Embracing the9-Day Fortnight:One Year OnEmbracing the 9-Day Fortnight:One Year On

One initiative that NBRS implemented a year ago was the introduction of a 9-day fortnight. With longer weekends and more time for personal commitments, NBRS employees have been able to rejuvenate, spend quality time with their families and engage in activities that promote physical and mental well-being - allowing them to rekindle their creative spirit.

As we reflect on the past year, it’s been wonderful to hear directly from many of our team members how the 9 Day Fortnight has helped them personally and professionally and as a business, how this initiative has positively impacted NBRS.

Enhanced Productivity:
A 9-day fortnight has boosted our productivity, and our team return to work feeling refreshed and energised, ready to tackle tasks with a renewed focus. This increased productivity is attributed to improved well-being and the ability to manage personal responsibilities.

"The 9-day fortnight initiative orchestrates a harmonious dance between my engaging career, invaluable family time and self-nurturing. On the Friday off I recharge and relish in the joy of creating lifelong memories with my two young daughters. Balancing professional aspirations, nurturing my spirit, and fostering the blossoming of young minds is a symphony that fuels my sense of fulfilment."

Shanica Saenrak Hall, National Sustainability Lead, Melbourne Studio | Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Country

Improved Morale and Engagement:
The 9-day fortnight has positively impacted employee morale and overall engagement. Employees feel appreciated and empowered, knowing that NBRS prioritises their personal lives and recognises the importance of healthy work-life integration.

“The 9-day fortnight gives me the opportunity to spend extra quality time with my family. We use the extra day to get away for the weekend and gives us the opportunity to spend more meaningful time connecting with the kids on our adventures. You would be amazed how much difference an extra day makes!”

Jonathan Leatheam, Principal - Landscape Architecture, Brisbane Studio | Turrbal & Jagera Country

Employee Retention and Talent Attraction:
Implementing a 9-day fortnight has positioned NBRS as an industry leader. This progressive work arrangement has become a strong selling point in retaining our talent and attracting new team members. Potential employees are drawn to NBRS’ approach and demonstrated commitment to employee well-being.

“Our 9-day fortnight provides a sought-after work-life balance that sets us apart from competitors in retaining and attracting top talent. Personally, the 9-day fortnight was a big motivating factor in my decision to pursue a role with NBRS. I’m now lucky enough to be part of the team who drive this initiative and continue to provide this benefit to current and prospective employees”.

Amber McIntosh, People & Culture Officer, Sydney Studio | Cammeraygal Country

One year on, the implementation of the 9-day fortnight at NBRS has proven to be pointing the way to a new model for work in Architecture and Design, and we are thrilled to see many of our industry peers adopting similar initiatives The positive outcomes of improved work-life balance, increased productivity, talent attraction and retention and environmental consciousness, validate the value of this flexible work arrangement.

At NBRS, we continue to prioritise understanding our people's ever-changing, diverse needs, and the 9-day fortnight remains a key component of our commitment to fostering a healthy and thriving culture.