‘We’ve made a mistake’: Peter Dutton backs down on working from home policy
Guardian7 days
Australia: Coalition Reverses Public Service Work-From-Home Ban
Above: Opposition Leader Peter Dutton speaks to the media during post budget media interviews at Parliament House on March 26, 2025 in Canberra, Australia. Image copyright: Hilary Wardhaugh/Stringer/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
Peter Dutton's work-from-home reversal highlights a critical campaign misstep. Voters, particularly women, feared being forced back to offices away from their families. The policy sparked widespread backlash, damaged poll numbers among crucial demographics, and hollowed out Dutton's agenda when labeled "policy-lite" by Labor—prompting an embarrassing public apology.
Narrative B
Dutton's policy recalibration demonstrates thoughtful responsiveness rather than retreat. By preserving flexible arrangements while maintaining efficiency goals, the Coalition has simply refined its approach. This shows leadership that values both workplace modernization and fiscal responsibility—a balanced solution that respects today's professionals.