Why this CEO is choosing to ‘Change the Date at Work’

Anyone who’s worked with me knows that I’m passionate about defining your personal values and acting accordingly. I believe this creates an environment where people collaborate better and feel seen, and helps to unlock creative and diverse ideas. 

As a founder, I also have the opportunity to define company values and act accordingly. As I wrote in SmartCompany last year, it’s important that leaders recognise the weight of each individual decision — and make sure those decisions add up to the kind of world that we want to live in. 

The opposite of unconscious bias is active decision making

This year, as the January 26 public holiday approaches, I’m making a small decision that means a lot to me and to many Australians. We’re choosing to ‘Change the Date at Work’. 

In doing so, we recognise that the date of colonisation is not a day that Indigenous Australians celebrate. We also take a small step towards creating a safer community where cultural differences are discussed, understood and respected.

What’s the plan? 

In 2023, everyone at our company has the choice to ‘swap’ the recognised Australia Day public holiday to another date, meaning they will work on January 26 and take an alternative day off instead. 

I’ve personally chosen to swap it to Monday, January 30th, (which still allows for a long weekend!), but the team can choose any alternative date. It’s completely voluntary, they won’t lose any leave entitlements, and they are responsible for marking their calendars and availability. 

Will it work for everyone? 

Until the government chooses to move Australia Day to a more inclusive date, unfortunately ‘Changing the Date At Work’ does not work for everyone.  

In particular, team members with school or child-care-aged children (which are closed on the 26th), or those who need to align with the plans of their family and friends may not be able to swap to an alternative date. Our policy is set up to be flexible and voluntary. 

How can I get involved?

If you are a manager, leader or founder, you could choose to make ‘Change the Date At Work’ available to your team as well. You could also alter your operating hours and explain why to your audience on social media. 

It’s a simple move that demonstrates you walk the talk when it comes to your values, and that you’re serious about diversity and inclusion as an employer and business. 

You’re also in good company, with Telstra, Woolworths, Paramount, KPMG and the University of Woolongong already taking similar steps. 

And if you are an individual who feels strongly that Australia Day should not be celebrated on January 26, I encourage you to bring this idea to your managers. You never know — you may spark a bigger change, and help create a more inclusive Australia. 

Jeanette Cheah is the CEO and co-founder of HEX.