What is the future of hybrid work?

Analysis of Australian business trends shows hybrid work persists with most staff working two days remotely.

Heath Gibson · Executive Manager – Industry Intelligence and Insights at NBN Australia11 April 2024Period: April 20244 min read

71%↑

Average CBD visitation vs pre-pandemic levels (Oct 2023)

-27%↓

Victoria metro train weekday trips vs 2020 levels (Feb 2024)

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Abstract

This report analyses the current state of hybrid work in Australia, drawing on CBD visitation data, public transport statistics, and a survey of ICT decision makers. While office attendance is recovering, with average CBD visitation reaching 71% of pre-pandemic levels by October 2023, flexibility remains a core feature of the modern workplace. The brief explores the implications for telecommunications providers as workers settle into a routine of approximately two days per week working from home.

Key Takeaways

Average Australian CBD visitation recovered to 71% of pre-pandemic levels by late 2023, with peak days exceeding 75%.
Public transport usage remains significantly depressed, with NSW bus trips down 23% and Victorian metro trains down 27% compared to 2020.
The majority of surveyed businesses report that more than half of their staff are still able to work remotely.

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Frequently Asked Questions

CBD visitation reached 71% of pre-pandemic levels by late 2023, with peak activity days exceeding 75%. However, a full recovery is unlikely as public transport usage remains significantly depressed, with Victorian metro train trips down 27% compared to 2020.

Only 12% of surveyed businesses report zero remote work capability, meaning the vast majority of the market remains hybrid. Most small and medium businesses have settled on a routine where employees work remotely two days per week.

There is a significant risk that workers will settle for 'good enough' home connectivity for their two-to-three days of remote work. This behavioral trend is expected to dampen consumer appetite for high-tier broadband upgrades.

The concentration of staff on-site during peak days, where visitation hits 75% or higher, will provide a modest uplift in demand for business-grade connectivity. Telcos should expect this to specifically benefit cloud service adoption and high-capacity office links.

What is the future of hybrid work?

Abstract

Key Takeaways

Frequently Asked Questions

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