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Working from home under the Clerks Award – what employers need to know

As of 26 October 2026, changes to the Clerks – Private Sector Award 2020 will introduce new requirements for working from home arrangements. 

The changes establish a clearer process for employees to request working from home and for employers to manage and document agreed arrangements. 

The new rules apply from the first full pay period starting on or after 26 October 2026. 

What is changing? 

Under the updated Clerks Award, employees can formally request working from home arrangements. 

The new provisions introduce requirements for: 

  • Written requests: Employees must outline their proposed working from home arrangements. 
  • Documented agreements: Agreed arrangements must include key details such as working patterns, approved locations and commencement dates. 
  • Record keeping: Employers must retain written agreements and provide employees with a copy. 
  • Dispute resolution: Unresolved disputes may be referred to the Fair Work Commission. 

Importantly, the changes do not create an automatic entitlement to work from home. However, employers must ensure requests are handled appropriately and consistently. 

What should employers do now? 

Employers covered by the Clerks Award should review their current workplace practices and ensure appropriate processes are in place. 

Key steps include: 

  1. Review existing working from home policies and procedures. 
  1. Check whether informal arrangements require written documentation. 
  1. Prepare appropriate working from home agreement templates. 
  1. Ensure managers understand the new requirements. 
  1. Consider work health and safety obligations for remote workers. 

Employers should also understand how the new provisions interact with existing flexible working entitlements. 

For further information, explore AHR’s Industrial Relations Insights and our guidance on flexible working arrangements. 

How AHR can help 

At Assurance HR Management, we support businesses with practical HR, industrial relations and workplace compliance advice. 

Our team can assist with reviewing policies, preparing workplace documentation and managing working from home arrangements. 

Is your business prepared for the new Clerks Award requirements? 

Contact AHR for practical advice and support.