As we celebrate National Families Week 2024 (13th – 19th May), we are delighted to announce the list of certified Family Inclusive Workplaces as of May 2024 and highlight the achievements of the Family Friendly Workplaces initiative.

The certification recognises Australian employers who meet the National Work + Family Standards and encourages organisations to continuously measure and improve to make Australia one of the best places to work and care for families.

Family Inclusive Workplace certification is for two years, after which organisations can reapply. 

Reflecting on the origins of this initiative, it was in May 2021 when UNICEF Australia and Parents At Work joined forces to launch the Family Friendly Workplaces initiative. This collaboration was bolstered by the support of key ‘early adopter’ employers and industry partners – all united in the goal of enhancing workplace flexibility and addressing the caring bias by mainstreaming accessible family support being available to men and women, to make balancing work and care easier, especially in the wake of the pandemic’s challenges. 

The National Work + Family Standards have since served as a benchmark for employers, outlining best practices to support their employees’ needs for work, family, and wellness.

The 2024 key findings of the National Working Families Survey reveal that employers who invest in family-inclusive policies and practices see better outcomes. Employees in certified Family Friendly Workplaces enjoy greater flexibility, with 92% of certified employers offering flexible work hours and locations, compared to 75% of non-certified ones. Additionally, 76% of certified employers provide the option to purchase annual leave in advance, a significant increase from the 50% among non-certified employers.

Employees in certified workplaces report fewer negative consequences from working flexibly. They express higher satisfaction with their work-life balance and are less likely to seek employment elsewhere due to the lack of flexible options. The culture in these organisations is more accepting of men utilising family-friendly entitlements, and there’s a stronger emphasis on cultural measures like family-friendly champions and managerial training.

As we look back on the last year, it’s clear that the commitment to family-friendly practices is not just a trend but a fundamental shift in the way organisations operate. 

The benefits are tangible, and the momentum continues to build, paving the way for more inclusive and supportive work environments across Australia.

2024 Certified Family Inclusive Workplaces