Introduction to Flexible Work Options
Flexible work arrangements have become an essential aspect of modern employment, especially for employees with disabilities. This article explores what flexible work can look like and how both employers and employees can benefit from these arrangements.
Understanding Flexible Work Arrangements
Flexible working arrangements are adjustments made to standard working conditions to help employees with disabilities balance their professional and personal needs. Under the Fair Work Act, these employees have the right to request such arrangements, provided they meet specific criteria.
Types of Flexible Working Arrangements
Flexible work can take various forms, including:
Eligibility and Requesting Flexibility
Full-time and part-time employees with disabilities are eligible to request flexible working arrangements after 12 months with the same employer. Casual employees can also request these arrangements if they have been working regularly and systematically for the same employer for at least 12 months and expect to continue doing so.
Procedures for Requests
Employees can learn more about the rules for making, considering, and responding to flexible working arrangement requests through the Fair Work Commission’s guidelines on ‘Flexible working arrangements’.
Registered Agreements
Employees covered by a registered agreement should review their specific terms, as these agreements may offer more generous rules or entitlements regarding flexible work. These agreements can be found on the Fair Work Commission’s website under ‘Find an agreement’.
Supporting Flexible Work
Employers are encouraged to adopt best practices for supporting flexible work. This includes: