Business owners in Bendigo's central business district are expressing concern that proposed changes to workplace laws could lead to fewer employees returning to city offices, potentially reducing customer numbers and affecting the local economy.

The concerns have emerged following discussions around expanded work-from-home (WFH) rights that would give employees greater flexibility to work remotely. While supporters argue the changes improve work-life balance and employee wellbeing, some Bendigo traders fear the reforms could further weaken CBD foot traffic that has yet to fully recover from shifts in workplace habits introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Many businesses operating in Bendigo's city centre rely heavily on office workers purchasing coffee, lunch, groceries and other services during the workday. Owners say even a small decline in daily visitor numbers can have a noticeable impact on revenue, particularly for hospitality venues already facing rising operating costs.

Cafe operators and retailers interviewed by the Bendigo Advertiser said office workers play a crucial role in sustaining weekday trade. They worry that if more employees choose to work remotely on a permanent basis, fewer customers will visit the CBD, resulting in lower sales and reduced economic activity throughout the city centre.

Some business owners pointed to the experience of recent years, when remote work arrangements significantly altered customer patterns. Several said they had already adapted by adjusting staffing levels, operating hours and business models, but warned that another major shift away from office attendance could create additional challenges.

Supporters of flexible work arrangements argue that remote work delivers benefits for both employees and employers. Reduced commuting times, lower transport costs and improved work-life balance are frequently cited as advantages. Advocates also note that many workers continue to spend money within their local communities when working from home, potentially shifting economic activity rather than eliminating it.

Employment experts have suggested the future workplace is likely to involve hybrid arrangements, with employees dividing their time between home and the office. Such models have become increasingly common across Australia and are viewed by many organisations as a compromise that balances flexibility with workplace collaboration.

However, Bendigo business leaders say regional CBDs face unique challenges. Unlike major capital cities, regional centres often have a smaller commercial base, making them more sensitive to changes in worker attendance patterns. A reduction in office-based employment activity can have flow-on effects for surrounding businesses, commercial property owners and local service providers.

Industry groups have called for policymakers to consider the broader economic impacts of workplace reforms while balancing the needs of employees and businesses. Some have advocated for initiatives that encourage workers to spend at least part of their week in city offices to help support local economies.

Despite the uncertainty, many Bendigo traders remain hopeful that the city's growing population, tourism sector and diverse business community will continue to attract visitors and sustain economic activity.

As debate continues around Australia's evolving workplace landscape, Bendigo businesses are closely watching developments, concerned that any significant decline in office attendance could reshape the future of the city's CBD.