Even these guys could do with some time off
Photo (c) 2011 AAP One/Richard Durham

New research from the Australian Institute of Family Studies suggests the flexible hours enjoyed by new parents in the workforce should be available to all employees.

The survey found one in five employees asks for and receives flexibility in the office.

Women are more likely than men to request part-time work or shorter hours, and younger workers are more likely than older ones to ask for flexibility.

The study also found that one third of employees are unhappy because they want more flexible working conditions, but they haven’t asked for it.

Under current legislation only mothers and fathers with pre-schoolers or disabled children have the right to ask for flexible arrangements. 

Researcher Barbara Pocock, who co-authored this report, will be on the Project tonight to talk about attitudes towards workplace flexibility.