GTA 6 launches November 19, employers brace for staff absences
GTA 6 launches November 19, and shift management data predicts a spike in workplace absences.
The latest Grand Theft Auto game arrives November 19 in Australia after 13 years. Deputy, a shift management platform, has flagged that workplaces should prepare for increased staff absences, similar to past major game launches.
Previous big releases like Elden Ring and Overwatch 2 prompted absences among workers. Pre-downloads are already live, letting players start the moment servers open.
Even the Fair Work Ombudsman issued a tongue-in-cheek warning, reminding workers to submit leave requests properly before taking unplanned time off. In the UK, 5% of leave requests on the launch day cited GTA 6, representing about £3.14 million in annual leave used in one day.
- 13 years
- Years since last GTA
- November 19
- Launch date
- 5%
- UK leave citing GTA 6
- £3.14 million
- UK annual leave value
Why it mattersBusinesses need to plan for staffing shortages, and workers who skip unplanned may face consequences if they lack approved leave.
AustraliaAustralian employers should prepare for a surge in staff absences on November 19 and possibly the day before, when pre-download demand peaks.
