Fair Work orders Victoria University to allow adviser one work-from-home day

Australia’s Fair Work Commission has ordered Victoria University to let student adviser Michele Duffy work from home one day a week.

Duffy, who is 63, had asked to work from home two days a week because a shorter commute could reduce her physical fatigue and improve her productivity.

The university argued that her role required face-to-face contact with students.

The commission accepted that the university had valid business reasons but still granted one day at home.

It did not require Duffy to prove she had a medical condition.

The ruling contrasts with a July decision involving council employee Steven Polak, whose request to reduce his office attendance was rejected.

Together, the decisions show how the commission weighs workplace needs against fatigue and the experience of older workers.