SmartCompany – Could the four-day work week do more harm than good for Australian small businesses?

ESBWA CEO, Amanda Rose, in her opinion piece on SmartCompany, highlighted the concerns of small business owners and called on decision-makers to carefully consider the full implications that such a work model could bring.

• Smaller businesses may struggle to sustain their operations under this system, potentially leading to reduced productivity, delayed outcomes, and financial strain.

• If larger enterprises offer a shorter work week for the same pay and benefits, attracting skilled workers to small businesses would become increasingly challenging.

• Increased burden will be placed on small business owners who are already working long hours under immense pressure

Policymakers, business leaders, and employees must engage in thoughtful dialogue to identify solutions that can preserve the vitality of small businesses while promoting a healthy work-life balance for all employees. Most importantly, the concerns of small businesses must be addressed in order to preserve their valuable contributions to the economy and community.