‘It is easier than you think and definitely worthwhile.’

Fresh Ideas funding recipient - Evolve Energy Pty Ltd

While his son receives treatment for a serious heart condition, Cairns businessman, David Smyth, is able to use wireless internet to continue with his work as he sits alongside Nathaniel for long hours in a Brisbane hospital.

Not so long ago, David, a co-director of Evolve Energy, had little choice but to stay in Cairns while his wife Helen, an administrator of the business, took their two boys to the hospital in Brisbane during the three weeks of treatment every three months.

Now a grant obtained through the Fresh Ideas for Work and Family program has enabled Evolve Energy to implement a ‘work anywhere’ strategy which gives staff the choice of working outside the office environment if this assists them in balancing their work and family responsibilities.

This has involved introducing mobile PC systems equipped with remote access to be used when employees are unable to get to the office but still wish to be able to complete work and have access to projects.

For David and his family, this new arrangement has been an invaluable development.

‘The ‘work anywhere’ arrangement has allowed our business and our employees to achieve greater freedom and flexibility to work when they wish,’ says David.

‘The flexibility is great for staff and they are really happy with the new arrangements.’

Evolve Energy was also able to establish a room for David and Helen’s two boys as well as co-director, Grant Behrendorff’s two children.

‘Our new kid’s room means staff can bring their children in to the workplace in emergencies, knowing they are safe here,’ he says. ‘A highlight has been seeing the kids rush to the Kids Room and parents taking their kids for lunch.

‘Prior to implementing the Kid’s Room and the Work Anywhere Strategy we felt that our work and family lives were quite separate and our family responsibilities were suffering.

‘So we decided to apply for a grant to assist us to implement some new family friendly initiatives.’
Equipment purchased to support the new arrangements includes laptops, business software, a desktop PC, television and DVD player. David says that for the employer the benefits are increased productivity – both in terms of quality and quantity - and improved staff retention.

‘For the employees there is more time with family and flexibility.’

David is keen to share the positive experience his company has had in setting up a family room and work from home arrangements.

‘We have found the funding program very user friendly. Each step was well explained and easy to follow. Our advice to others is to implement family friendly working arrangements. It is easier than you think and definitely worthwhile.’