The Future of Work: Why Remote and Hybrid Models Are Here to Stay in Australia

The Shift to Remote Work

As political debate over workplace flexibility heats up ahead of the May federal election, new research from UNSW indicates that remote and hybrid work have firmly established themselves in Australia’s workforce.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has suggested a full-time return to the office for public servants, reflecting a more traditional view of work. However, data indicates this perspective may not align with the evolving work habits of Australians.

Manju Ahuja, a Scientia Professor at UNSW Business School, emphasizes that the transition to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a lasting change in workplace culture. Before the pandemic, only 13% of Australians worked remotely; this figure spiked to 37% during lockdowns and has stabilized since, marking a structural shift in how work is organized across the country.

“COVID is no longer the factor it was, but that’s where the number has stayed. I think that is going to continue, and we’re going to see a whole continuum of work models, from full-time office all the way to full-time remote,” Ahuja states.

Despite this shift, many managers express concerns regarding visibility and supervision. Ahuja notes, “It’s very hard to manage remote workers; you can’t manage what you don’t see.” Many managers feel uneasy about not knowing when employees are working or whether tasks are being completed effectively.

The absence of in-person interaction can impact mental health and team cohesion. While remote work can contribute to feelings of isolation for some employees, it has also alleviated stress for others, particularly those with sensory sensitivities or lengthy commutes.

Ahuja highlights broader equity concerns, noting that 63% of C-suite executives observed more women leaving jobs due to return-to-office mandates. This situation forces women to choose between career advancement and personal responsibilities, a trend likely to persist.

Ultimately, Ahuja believes that the social aspects of work will significantly influence whether employees choose to return to the office. “Work is more than just getting things done; it’s also about friendships, community, and a sense of belonging. If we want people to come back, that’s what will bring them back.”