Here at The Burnt Chef Project, we’re dedicated to supporting workers in the hospitality industry.

I have seen firsthand the toll that relentless work schedules can take on our people. Hospitality is a vibrant, fast-paced industry, but it’s also one of the most demanding. Our employees are the backbone of this sector, working long, irregular hours to ensure that guests have memorable experiences. However, this often comes at the cost of their own well-being.

The recent enactment of Australia’s “right to disconnect” law is not just a legislative change; it’s a vital lifeline for hospitality workers. For too long, the lines between work and personal life have been blurred, particularly in an industry that never truly sleeps. The expectation to be constantly available—even outside of scheduled hours—has led to an epidemic of burnout, stress, and anxiety among our workforce. A 2022 survey by the Center for Future Work found that 70% of Australians are working beyond their scheduled hours. In hospitality, this figure is likely even higher.

The “right to disconnect” is a necessary step to protect our workers from the relentless demands that have become all too common in our industry. It empowers them to set boundaries, to say “no” when work encroaches on their personal time, without the fear of retribution. This is not just about protecting their time; it’s about preserving their mental health and well-being. It’s about acknowledging that our workers are human beings with lives outside of their jobs.

Critics, including the Business Council of Australia, argue that this law could hinder productivity and strain employer-employee relationships. I understand these concerns. Hospitality is a service-oriented industry where timing is crucial, and unexpected issues can arise at any moment. However, I believe that with careful planning and a commitment to respecting employees’ personal time, these challenges can be managed effectively.

In fact, I would argue that this law could improve productivity in the long run. When workers are well-rested, mentally healthy, and feel respected by their employers, they are more likely to perform better during their working hours. The law also forces us to rethink how we operate—pushing us to innovate in ways that could lead to more efficient and sustainable business practices.

Moreover, this law offers an opportunity to improve employee retention in an industry known for its high turnover rates. The younger generation of workers places a high value on work-life balance. By embracing the right to disconnect, we can make the hospitality industry a more attractive and sustainable career choice, rather than a temporary job.

That said, the transition won’t be easy. It will require training and clear communication within our teams. We need to set clear guidelines about what constitutes an emergency and when it’s appropriate to contact staff outside of work hours. It’s a cultural shift, but it’s one that is long overdue.

Our charity will continue to support hospitality workers as they navigate this new landscape. We are committed to providing resources, training, and support to help both employees and employers adapt to these changes. The “right to disconnect” is a step in the right direction, but it’s just the beginning. Together, we can create a healthier, more balanced industry—one where workers are valued not just for the service they provide, but for the people they are.

Let’s seize this opportunity to build a better future for our industry, one that respects the well-being of its workers as much as it does the satisfaction of its guests.