Labor’s election plan to consider four-day work week

Millions of Australians could soon be working a shortened work week if their next state election goes a certain way.

A four-day working week could soon be a realistic prospect for millions of Victorians if the state government retains power at the next election.

The switch up is part of a slate of changes proposed in Labor’s draft platform containing policies it plans to take to voters on November 26.

Proposed policies in the document, which was uncovered by The Age, include reinstating the Workers Family Picnic Day and making Christmas Eve after 6pm a public holiday.

Gas would also be reserved for local use to ensure the state’s production “directly serves the interests of Victorian households and businesses”.

Fifteen per cent of total parking spaces in the state would remain free for fast food and retail workers under the plan.

The Outer Metropolitan Ring Rail Line, which is designed to connect the Hume Freeway in Melbourne’s north to the Princes Freeway southwest of the city, is also a priority.

Daniel Andrews’ government could implement statewide changes if he’s voted in for another term. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Andrew Henshaw

Unions and rank-and-file members of the party, including the United Firefighters Union, campaigned heavily for Andrews back in 2014.

However, union secretary Peter Marshall said the UFU was “not provided an opportunity to comment on the draft” despite its long association with the ALP.

“This demonstrates the hypocrisy of the ALP. If the ALP wants something, they won’t hesitate knocking on your door,” he told The Age.

“Yet, despite being Labor-affiliated, the door allowing the UFU to be consulted as an affiliate was shut tight.”

The Victorian government has been contacted for comment.

A four-day work week has been trialled by a select number of companies in Australia and overseas aiming to reduce carbon emissions and improve staff mental health.