Flexibility in the workplace is now recognised as a valuable tool in achieving greater business productivity. This approach supports a work life balance, a concept providing the flexibility necessary for Employees to manage the balance between what needs to be achieved at work and their personal commitments outside the workplace.

There has never been a better time to implement workplace flexibility. In this economic climate, flexibility (e.g. reduced hours, job share, telecommuting and working from home etc) offers a smart way to reduce overheads and meet employee needs for great work-life balance. Research also shows that implementing flexibility will help improve productivity through its association with increased levels of engagement, job-satisfaction and well-being. With the ageing of the population and changing labor market conditions, adopting a flexible approach to work will assist in attracting a diverse workforce including people with disabilities.


Work Life Balance

Work life balance issues are receiving increasing attention at International, National and Local level. In Australia and New Zealand, all tiers of Government and many private sector companies are recognising the benefits of work life balance initiatives. The (Australian) Federal Parliament recently approved the introduction of National Employment Standards alternative working arrangements as new legislation aimed at employees with young kids "formalises" and "normalises" flexibility across the board,

The introduction of extended flexibility in the workplace is set to be beneficial for Employees and Businesses alike as parents with children up to the age of 16 will be able to request more flexible working hours.

The term 'work life balance' describes a person's ability to effectively manage their paid work commitments with their career goals, family, carer's, personal, community and cultural responsibilities, interests and obligations. Work-life balance is achieved when an individual's right to an enriched life both within and outside paid work is recognised and valued