Working from Home and Implications for Metropolitan Strategic Transport Models

Research delivered in partnership with the Institute of Transport and Logistics Studies (ITLS) at the University of Sydney to explore the impact of working from home (WFH) during COVID-19 on transport models.

The research was designed to investigate how working from home (WFH) or remotely have affected people’s travel patterns and behaviours in Australia. Several years into the COVID-19 pandemic, WFH and remote working arrangements have changed the way people view work productivity, lifestyle and travel, which may warrant more permanent and long-term structural responses and strategies regarding transport networks and policy.

Research findings

The final report from this research found:

  • The majority of employers and employees perceive their work productivity levels when working from home or remotely to be the same or better than in their regular workplace before COVID. 
  • As the proportion of days working from home or remotely increases, the number of non-commuting travel increases. 
  • Time saved from reduced commuting is potentially reallocated to trips particularly for shopping, personal business or social recreation.
  • Non-commuting trip activity is likely to occur in more local areas near the homes of those who WFH, hinting at longer-term growth in local trips with modal substitution occurring between car, public transport and active modes based on trip purpose.
  • As main office space use continues to evolve, satellite offices show potential as an alternative working arrangement. Satellite offices offer reprieve from long commutes and being at home for extended periods with limited working facilities and align with the objective of the 20-minute city along with investment in active transport infrastructure. 

Final Report

WFH and Implications for Revision of Metropolitan Strategic Transport Models

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The report summarises the main findings of this research to understand the relationship between WFH during COVID-19 and the Australian transport network. It illustrates the impacts of WFH on travel behaviour, preferences and perceptions regarding work productivity and lifestyle, and the implications for long-term transport planning, transport systems and policy.

This research was delivered in partnership with iMOVE CRC and supported by the Cooperative Research Centres program, an Australian Government initiative.