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Today I Chaired a NEEOPA forum on the National Employment Standards Right to Request legislation which comes into effect 1 January 2010. It was an interesting and informative session, with a comprehensive presentation on the legislation by Juliet Bourke of Aequus Partners, and case studies by ABC Corporation and Sydney Water (winner of the 2008 Diversity@Work Award for Work/Life Balance).  Essentially the NES form part of the Fair Work Act and will kick off with the ‘Right to Request’ flexible work aimed at working parents.

It was interesting to note however that in other countries (including the UK and NZ), the legislation initially launched for working parents has been broadened to include other workforce segments – including mature age workers. Attendees at today’s session seemed very much in favour of adopting this from day one. If they are going to implement manager and staff education programs along with practical policies and guidelines in readiness for January 2010, then they can cascade it further than working parents. The Right to Request can be a valuable tool in the kit when it comes to promoting best practise and enhancing an employer brand. All a move in the right direction…