FEDERAL GOVERNMENT INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS CHANGES

TRADE UNION CONCERNS ABOUT THE PROPOSED CHANGES
The Federal Government's new workplace laws are a backward step for Australian working people. They attack the notion of fairness in the workplace.

The changes proposed by the Government threaten the basic rights, pay and entitlements of Australian working people.

The changes will see many employees lose conditions like weekend, shift and public holiday rates; overtime; redundancy pay; paid maternity leave, carers leave, allowances; and casual loadings.

The Government's plans would make it harder for working Australians to maintain their present standard of living.

The reduction of the role of the Australian Industrial Commission and the establishment of a narrowly focused Fair Pay Commission will mean a reduction in minimum pay rates and this will flow on to all employees

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES
The biggest impact will be on a family's income and the time they have together.

Loss of conditions like penalty rates will mean a reduction in employees take home pay.

The move to a more deregulated workplace will mean employees will have less control over the times they will be required to work.

Longer hours and more weekend work will mean fewer people will be able to participate in community, religious and sporting events and coaching weekend sports.

The changes will add to the feeling of insecurity in the workplace meaning families will think twice before making long term commitments

UNIONS POSITION:
Unions believe we should have workplace laws based on the following principles: -

• A strong safety net of award minimum wages and conditions

• Proper rights for Australian workers to reject individual contracts and bargain for decent pay and conditions in collective agreements

• The right to join a union and to be represented by a union

• A strong, independent Industrial Relations Commission to settle disputes and ensure fair minimum wages and conditions

These things are vital to protect Australian living standards, families and the Australian way of life.

For more information contact Ainslie Gowan Lennon on (03) 8327 0800 1601 or go to www.rightsatwork.com.au