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The workplace perks Aussies ACTUALLY want

A man running on a treadmill, a businessman getting into a corporate car and co-workers cheers-ing glasses
Flexible working arrangements are now considered to be standard practice by many Aussie workers (Source: Getty)

The modern workplace is changing, and what was once considered a workplace perk is now standard practice at many Aussie companies.

Mental health support, extended parental leave and flexible working arrangements are just some of the things now considered to be standard practice by Aussies, according to Seek.com.au.

This is what Aussies believe should be standard practice in a modern workplace:

  1. Mental health support (69 per cent)

  2. Access to active learning and development programs (68 per cent)

  3. Extended parental leave (58 per cent)

  4. Mentorship and coaching (57 per cent)

  5. Flexible work hours (57 per cent)

  6. Flexible work location (54 per cent)

  7. Access to a car park (52 per cent)

  8. Access to office spaces (52 per cent)

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But there is an entirely separate category of "genuine" perks that are highly coveted by Aussies, who said things like being given a company car, free meals and an onsite gym are looked upon highly.

Here’s what Aussies say constitutes a genuine perk by today’s standards:

  1. A company car (74 per cent)

  2. Free meals (72 per cent)

  3. Free events and activities (70 per cent)

  4. Onsite gym access (69 per cent)

  5. Friday drinks (68 per cent)

  6. Discounted gym membership (68 per cent)

  7. Discounts for retail,travel etc. (62 per cent)

  8. A day off on your birthday (60 per cent)

“Perks are considered as nice to have, but they are also considered important for job satisfaction and attitudes towards an organisation,” the Seek report said.

In fact, 69 per cent of Aussies said they would be happier at work if their workplace offered them more perks, and 62 per cent said they would in turn be more loyal.

One in four Aussies even said they would consider taking on a role with a lower salary if the workplace offered the right perks in return.

  • Watch: Smart ways to appreciate your hard working employees

According to the Metlife Employee Benefit Trends survey improving productivity, engagement and loyalty, as well as reducing stress and burnout, are key objectives for companies looking to manage both through and beyond the pandemic.

The Metlife study found 74 per cent of employees are concerned about at least one aspect of their well-being as a result of the pandemic.

“A holistic well-being approach that addresses four key components — mental, financial, social and physical health — will be critical for companies both to help their employees manage the crisis and support their organization’s recovery,” the study said.

Mellife said keeping the doors of communication open with employees is also a really important element in workplace satisfaction - especially during the pandemic.

“One thing remains constant in the blended work-life world: employees whose employers provide effective support and the right mix of benefits are better equipped to manage and recover from the impact of the crisis,” it said.

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