‘About time’: Aussies react to WFH decision for public servants

Thousands of workers have been ordered back to their desks, officially ending the work from home era. Businesses have backed in the premier’s call but not everyone’s happy. Have your say.

NSW public servants have been ordered back to the office in a move to fill cubicle seats after the Minns government sent a government-wide memorandum to all departments, it comes as hundreds of commenters labelled the move as one made of “common sense.” 

The decision to bring all public servants back to the office follows a campaign by The Daily Telegraph advocating for a return to in-office work, citing struggles faced by businesses in the CBD due to the prevalence of remote work. 

Business leaders have urged workers to return to the city, as the CBD has often been nearly deserted on certain days, especially Fridays.

But now the government faces a challenge in accommodating all its staff back in the office, with several buildings expected to lack sufficient space for the full return of employees.

Minns’ decision sparked a heated debate among hundreds of users, who took to The Daily Telegraph’s coverage to express their frustrations and differing opinions.

An empty Pitt St in Sydney’s CBD. Picture: Toby Zerna

“GREAT work Chris Minns! This is long overdue. Hey Albanese, take note - this is an example of Leadership,” Johnny said. 

“Might be his best call, hate to admit,” Salvatore added. 

An increasing number of empty chairs and tables are evident across Sydney's CBD during weekday lunchtimes. Photo: Tom Parrish

“We all know those that work from home are bludging,” Trent said. 

“It will free the golf courses up,” Michael commented. 

“About time, great decision. Now hopefully productivity will increase,” User superstar said. 

But hundreds weren’t convinced by the decision, calling the move unrealistic and out of touch. 

“Office work was a short-term blip the boomers for some reason want to subject others to because they did. Think about the future. Work in the future is different,” J said. 

“Clog up public transport and buy a coffee and sandwich for $25. Sounds awesome,” David commented. 

NSW Premier Chris Minns wants all public servants back in the CBD. Picture: NewsWire / Nikki Short

“Believe it when I see it,” Martin added. 

Prepare for sickies to increase massively,” Kevin said. 

But while more than dozens commented “about time”, others made light of the decision. 

“But how am I going to have my afternoon snooze?” Kay Curry said. 

“The years-long holiday is over. Hahaha,” Dead commented. 

Australian businessman Mark Bouris emphasised the importance of maintaining a presence in the office, warning that companies might otherwise opt to hire international talent at a significantly lower cost.

“But a really interesting thing about that, if for example, everybody wanted to work from home for five days, therefore you’re not going to see these individuals,” he told 2GB’s Ben Fordham on Tuesday. 

“Then why don’t they just go and employ these employees in the Philippines to do this work, much cheaper. 

“I think it’s really important for people to come into the office at least three times a week.” 

If a public servant wishes to work from home there will need to be formal approval, with workers to give reasons for the need for hybrid arrangements. 

These will need to be reviewed regularly. If public servants wish to conduct work from outside NSW — say, from another state — it would need to be approved by the head of the department.

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