The return of Melbourne office workers stalled in June when cold weather increased the number of people with colds, flu and COVID-19.
New Property Council data provided to The Age shows that Melbourne’s offices remained the most empty of any state capital last month, even before a peak of case forecasts over the next month that it would probably bring more people working from home.
Melbourne had an especially cold winter start. Credit: Jason South
Office workers, whose purchases support thousands of downtown businesses, have steadily returned in recent months, with an employment rate rising from 36% to 48% between April and May . However, this trend stalled in June when a rate of 49 percent was recorded.
Victorian Property Council executive director Danni Hunter said in a statement that “contrary to what some people say, the office is not dead. It’s just in bed with chicken soup.”
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“Melbourne’s CBD has enjoyed a steady recovery in office occupancy rates since the beginning of the year. However, the winter season has caught up with us and taken a break in the number of workers who want or can enter the office “.
“As happens every year, Melbourne will flourish in the spring and the idyllic weather and many events that adorn our calendar at this time of year will attract people under the doona and return to our city.”
In comparison, Sydney’s office occupancy rate in June was 55% and Brisbane’s 64%.
The Andrews government on Tuesday recommended that people wear masks inside. He chose not to force himself to cover his face, despite the advice of health officials. Business groups, including the Victoria Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Australian Industry Group, urged Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas not to take a strict mandate, citing business interests and possible breaches when announcing the your decision.