In a significant shift towards promoting work-life balance and mental health, Australian small businesses and employees are increasingly adopting the ‘right to disconnect’ principle. This movement, which originated in France, recognizes an employee’s right to disconnect from work-related tasks and responsibilities outside of work hours. The aim is to reduce the blur between work and personal life, allowing individuals to recharge and maintain their physical and mental well-being. As the modern workplace continues to evolve, the right to disconnect is becoming a vital aspect of employee rights and employer responsibilities. In Australia, small businesses are at the forefront of this movement, recognizing the importance of supporting their employees’ mental health and well-being. By implementing policies that respect employees’ right to disconnect, small businesses can improve productivity, reduce turnover rates, and enhance their reputation as employers of choice. The right to disconnect is not just a moral obligation, but also a sound business strategy. Employees who are able to disconnect from work-related tasks outside of work hours are more likely to return to work refreshed, motivated, and focused. This, in turn, can lead to increased productivity, better work quality, and improved job satisfaction. Moreover, the right to disconnect can help reduce the risk of burnout, a common phenomenon in today’s fast-paced work environment. Burnout can have severe consequences on an individual’s mental and physical health, including anxiety, depression, and cardiovascular disease. By respecting employees’ right to disconnect, small businesses can help mitigate these risks and create a healthier, more sustainable work environment. The Australian government has also taken steps to support the right to disconnect, with the Fair Work Act 2009 providing provisions for employees to request flexible work arrangements. Additionally, the Australian Human Rights Commission has recognized the importance of work-life balance and the need for employers to respect employees’ right to disconnect. As the right to disconnect movement gains momentum in Australia, small businesses are being encouraged to review their policies and practices to ensure they are supporting their employees’ mental health and well-being. This may involve implementing policies such as not contacting employees outside of work hours, unless in exceptional circumstances, or providing employees with the technology and tools they need to manage their work-life balance. Some small businesses are also exploring innovative approaches to support employees’ right to disconnect, such as offering flexible work arrangements, providing mental health support services, or encouraging employees to take breaks and practice self-care. The benefits of the right to disconnect are not limited to employees; employers can also reap significant rewards. By supporting employees’ right to disconnect, small businesses can improve their reputation, attract and retain top talent, and enhance their overall business performance. As the Australian small business sector continues to grow and evolve, the right to disconnect is likely to become an increasingly important aspect of the employment landscape. With its strong focus on work-life balance, mental health, and employee well-being, the right to disconnect movement is set to have a lasting impact on the way small businesses operate and interact with their employees. In conclusion, the right to disconnect is a vital aspect of modern employment, and Australian small businesses are at the forefront of this movement. By prioritizing employees’ mental health and well-being, small businesses can create a healthier, more sustainable work environment, improve productivity, and enhance their reputation as employers of choice.