Manufacturing Industry Demands Clarity on Proposed Work-From-Home Legislation: What It Means for Remote Work Policies

Manufacturing stakeholders are calling for clearer guidance on proposed work-from-home legislation, with the South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) urging policymakers to consider industry realities and legislative limits.

SEMMA said clarity is needed around the manufacturing sector’s position on the proposed policy, noting that industrial relations laws, including workplace flexibility arrangements, are primarily governed at the federal level, which may limit the Victorian government’s ability to introduce state-specific rules.

The organisation said expanding work-from-home arrangements may offer benefits for some sectors, such as public administration roles and workers seeking greater flexibility, but stressed that many small and medium-sized manufacturing businesses already work directly with employees to negotiate practical workplace arrangements.

“Work from home should be applied to industries where practical,” said SEMMA CEO Honi Walker, acknowledging that remote working models may suit certain roles but are not universally applicable across the economy.

SEMMA also cautioned against politicising the issue during an election year, arguing that uncertainty around the proposal could create expectations that may not be achievable if legislative authority does not align with policy ambitions.

The organisation encouraged the Victorian government to communicate the legal and administrative limits of state-level action on industrial relations while recognising that greater flexibility may benefit eligible sectors.

SEMMA further said a universal work-from-home mandate could overlook the role of workers in industries that require physical presence to operate, including healthcare, emergency services, education, hospitality, transport, and retail support roles.

“As manufacturers, we respectfully request that the government continue to allow private industry to negotiate directly with employees, as is currently practiced,” Walker said.

“No changes to legislation are necessary for industries where existing arrangements are working well. What is required is common sense, clarity, and clear communication.”