Australians Work Longest Hours

Australians continue to rank among the hardest-working people globally, logging longer-than-average hours and often forgoing their full leave entitlements. While our work ethic is commendable, these habits are raising red flags around burnout, health, and overall life satisfaction.

How Many Hours Are Australians Working?

According to the latest OECD data, Australians work an average of 1,694 hours per year, putting us above many other developed nations including Germany, the Netherlands, and Norway. While this figure is lower than the outdated 1,855 cited in older studies, it’s still significant—especially considering the increasing rates of unpaid overtime.

Research from the Centre for Future Work shows that the average Australian performs 3.6 hours of unpaid overtime per week. That’s nearly five full weeks of unpaid work annually.

The Leave We Don’t Take

Despite being entitled to four weeks of annual leave, many Australians are leaving it on the table. In fact, according to a 2024 analysis by Bond University, Australian workers have stockpiled over 160 million days of unused leave.

Not taking regular breaks can contribute to stress, reduced productivity, and even long-term health risks. Employers are increasingly encouraging workers to take their leave to reset and recharge.

Why Do We Work So Much?

Several factors are contributing to Australia’s extended work culture:

• Job insecurity—especially in gig and contract work—can make workers hesitant to disconnect.
• Material and lifestyle pressures fuel a cycle of overworking to “keep up.”
• Digital connectivity blurs the boundary between work and home life, making it harder to switch off.

Dr Clive Hamilton, former Director of The Australia Institute, summed it up best: “There’s more to life than long hours of work… more Australians are realising that and choosing time over money, connection over consumption.”

How to Reclaim Balance

For Employees

• Use your annual leave—it’s a right, not a luxury.
• Set work boundaries, especially when working remotely.
• Explore wellbeing or leadership training to better manage stress and workloads.

For Employers

• Encourage flexible working where possible.
• Support employees in taking leave and managing overtime expectations.
• Monitor workloads and check in regularly to prevent burnout.

Finding a healthy work-life balance isn’t just about individual choices—it also requires supportive systems, cultural shifts, and ongoing conversations around wellbeing and performance.