A Law Without a Cause? Experts Question the Need for the ‘Right to Disconnect’ After Work

Employers can now cop massive fines for reaching staff out of hours, but the need for conversation could prove greater than the need for punishment.

Office workers are seen at lunch break at Martin Place in Sydney, Australia Dec. 12, 2018. AAP Image/Mick Tsikas

So-called “right to disconnect” laws are in place across the nation, but will they make a difference to how workplaces and employees operate?

In a nutshell, the legislation allows employees the right to ignore interaction from their employee, or a third party, outside of their work hours unless there is an exceptional circumstance.