New report reveals growing demand for family-focused perks in workplaces
Benefits that offer employees greater control of their work have emerged as the most-used perks in Australian workplaces, according to a new report, as demand for childcare rises among employees.
Data from a new Robert Half report revealed that working from home and hybrid work arrangements (43%) are the most utilised benefits by employees.
This is followed by flexible work arrangements (34%), and then mental health resources or employee assistance (24%). Other well-utilised perks are:
- (Paid) internal or external training (22%)
- Travel allowance (20%)
- Conferences/seminars/workshops (20%)
- In-office physical activities (19%)
- Mentorship (17%)
"Employees are prioritising benefits that give them greater control over their time, wellbeing, and long-term career growth," said Nicole Gorton, director at Robert Half, in a statement.
"The most used perks and benefits are practical supports that promote long-term work-life balance and foster skills development, signalling a shift in what employees now view as essential rather than flashy extras."
Unused benefits at work
But at the same time, the report also found that more than a quarter of employees are still not utilising even the most-used benefits.
Mental health resources are the least used benefit in workplaces, according to 28% of the respondents. This is also the case for (un)paid sabbaticals or leave of absence (26%).
Around a quarter of the respondents also said flexible work arrangements (26%) and working from home or hybrid options (24%) aren't being used as much.
This raises a concern about whether these benefits are really accessible and effective for employees, according to Gorton.
"While many organisations are investing in a wide range of lifestyle benefits, the relatively low utilisation rates suggest some benefits may be falling short of their intended impact," she said.
"This raises important questions about accessibility, eligibility, and whether policies are being clearly communicated and applied. As businesses reassess their total rewards strategies, ensuring employees use their benefits is just as critical as offering them in the first place."
Family-focused perks in demand
Meanwhile, the report also revealed a growing demand for family-focused benefits, with 94% of the respondents saying their employers don't offer childcare allowances.
The majority of the respondents said their employers don't offer in-house or on-site childcare (93%) and extended parental leave (55%).
Remote working options that are beyond working from home, as well as life insurance that's separate from superannuation are also not on the table, according to the majority of the respondents.
"While childcare support is not yet widespread, employers that offer family-focused benefits have a clear opportunity to stand out, strengthen their employer brand, and build a more inclusive workplace for working parents," Gorton said.
"As employee expectations continue to evolve, offering a well-rounded package that includes family-friendly and lifestyle benefits is becoming a key consideration for attracting and retaining diverse talent."
