Goal 11:
Sustainable Cities and Communities
Allow Remote Working
The University of Newcastle recognises the value of flexibility in balancing work, life, and sustainability goals. To that end, we have formal policies that permit and support remote working, alternative hours, and compressed work arrangements for eligible staff.
- Flexible Work Policy & Procedures
Our Flexible Work Policy sets out the available flexible work arrangements for staff, including location flexibility (remote work or alternative work locations) where “the nature of the role permits, and where safe and productive” (clause 13).
The policy also allows for hours flexibility, including the possibility of distributing weekly hours over fewer days (i.e. a compressed work week) or varying start/finish times.
Role flexibility is also accommodated — staff may apply to job share, alter their employment fraction (part‑time), or adopt other shared arrangements.
Flexible arrangements are subject to trial periods and review (every 3 months) and may be approved up to 12 months in duration.
This policy was effective from the 28th of April 2022 and was reviewed in April 2025.
- Working from Home Procedure & Agreement
For regular, ongoing remote work, the University uses a Working from Home – Procedure and Agreement to formalise arrangements. The procedure outlines obligations around health & safety, equipment, workplace assessments, and mutual responsibilities.
Shorter‑term or ad hoc remote work may also be considered but must comply with the procedure and be approved via a formal application.
- Guiding Principles & Operational Balance
While we support flexible working, the policy emphasises a “campus first” approach: roles that depend on in-person collaboration, lab work, or direct student engagement may require on-campus presence.
Flexible work arrangements must always balance:- The operational needs and performance requirements of the unit;
- The role’s inherent requirements;
- The individual’s circumstances.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.