Flexible work

Queensland Health recognises that Flexible Working Arrangements can support employee wellbeing, engagement and workforce sustainability while enabling the continued delivery of high-quality services. Flexible Working Arrangements provide employees with greater flexibility in how, when or where work is performed, where operationally appropriate.

As a Leader, you play an important role in considering flexible work requests fairly, balancing individual needs with operational requirements, and supporting arrangements that contribute to positive outcomes for employees, teams and the organisation.

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Flexible Working Arrangements

Are changes to how, when or where work is performed to support individual and workplace needs. Flexible work arrangements should be considered in the context of the employee's role, team requirements and service delivery needs.

Examples may include:

  • Flexible start and finish times.

  • Part-time work arrangements.

  • Job sharing.

  • Compressed working hours.

  • Purchased leave arrangements.

  • Working from home or remote work, where appropriate.

  • Temporary adjustments to work hours or duties.

Key considerations

  • Not all roles or flexible work arrangements will be suitable in every situation.

  • Flexible Working Arrangements should balance employee needs with operational and service delivery requirements.

  • Different employees may require different forms of flexibility depending on their circumstances.

  • Flexible Working Arrangements may be temporary, ongoing or reviewed periodically.

  • Open communication and clear expectations are important for successful Flexible Working Arrangements.

  • Fair and consistent decision-making helps build trust and maintain team cohesion.

As a leader

  • Consider flexible work requests fairly and consistently.

  • Assess requests in line with organisational policies, operational requirements and service needs.

  • Engage in open and respectful discussions with employees about their needs and options.

  • Clearly communicate expectations, responsibilities and review arrangements.

  • Monitor the effectiveness of flexible work arrangements and make adjustments where required.

  • Support a team culture that values flexibility, inclusion and accountability.

  • Encourage your team to update their Flexible Working Arrangements in myHR.

Why it's important

  • Flexible Working Arrangements can support employee wellbeing, engagement and work-life balance.

  • Flexibility can assist employees experiencing illness, injury, caring responsibilities or other personal circumstances.

  • Flexible work can support workplace rehabilitation and return to work outcomes.

  • Flexible Working Arrangements can contribute to attraction, retention and workforce participation.

  • Employees who feel supported are more likely to remain engaged and productive.

  • Flexible work can help create an inclusive workplace that responds to diverse employee needs.

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