right to disconnect policy

A right to disconnect policy that simply restates the provisions adds nothing. The version that helps sets expectations before anything happens.

Five things belong in it. When an employee may be expected to monitor, read or respond, described by role rather than in general terms. Any pay or conditions connected to out-of-hours availability. Preferred contact channels, so an urgent matter reaches someone the way they can actually see it. Who needs to know about an arrangement, including managers and, where relevant, clients. And when arrangements are reviewed.

Position descriptions are worth updating alongside it, since that is where expectations about availability are most naturally recorded.

Check the applicable award before finalising the policy, because award terms can add requirements that sit on top of the general position.

The Fair Work Ombudsman publishes guidance on setting expectations. This is general information rather than legal advice, and obligations vary by state and territory.

See Sentrient’s HR policy templates and position description software.