Protecting your work-life balance

For broadcast on 2CH Sydney, 6 Oct 2013.

The issue of work-life balance continues to be a challenge for large numbers of Australian families, and especially for women who choose to remain in, or rejoin, the workforce after having children.

There is more to life than profit and self-centred greed.  Employees and employers alike have been created in the image of God, and should be treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. Working unsocial hours has a negative impact on family life. Workers must not be considered merely instrumental in the production of goods and services. And they have a right to adequate rest from their paid employment.

Are there consultative processes in your workplace that encourage staff to talk about their needs? Are you aware of your family-friendly entitlements? Does your employer acknowledge your significant roles and responsibilities outside the workplace?

A healthy work-life balance delivers vital benefits to workers, families, employers and the whole community.

I’m Rod Benson for the NSW Council of Churches.