The new normal

17 July 2023

Recently, a number of corporate entities had their working from home arrangements highlighted in the media. 

Their employees tended to range from almost no time required in the office to between two and three days onsite.  But not everybody is happy about it.

Former Victorian premier Jeff Kennett even suggested those working from home should have their pay cut.

Whatever side of the fence you live on, this is a devisive debate.

Further fuel to the fire comes via recent reports highlighting the plight of bush retreaters who, during COVID, purchased property in the leafy inclines of Victoria and, understandably, feel a bit resistant to returning to the office five days a week. 

And best of luck to them - they get office-based employment with the benefits of a regional life. This, however, creates a problem for you and me.

The auto industry has a skills deficit, which means you’ll have to wait for servicing and repairs. So, in this climate, how does industry compete where apprentices are required to be full-time in a workshop?   

Much work has been done to raise the profile of the auto industry, to attract new apprentices and retain its current workforce but, faced with full-time work in a dedicated workplace versus the flexibilities of working from home, we may find our anticipated army of automotive workers have decided banging the keyboard in the regions is a better idea.       

With the automotive industry having over 35,000 vacant jobs nationally, I certainly hope not.

As published in the Herald Sun, 14 July 2023