Medibank has reported on the outcomes of its four-day work week trial, which has been in progress for over two months with 250 of its employees participating.
This experiment, structured around the concept of “The Gift,” utilises a 100:80:100 model – enabling staff to retain their full pay while working fewer hours, with the expectation of maintaining their usual productivity levels.
The initiative aims to explore the potential for increased workplace efficiency and employee satisfaction through the provision of extra personal time in exchange for eliminating fewer valuable tasks.
The feedback from the trial participants has been overwhelmingly positive, indicating a successful adaptation to the new work structure. Medibank employees have reported a notable enhancement in their ability to manage time effectively, leading to significant productivity gains and an improved work-life balance.
Key strategies that have contributed to these outcomes include the reduction of unnecessary meetings, the streamlining of communication channels, and the adoption of technology to automate routine tasks, allowing for a greater focus on high-value activities that directly benefit customers.
Specific experiences shared by participants highlight the practical benefits of the experiment. For instance, Michael Davidse – product specialist, financial products – detailed how the initiative has allowed for better time management and communication adjustments, ultimately granting him more time for personal and family activities.
“It's been awesome having access to The Gift. I have used it for something different each time, including working on university assignments, setting up a cat run for my fur babies, and taking advantage of the long weekend to duck up to Queensland,” he said.
Similarly, Ingrid Gotz – digital, delivery and compliance lead ahm, customer – emphasised the efficiency gains from technological innovations her team implemented, which have significantly reduced time spent on administrative tasks.
“I was so excited by the opportunity to reimagine how we work and be part of this experiment. Ten weeks into it, and I am still a big fan. We've been challenging ourselves to work smarter and use our time more effectively, therefore creating the space and time to work on the things that matter most, provide added value and bring us more joy,” she said.
Andrew Retschko – hub lead, talent engagement, inclusion and sustainability people, spaces and sustainability – shared insights into the initial challenges and subsequent benefits of the reduced workweek, noting the positive impact on his personal life and ability to complete household tasks during weekdays, thus freeing up weekends.
“As a team, we knew we were going to need to do things differently for this to be a success. We've been looking at this in two ways: firstly, how we manage our time more efficiently and secondly, finding efficiencies in the way we work,” he said.
In other news, Medibank recently announced a new initiative to ease the burden of rising living costs and promote dental care.
