We need the right to disconnect

It is vital that workers can switch off from work and be properly paid for their hours worked – that includes being paid to be available to respond to work-related calls and emails.

To launch the ‘Clock Off and Switch Off’ campaign for the Right to Disconnect, the Australian Services Union surveyed people working in professional clerical and administrative roles about their work/life balance and unpaid overtime.

Our survey found 1 in 5 workers are doing an extra unpaid day of work each fortnight.

Does that sound like you? Join ASU members campaigning to win better work/life balance.

We need the right to clock off and switch off to:

• Ensure limits around working times are fundamental for all workers;
• End unpaid overtime;
• Protect workers from negative consequences for refusing contact outside of working hours; and
• Safeguard people from being pressured to be constantly connected or available to their employers.

The right to disconnect is becoming a reality across the world – in countries including France, Spain, Canada, Argentina, and Ireland.

It’s time for Australia to act.