to help find a resolution. The FWC can instruct the employer to avoid contacting employees after work hours. If the FWC determines an employee’s refusal to respond is unjustified, they can mandate a response. Failure to adhere to FWC directives can lead to fines of up to A$19,000 for an employee or up to A$94,000 for a company.
Worker advocacy organisations have expressed approval of this development.
The Australian Council of Trade Unions stated that it “will give workers the ability to reject unreasonable after-hours work communication, leading to better work-life balance.” they feel they have to do so.