Microsoft welcomes Prime Minister’s commitment to telework

Sydney — 11 November, 2012 — Pip Marlow, managing director of Microsoft Australia, today welcomed the announcement by Prime Minister Julia Gillard that the Australian Public Service (APS) would commit to the Government’s National Digital Economy Strategy goal by having at least 12 percent of APS employees telework on a regular basis.

“I congratulate the Prime Minister on her announcement today that will see the federal public service experience the benefits of adopting flexible work practices,” said Ms Marlow. “Microsoft Australia is a strong advocate of flexible work including telework and has experienced a boost in employee productivity, engagement and wellbeing as a result.”

Ms Marlow continued: “It is important that Government leads the way if Australia is to have high performing workplaces that are resilient to economic uncertainty and market pressures”.

“Technology underpins the ability to work from anywhere, and Microsoft’s suite of integrated productivity tools allows our people to engage in real-time, virtual communication and collaboration, regardless of location and workspace. The NBN will enable this type of work for more Australians, providing an always on capacity and reliability that home workers need,” said Ms Marlow.

At launch, Windows 8 Pro will be available for purchase as a Full Packed Product (off the shelf product). While for business customers, Windows 8 Enterprise offers new possibilities in mobile productivity with features like Windows To Go, DirectAccess, and BranchCache, as well as enhanced end-to-end security with features including BitLocker and AppLocker.

Microsoft’s ethos stems from the statement “work is a thing you do, not a place you go”. It is this attitude that allows 100 per cent of its employees to choose the environment that allows them to do their best work wherever they are. Microsoft’s offices in Perth, Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane have already moved to an ‘activity based working’ format with plans in progress for its remaining offices over the next couple of years.

“Microsoft looks forward to working with Government agencies to help them embrace the workplace of the future,” said Ms Marlow.

Pip Marlow is a member of the Advisory Panel to the Centre for Workplace Leadership

Microsoft Australia was named “Best of the Best” in AON Hewitt’s 2012 and 2009 Best Employers Accreditation.

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About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realise their full potential.

For further information please contact: Marie-Claire Suter, 02 8281 3815, [email protected]

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