The NSW government has issued a new directive for government sector staff to work mostly from the office, reversing its hybrid work policy.
As the biggest employer in the country, with over 400,000 staff, it means a rethink for many workers across the state.
Government sector workers include office workers, rangers, nurses, health workers and paramedics, teachers and school support staff, case workers, emergency response workers, transport workers, police officers and correctional officers.
"The starting position is that Government Sector employees work principally in an approved workplace in NSW," a directive from the Secretary of the Premier's Department issued on Monday reads.
"Arrangements to work from home on some occasions must take into consideration the wider needs of Departments, agencies, the community and stakeholders."
Working patterns were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the directive reads.
However the department says a "sense of belonging" to organisations and teams is essential.
"The more our experience of work is shared, the more united we become. That means being physically present in our organisations."
Individual agencies will be required to set their own policies.
Property Council of Australia NSW executive director Katie Stevenson said the move was a strong and positive step that would bring "more vibrancy, investment, business, and talent to our cities".
