More leave, four-day weeks: The top work perks Aussies really want

From extra paid leave to four-day weeks, here are the top work perks Aussies are looking for. (Source: Getty)

Aussie workplaces are increasingly offering perks like free food, ping pong tables and gym memberships to keep their staff happy. But - aside from a bigger pay cheque - what do workers actually want?

Well, according to new research commissioned by Flight Centre’s Corporate Traveller, Aussies are most keen to work fewer hours and travel more.

Extra paid leave was the top work perk Aussies wanted (41 per cent), followed by finishing early on a Friday or working a four-day week (37 per cent).

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Next on the list was getting to travel for work (27 per cent) or getting some or all of their work commuting costs covered by their employer (27 per cent).

“Our survey results show that Aussies may be seeking a better work-life balance through more leave, shorter weeks, and more travel,” Corporate Traveller global managing director Tom Walley said.

Young Aussies were the most interested in getting additional paid leave, the survey of 1,001 people found, with around half of under-30s (49 per cent) and 31-50-year-olds (48 per cent) wanting the perk. In comparison, about a third of over-50s (30 per cent) wanted the extra days.

With Australia facing a tight labour market, Walley said businesses may need to consider offering these incentives to remain competitive and to attract and retain employees.

“In particular, conducting trials of a four-day work week, exploring travel opportunities, and offering valued leave entitlements could be key to onboarding good talent this year.” Walley said.

The four-day work week has gained traction in the past couple of years, with countries like Iceland, Belgium and the United Kingdom trialling the model. This week, a senate report also called on the government to introduce a trial in Australia.

Some of the other work perks Aussies were interested in included free meals and snacks (23 per cent), being able to work remotely while in a holiday destination (21 per cent), and a permanent hybrid or remote working arrangement (19 per cent).

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