Greens industrial relations spokesperson Adam Bandt MP today supported the Woolworths Laverton workers taking action and said this dispute adds further weight for the government to amend the Fair Work Act.
“In an economy where the unemployment rate is high and people are facing an uncertain future for their jobs, I can understand the stress and anxiety these workers are feeling,” Mr Bandt said.
“They and their families are depending on secure work for their livelihoods and it’s no wonder they are taking action to stand up for their jobs.”
“We have to stop making people’s lives more insecure, otherwise we will start seeing more and more disputes like this.”
“The government has turned the Fair Work Commission from an umpire into a policeman.”
“Now all it can do is issue orders rather than get people in a room and fix a dispute.”
“This dispute is another sign that we need to change the Fair Work Act to give the umpire the power to settle these disputes fairly and fully.”
Media contact: Adam Pulford, 0429 109 054
