Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has withdrawn his party’s proposal to require public servants to return to the office full-time if elected. Initially, the Coalition aimed to boost productivity by ending remote work policies. However, the plan received significant criticism, especially from unions and working mothers, who felt it targeted flexible work options. Dutton later admitted the policy was a mistake and apologized, stressing the importance of moving past the controversy.
Additionally, the Coalition has abandoned its earlier promise to cut the public service by 41,000 positions through forced redundancies. Instead, any job reductions will now occur through natural attrition and a hiring freeze. Dutton acknowledged that the original plan was flawed, emphasizing the need for efficient use of taxpayer money.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticized the Coalition’s stance, drawing comparisons to controversial figures like U.S. President Donald Trump. Labor officials also raised concerns that the policy would disproportionately impact women due to childcare responsibilities.
These developments show how work-from-home policies are influencing Australia’s election campaign and voter sentiment.
