More than 150 employers recognised as family-friendly workplaces
More than 150 organisations across Australia have now earned Family Friendly Workplace certification, with a new impact report linking the accreditation to significantly better work-life outcomes for employees.
The Five Years of Evidence, Impact and Change report, released by Family Friendly Workplaces, reveals that 3–4% of Australia's workforce is employed by these recognised organisations.
The report draws on data from more than 750 employers, covering almost 1.2 million workers benchmarked against the National Work and Family Standards.
"Over five years, we've seen employers move from good intentions to measurable change. The certification results show that when organisations commit to structured flexibility and support for carers, people stay, contribute and perform at their best," said Tony Stuart, CEO of UNICEF Australia.
UNICEF Australia launched the Family Friendly Workplaces initiative with Parents At Work in 2021. It recognises employers who are leading the way in their support of families.
"This is a practical roadmap for the future of work in Australia. Workplace design shapes childhood. When parents have secure leave and real flexibility, they can bond with their children in the years that matter most. Family-friendly work is not just a workforce policy, it is a child wellbeing policy," Stuart said.
Benefits of family-friendly workplaces
While the broader analysis shows many employers still fall short on basic family-friendly provisions, the certified cohort stands out for stronger policies and better employee experiences.
"Employees in certified workplaces report work-life satisfaction scores seven points higher than those in non-certified organisations," said Emma Walsh, CEO of Family Friendly Workplaces.
"Certified employers are significantly more likely to embed formal flexibility frameworks, invest in leadership capability, and provide structured support for carers."
According to UNICEF, the shift to a family-friendly workplace contributes to:
- Improved wellbeing outcomes for employees, their children and other loved ones they care for
- Greater workforce participation of those with caring responsibilities
- Reduced carer-related discrimination
- Enhanced workplace productivity and engagement
- Improved gender equality outcomes
- Fostering a safe and inclusive workplace culture
"There is a compelling economic and social argument that investing in a family-friendly workplace culture, where policies and practices support employees to effectively manage work and family needs, is not only good for children, families and communities, but it's also good for business and the wider economy," it said on its website.
