The results of an Australian four-day week trial are in, and show that almost half the firms involved saw an increase in productivity.
Between 2022 and 2023, 15 Australian companies trialled the 100:80:100 four-day week, which sees workers get 100% of their pay, while working 80% of their previous hours, in exchange for maintaining 100% of their previous output.
New research, published in Nature, found that all but one of the participating companies stuck with the four-day week after the trial. The firms involved operated across a range of industries, from property management to publishing.
Echoing the results of similar trials elsewhere, six businesses involved reported an increase in productivity, with the rest reporting no difference.
“As we grapple with high workplace burnout, and societal challenges about what to do with the productivity gains we’re predicted to get from AI, a four-day work week could be an interesting part of both those conversations,” said study lead, Prof John Hopkins of Deakin University.
While evidence increasingly suggests that four-day weeks boost productivity, reduce staff turnover and improve employee wellbeing, critics question whether the benefits can be sustained long-term. A growing number of companies are about to out.
Related: The results of the world’s largest four-day week trial are in – and it’s good news
Image: Luke White
