According to data from a report by ADP Research Institute, almost one in three workers (30 per cent) believe they could relocate overseas and continue working for their current employers.

The People at Work 2023: A Global Workforce View report sheds light on Aussies changing attitudes towards work. The study highlights the increasing importance of flexibility in retaining staff, particularly amongst Gen Z.

Since the rise of remote and hybrid work, most people see few barriers to working from anywhere. This has led to an increase in digital nomads, especially in professions such as IT and telecommunications.  So much so that 70 per cent of workers in these sectors believe they could relocate overseas and remain employed by their current company.

The younger generation in Australia is particularly enthusiastic about the prospect of relocation, with 39 per cent of 18-24-year-olds considering it an option compared to only 9 per cent of those aged 55 or older. This indicates a growing trend among Gen Z workers, possibly fuelled by a desire for overseas experiences post-COVID.

Kylie Baullo, Managing Director ANZ at ADP, suggests the ability to work from anywhere is becoming increasingly important to most Australians.

“The option for extended travel and true workplace flexibility by being able to work from anywhere is becoming a huge consideration for Australian workers, especially among young people who crave experiences abroad following COVID-induced lockdowns. This changing work landscape has expanded workers’ horizons – and the trend is here to stay.”

Remote work has become the norm

Employees express confidence in working from different locations primarily due to their employer’s flexible working policies. A significant 20 per cent of participants mentioned that their employer’s approach allows them complete flexibility over their work location, and 18 per cent identify location flexibility as an essential factor when considering a job opportunity.

The report also indicates that within the next five years, nearly two in 10 workers (18 per cent) expect remote work from anywhere worldwide to become the norm in their industry.

However, Baullo urges employers to adapt to these evolving needs, stating, “Employers who offer location flexibility can attract a larger pool of talent. In light of these shifting expectations, employers in Australia need to carefully assess their comfort level in enabling remote work abroad and proactively adapt their policies and systems to meet these evolving needs.”

Despite the enthusiasm for working overseas, Baullo emphasises the importance of clear communication and employer transparency. Security and logistical considerations must also be addressed effectively, such as safe access to company networks and effectively managing work across different time zones.

“It is imperative for employers to communicate clearly and transparently regarding the permissibility of working from abroad and the specific circumstances under which it is allowed. They should be well-prepared to handle requests for overseas work, emphasising to employees that having a laptop does not automatically grant unlimited work freedom,” Baullo adds.

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