Changes to flexible working arrangements (FWA) came into effect on 6 June 2023 under the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Secure Jobs, Better Pay) Act.
These changes include:
- updating the eligibility criteria for a FWA to include employees who are pregnant and experiencing family and domestic violence.
- Managers are required to meet with employees to discuss a request and consider any alternative arrangements that can be made to support the employee.
- additional information on what must be included in the written response to the employee when a request is declined.
- confirmation that any disputes regarding a FWA may be referred to the Fair Work Commission.
Employees seeking to request a FWA should speak with their manager first and explore possible flexible working options. Where a FWA agreement is reached, employees may complete and submit the Flexible Working Arrangements Request Form for approval.
Managers are able to use the People and Culture Flexible Working Arrangements Manager Checklist as a guide when considering requests for FWAs.
The existing procedure for FWAs and associated resources are currently being updated and will be communicated once finalised. In the meantime please speak with your People and Culture Business Partner about any current requests to ensure that the new requirements are met.
For more information, please review the FWA section of the Monash Health Intranet.
Approved by Silvana Sgro, Director, People and Culture Operations