Since the pandemic, Australians have saved billions by working from home, creating both economic benefits and a significant lifestyle shift for many. With fewer people commuting daily, households have enjoyed greater financial freedom and extra hours for personal activities. This transition has had a positive impact on transport-related expenses, and while some sectors may struggle to adjust, the overall advantages are hard to ignore.
In Sydney and Melbourne, working from home has dramatically reduced spending on public transport and commuting costs. According to recent figures, households have saved more than $85 billion since 2020. This reduction in spending has either been banked or redirected into other areas of the economy, such as holidays or home improvements. For example, Sydney resident Craig Costello estimated that working from home saved him about $350 a week, with significant cuts to his petrol, parking, and toll costs.
For many Australians, the time saved by not commuting has become just as valuable as the financial benefits. The average commute in Sydney used to take almost six hours a week, while in Melbourne and Brisbane, workers spent around 5.5 hours commuting. Working from home has allowed people to reclaim this time, providing flexibility and a better work-life balance.
Costello noted that the extra hours gave him more freedom to handle personal tasks, like shopping or errands, during his day. Many workers also reported that their meetings became more focused and productive when working from home, contributing to a sense of efficiency and accomplishment.
Independent economist Chris Richardson highlighted that time is a resource that cannot be regained, making the work-from-home shift one of the most significant lifestyle improvements for Australians in recent memory. Part-time and lower-income workers, in particular, have benefited from these changes, enjoying greater financial stability and flexibility.
Despite the clear benefits for workers, the future of remote work remains a point of debate. Some governments and businesses are keen to bring employees back to the office, citing benefits like collaboration and team cohesion. However, the work-from-home model has fundamentally changed commuting habits. Even with population growth, transport spending and public transport use are unlikely to return to pre-COVID levels in the near future.
Economist Nicki Hutley pointed out that flexible work arrangements are likely here to stay, with many Australians appreciating the time and cost savings they provide. While there may be efforts to revitalize central business districts by encouraging a return to office life, it’s clear that the benefits of working from home have been deeply felt by millions of people.
