Natasha is a leading HR expert, entrepreneur, author and sought-after media commentator for outlets such as Sunrise (Channel 7), ABC Radio and The Australian Financial Review. Natasha co-founded Employee Matters in 2011 to help Australian businesses achieve success through their people.
When Australia's World Cup campaign captured the nation's attention, many workplaces experienced something unexpected: a noticeable increase in employee absences.
Employee Matters Managing Director Natasha Hawker recently shared her workplace expertise with SBS News, discussing the impact major sporting events can have on attendance, employee engagement and workforce planning.
Rather than focusing solely on absenteeism, Natasha highlighted the importance of understanding why it happens and how employers can prepare proactively while maintaining positive workplace culture.
Read Natasha's full comments in the SBS article below.
The Great Socceroos Sickie: What Employers Can Learn
Australia's lunchtime World Cup clash against Paraguay sparked what many fans jokingly called the "Great Australian Socceroos Sickie."
According to workforce management data reported by SBS, absenteeism increased across several frontline industries during Australia's World Cup matches, particularly hospitality, retail and services.
Speaking with SBS News, Natasha Hawker explained that while some absences may have been linked to football fever, employers should also remember the timing coincided with winter, when genuine illness naturally increases. She also noted that many affected industries rely heavily on casual workforces, where employee commitment can differ due to the nature of casual employment.
Importantly, Natasha observed that many office-based organisations took a different approach by embracing the occasion. Rather than seeing widespread absenteeism, many employers organised workplace watch parties or allowed flexible start and finish times so employees could enjoy the match while remaining engaged at work.
Her message is clear: major sporting events don't have to become HR headaches when employers plan ahead.
By recognising events that matter to employees and offering practical flexibility where possible, businesses can strengthen trust, improve morale and reduce unexpected absences.
What Employers Should Consider
Major sporting events, from the FIFA World Cup to the Olympics, State of Origin and AFL or NRL Grand Finals, can all affect workplace attendance and productivity.
Instead of reacting to last-minute absences, employers should consider:
Planning ahead for major sporting calendars.
Encouraging employees to request leave in advance.
Offering flexible working arrangements where operationally possible.
Creating workplace viewing opportunities or team events.
Communicating attendance expectations clearly and consistently.
Applying leave and attendance policies fairly across all employees.
A proactive approach not only reduces disruption but also helps create a workplace culture built on trust and engagement.
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