How to request flexible work: your rights in SG, MY, AU and NZ
New rules make it easier to ask. Here's how to make a request your manager can say yes to.
Flexible work is no longer only a perk. Several countries in the region now give employees a formal right to request it.
The rules
- Singapore: Tripartite Guidelines on Flexible Work Arrangement Requests apply from 1 December 2024. Employers must consider formal requests fairly and explain refusals in writing.
- Malaysia: since 2023, employees can apply in writing to change hours, days or place of work. Employers must reply within 60 days.
- Australia: a right to request flexible work, plus the right to disconnect from unreasonable contact outside hours.
- New Zealand: a statutory right to request flexible working.
Write a strong request
- Be specific: which days, hours or location.
- Explain how work will get done and how you'll stay reachable.
- Offer a trial period and a review date.
Chapterwise includes request templates for each country in the Balance & family toolkit.
Try it in Chapterwise. Build or update your resume free, with country rules built in. Start now →
General information, not legal or financial advice. Check official sources for current rules. Cover photo generated with Seedream 5.0.
