Melbourne boss offers staff extra day off for celebrating Australia Day

THIS Melbourne boss is so determined to save Australia Day, that he’s offered to give his staff an extra day off over the long weekend. But there’s a catch.

Nick Neda and Robert DiPierdomenico are encouraging people to celebrate Australia Day. Picture: Jason Edwards

A MELBOURNE boss has offered to give his staff an extra day off, in an extraordinary campaign to save Australia Day.

Nick Neda, the chief executive of Melbourne start-up Ineda said his staff did not have to worry about coming to work on Monday — provided they can prove they spent our national day celebrating with family and friends.

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The initiative has been backed by AFL legend Robert DiPierdomenico, who warned Australia Day had become too politicised.

“We all come from different cultures but have one thing in common,’’ Dippa said. “We’re proud Aussies.’’

Mr Neda, who runs the fledgling company — a reverse bidding platform for goods and services — encouraged his staff to post pictures on social media at barbecues and parties. “Some companies had unfortunately decided to politicise Australia Day, making it divisive,” he said.

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“We want to encourage our staff, no matter their background, to celebrate everything about our great country.

“We want to make sure it’s a great weekend for all our staff, regardless of race, religion or gender.’’