Introducing the Four-Day Work Week: Empowering the Workforce with Karabena Consulting

Sara Alden
Senior Consultant Associate

History has shaped our perspectives on current social conditions, including the way we work. As we delve into the historical analysis of the Australian workforce, we gain valuable insights into our place in this narrative. At Karabena Consulting, we acknowledge the often-overlooked contributions and struggles of Indigenous workers throughout history, seeking to create a more equitable future for all.

History of worker’s Rights in Australia

The early days of Australia saw convicts, settlers, and invaders toiling under oppressive conditions, working from sunrise to sunset, six days a week. The British Masters and Servants Acts heavily favoured employers, leaving workers with little recourse for improving their rights. Unions emerged around 1830, but their focus remained on skilled white men, while many others, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers, were excluded.

Fast forward to the late 19th century, when the movement for an eight-hour workday gained momentum. However, even after achieving this milestone, discrimination persisted, affecting unskilled laborers, women, people of colour, and migrants, among others. First Nations workers faced additional challenges due to the removal of their rights under various legislations.

The Four-Day Work Week

Karabena Consulting embraces the Four-Day Work Week movement as a private not-for-profit initiative to improve employees' well-being and productivity. A successful six-month pilot showed reduced attrition rates and maintained revenues, with 92% of participating businesses committed to the new schedule. Legislation advocating for a four-day workweek trial is gaining traction in Australia.

The Senate released the final report into the impact on workers wellbeing regarding combining work and care responsibilities in a forty-hour week, via The Select Committee On Work And Care. Chaired by Greens Senator Barbara Pocock in March 2023, and supported by Liberal and Greens, a key recommendation is the federal four-day work week trial.

This model includes one day off a week, at 100% pay.

Benefits of the Four-Day Week

This shift towards a shorter workweek not only benefits employees but also fosters improvements in workplace dynamics. Increased collaboration, empowerment, and trust are reported outcomes, promoting a positive work culture. Moreover, the Four-Day Work Week movement aligns with self-determination, allowing employees to contribute to their own wellness and productivity. According to qualitative research analysis (Delaney), when staff are trusted and given choice and respect, they have personal and job satisfaction, and feel more challenged and stimulated by their work.

The four-day work week also promotes gender equality, and a recent analysis of four-day workweek trials finds that the shortened week can help workers balance domestic duties at home, with men spending nearly 25% more time on childcare and housework (Quartz), hereby reducing childcare costs, and assisting women and parents with child rearing responsibilities to make more equitable choices.

Of course, challenges exist, such as stress, burnout, and maintaining productivity within a compressed timeframe. However, Karabena Consulting proactively addresses these concerns through strong communication, teamwork, and effective use of technology. Transparent reporting of daily achievements and implementing practical micro-initiatives ensure accountability, productivity, and reduced workplace stress.

At Karabena Consulting, we believe in working together to build a future where the Four-Day Work Week becomes a reality. By acknowledging history, empowering the workforce, and embracing innovation, we strive for a better, more equitable workplace where productivity and well-being go hand in hand. Join us in shaping this transformative future as we pave the way towards a more balanced and fulfilling work life.