Why more Australian women prefer hybrid work over part-time roles

Australian women are increasingly turning their back on part-time work, in favour of flexible full-time employment, according to a new report. The 2024 Gender Equity Insight Report revealed there was a 3 percent drop in the number of women working part-time in Australia between 2017 and 2023.

Over the same period, women’s full-time employment in Australia rose from 40 per cent to 42.5 percent. This is a trend that has been mirrored in most OECD countries.

This has coincided with a significant increase in the number of people working in hybrid or flexible positions. Across both genders, flexible work rose from 2.3 per cent to 42.5 percent.

This suggests a shift away from part-time positions to full-time, flexible positions.

For many women, remote or hybrid work and flexible working hours are a priority.

Therefore, the increased availability of such positions has increased their workplace and economic participation.

So why are women increasingly choosing to work flexibly rather than part-time?

Why has there been a rise in remote work?

There are various factors that have led to the rise in hybrid work. These include:

· Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic was a catalyst for change in the world of work. It normalised hybrid and flexible working arrangements across various industries. The pandemic also reduced negative perceptions and stereotypes of working from home, although these still persist in some circles.
· The increased adoption of technology: Increased adoption of technology has contributed to the rise in remote work. Technological advancements have made working remotely easier, as well as more efficient and productive.
· Benefit to business: Many businesses are increasingly seeing the benefits of allowing staff to work from home. Workers are increasingly expecting the right to work from home. Therefore, in a highly competitive employment market, employers are using this as a negotiating tool to attract and retain quality staff.

Australia still has one of the highest proportions of part-time workers in developed countries. Those remaining in part-time work are often choosing to do so for lifestyle reasons rather than because they are caring for children.

Disadvantages of part-time work

Despite the flexibility and advantages, working part-time can also have several disadvantages. These include:

· Reduced lifetime earnings: Over a lifetime, a person working part-time will earn significantly less than a person working full-time
· Reduced retirement savings: Women make up three-quarters of Australia’s part-time workforce and retire with significantly less savings than men on average.
· Less chance of promotion: Do you want to get a promotion? Evidence suggests that those who work part-time and flexibly are less likely to receive promotions. This may be partly explained by the fact that management positions are less likely to be part-time and flexible.
· Negative perceptions: Working part-time may lead to negative perceptions by some. For example, you may be seen as less hard-working and less committed to your career.

Experts are urging employers to embrace the evolution of part-time and flexible work. They should reconsider which roles are off-limits for part-time and flexible work. Making some management roles available part-time or flexibly would not only increase the talent pool available but also help to close the gender pay gap.

Experts believe that employers should shift the focus from hours spent in the office to outcomes delivered. By embracing flexible and part-time work, employers can create a more equitable and supportive work environment.

For those looking to work part-time or remotely, the public service offers endless opportunities.

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