Release Date: 25/01/2012
NSW’s peak business organisation, NSW Business Chamber, said people should enjoy our national public holiday tomorrow but not overdo it as Friday is a normal working day.
“While Thursday will be a day off for many Australians to celebrate their national holiday, Friday is a normal working day, and employees will be expected to show up to the workplace ‘bright eyed and bushy tailed’,” said Stephen Cartwright, CEO of the NSW Business Chamber.
“Workplaces have clear guidelines about drugs and alcohol, and those guidelines will apply regardless of whether the previous day was a public holiday.”
“The message to people is to enjoy Australia Day but don’t overdo it. You need to be prepared for a typical working Friday or you should speak to your employer now about making alternative arrangements if there is going to be an issue."
Mr Cartwright said employees who planned to take a ‘sickie’ on Friday should be warned that they will be fooling no one.
“Anybody who takes a ‘sickie’ on the Friday after Australia Day is not going to go unnoticed by their employer or their colleagues and it is likely to damage their professional reputation.
“Employees who are planning an extra-long weekend should use their annual leave or talk to their employers now and come up with alternative arrangements. Employers will be understanding, provided there are provisions in place to cover for leave.
“The impact of staff taking a ‘mass sick day’ on a business is significant in financial costs and lost productivity.
“At a time when productivity and the economy are under the spotlight, employees should consider whether taking the easy way out is a wise long term decision.”
Media Contact: Damian Kelly 0401 773 825