Why Australia’s Energy Sector Is Limiting Remote Work
Origin Energy, one of Australia’s largest power providers, has reached the final stage of its phased return-to-office (RTO) strategy. The policy, which began rolling out in early 2025, now requires office-based staff to maintain 80% attendance, equivalent to roughly four days per week on-site. This shift reflects a broader trend across the Australian corporate landscape, as major firms like Woolworths, Coles, and Suncorp implement similar mandates.
While the company still allows for one day per week of remote flexibility, the move signals a tightening of the hybrid work culture that flourished in recent years. For those in the energy sector, attendance is increasingly tied to performance reviews and bonus structures. This phased approach was designed to minimize employee turnover, moving from 40% in early 2025 to the current 80% target.
Who it affects
This policy primarily impacts office-based employees within the Australian energy and retail sectors. Digital nomads and expats looking for corporate roles in Australia should be aware that "remote-first" positions are becoming rarer in these industries.
While field staff at power stations remain on-site by necessity, those in administrative, tech, or management roles now face stricter location requirements. If you are planning to work for a major Australian firm, expect to be tied to a physical office in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane for the majority of the work week.
What to do
If you are an expat or remote worker eyeing the Australian market, keep these points in mind:
- Check the contract: Many Australian firms now include specific office-day requirements in their Code of Conduct or employment agreements.
- Negotiate early: If you require more flexibility, address it during the hiring phase, as many companies now link office attendance to annual bonuses.
- Monitor industry trends: Stay updated on nomad news to see if public sector mandates follow private industry leads.
Read our full Australia guide for the complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
How many days a week do Origin Energy office staff have to work on-site?
Which workers are affected by Origin Energy's return-to-office policy?
Are remote-first jobs becoming rarer in Australia's energy sector?
Which Australian cities are office-based workers more likely to be tied to?
Should remote workers check office-day rules before accepting a job in Australia?
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