“In the property sector alone, international investment has dropped off by more than 50 per cent in the past three years due to the state’s punitive tax settings. Policies like enshrining the right to work from home only add complexity and confusion to Victoria’s businesses, driving away potential growth business opportunities.
“Victoria’s economy is fragile, and every policy decision should be focused on attracting investment, creating jobs and driving economic growth.
“This is not a debate about flexible work. Flexibility is well-established across Victorian workplaces and is here to stay. Employers and employees are successfully negotiating arrangements that suit their individual circumstances, industries and business needs.
“But when Victoria needs to compete nationally and globally for investment, the government should be doing everything it can to improve business confidence and reduce barriers to growth.
“Legislating working from home arrangements sends the opposite message.
Ms Evans said workplace arrangements should remain a matter for employers and employees to determine based on the needs of individual businesses, industries and workers.
“What works for one business may not work for another. Some workplaces rely on in-person collaboration, mentoring and the sharing of ideas, while others are better suited to remote work.
“These decisions are best made by employers and employees, not imposed through legislation.” Ms Evans said.
