Tuesday, 3 March 2026

 Danny PEARSON (Essendon – Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs, Minister for Finance, Minister for Government Services) (14:15): I rise to update the house on the Allan Labor government’s plan to grow the economy, create more jobs and protect Victorians’ right to work from home now. Luckily, last week I attended the LaunchVic Alice Anderson Fund International Women’s Day event alongside my good friend from the other place Ms Watt, where we celebrated female founders and great Victorian startups. Through programs like the Alice Anderson Fund, the Allan Labor government is helping more women founders launch and scale companies that create jobs and strengthen the Victorian economy. We have already supported 43 startups through the Alice Anderson Fund, creating hundreds of jobs and unlocking $67 million in private sector investment. One of those startups is WORK180, who have recently released their newest What Women Want Report. This year flexibility remains a priority. The number one positive change reported by women is better flexible-working policies. But some workplaces are rolling back flexible working, and one in three said that women are being held back by limited access to flexible work.

That is exactly why the Allan Labor government will proudly introduce legislation to make working from home a legal right for at least two days a week where the work can be done remotely. Work from home works for families. It is good for the economy, it is good for businesses, it helps modern businesses stay competitive and attract top talent, and it increases diversity in the workplace. Our economic plan is about the three Ps. It is about population, participation and productivity. Work from home increases productivity because it means less time commuting. Work from home increases participation because it gives people more options when looking for work, particularly amongst women, carers, primary carers and people with disabilities. And, with an increasing population, we have got a growing economy. On this side of the house we are backing Victorians every step of the way. We are growing the economy, creating more good, well-paid and flexible jobs.