We’re working longer hours than ever before and swift advancements in technology mean we’re still linked in, even when we’ve logged out.
The workplace has become more competitive with much higher staff turnover. All employers want is some long-term commitment and loyalty but many employees feel they’re being offered little security in return.
All this conflict of interest and we haven’t even addressed the issue of that thing we keep running out of time for… what’s it called again? Oh yeah, “a life”.
It’s crucial for a successful business, that flexible arrangements are adopted to maintain a good, happy balance for employer and employee. The benefits are reduced absenteeism, improved morale, increased productivity and all round good times!
So it’s great to hear about two government initiatives focused on aiding and establishing better work-life balance policies in Australian workplaces.
THE FIRST ONE IS…
The Fresh Ideas for Work and Family initiative, providing grants of $5000 – $15000 to encourage small businesses to implement family friendly work policies and practices.
Some examples of family friendly work arrangements include:
- Providing facilities such as family rooms for employees with young children.
- Creating rosters based on school terms and alternative core hours, for example, 10am to 3pm.
- Establishing quality part-time work or job-sharing opportunities.
Applications are open now until 24 April 2009. Find out more by visiting the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations’ website, or call the Workplace Infoline on 1300 363 264. An application form for the grant can be downloaded here.
THE SECOND ONE IS…
The national What’s On Your Mind campaign; your chance to make some noise about a number of social topics that affect us all – one of them being the existence of ‘work-life balance’ in our nation.
All Australians are being invited to decide the social or cultural issue that is most on their minds, by using our democratic right to vote! The issue chosen by popular demand will become the topic of debate in a national public forum.
The What’s On Your Mind debate takes place on May 8 [2009] at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. The debate candidates – a team of familiar Aussie faces – can be voted for, too.
To check out the topics, get a vote in and make your own comments about these important issues visit the What’s On Your Mind website.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Couldn’t agree with you more! You can now vote from a list of well known Aussies, including journalist Tracey Spicer and actress Erika Heynatz, to present their views at the”What’s On Your Mind” national debate. Will be really interesting to see the most popular topic and final personalities announced!
Thank you very much for sharing this article! Balance is quite a challenge at times. I tend to over work and am considered a workaholic by some. I like your blog and am happy we’ve connected! Thank you for the comment on my blog as well.