Document Chunk
This text chunk contains following information extracted through processing and enrichment.
Section : Responding to a request
Domain : Human Resource Management
Classification : Not Identified
Context
This chunk is part of the "Responding to a request" section in the "Flexible working arrangements Best Practice Guide," which outlines the legal obligations and procedures employers must follow when addressing requests for flexible working arrangements under the Fair Work Act (FW Act). It details the timeline for responses, the necessary steps employers must take, and examples of reasonable business grounds for refusing such requests.
Text Content
There are rules for responding to requests for flexible working arrangements under the FW Act. Employers need to respond to a request for flexible working arrangements within 21 days of a request. They must respond in writing to say whether they are approving or refusing the request or setting out agreed alternative arrangements. An employer can only refuse a request if they have reasonable business grounds and have taken certain steps, including:
- discussing the request with the employee
- genuinely trying to reach an agreement with the employee for alternative arrangements, and
- considering the consequences for the employee of refusing the request. www.fairwork.gov.au | Fair Work Infoline: 13 13 94 | ABN: 43 884 188 232 Examples of reasonable business grounds for refusing a request could include:
- cost - the requested arrangements would be too costly for the employer
- capacity - there's no capacity to change the working arrangements of other employees to accommodate the request
- practicality - it would be impractical to change the working arrangements of other employees, or take on new employees, to accommodate the request
- inefficiency or customer service impact - the requested arrangement would likely result in significant loss in efficiency or productivity, or have a significant negative impact on customer service.
- What is the time frame within which employers must respond to requests for flexible working arrangements?
- What must an employer include in their written response to a request for flexible working arrangements?
- Under what conditions can an employer refuse a request for flexible working arrangements?
- List three steps an employer must take before refusing a request for flexible working arrangements.
- What are some examples of reasonable business grounds for refusing a request for flexible working arrangements?
- How might the cost of requested arrangements affect an employer's decision?
- In what ways could refusing a request for flexible working arrangements impact employee relations?
- Why is it important for employers to genuinely try to reach an agreement with employees regarding flexible working arrangements?
- What could be the consequences for an employee if their request for flexible working arrangements is refused?
- How does the FW Act ensure that employee requests for flexible working arrangements are handled fairly?