Dutton backtracks on work-from-home policy after backlash

Opposition leader Peter Dutton admitted that his Coalition's policy to end work-from-home arrangements for public servants was a mistake, following significant backlash from voters, particularly among women. Initially, Dutton had pledged to mandate that public servants return to the office five days a week, but the policy quickly became a liability, contributing to a drop in support for the Coalition in the election campaign. In response to the criticism, the Coalition has now decided to maintain current flexible working arrangements and will not enforce a minimum number of office days. Dutton expressed regret during a media interview, indicating a desire to regain trust, saying, 'We made a mistake.' His reversal also includes a backtrack on plans to cut 41,000 public service jobs through forced redundancies. Supporters within the party praised Dutton for demonstrating leadership by acknowledging the policy's flaws and pivoting to a more acceptable stance.