ASU calls on Parliament to pass the Closing the Loopholes Bill

 

The ASU has taken a firm stance on the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes) Bill 2023, and we firmly believe that Parliament must support this critical piece of legislation.

Our Union has made a submission to the Senate Inquiry into this bill emphasising several key issues, including addressing the exploitation of labour hire loopholes by many employers.

In aviation, the threat of labour hire replacing permanent jobs is constantly over workers' heads. The ASU wholeheartedly supports the proposed reforms aimed at closing labour hire loopholes. It is unacceptable that some businesses exploit labour-hire arrangements to undercut the pay and conditions of directly employed workers. Many employers have wielded labour hire as a bargaining chip, threatening to replace permanent staff with cheaper labour-hire workers during negotiations. Some even opt for gradually replacing higher-paid permanent staff with lower-paid labour hire casuals over an extended period.

Not all decisions to engage external labour are driven by a desire to undermine fair wages and conditions. However, there should be mechanisms in place to address unfair pay rates, even if such disparities were not the initial intent of the business. We must level the playing field and ensure all workers are treated fairly.

Across all industries, job security has diminished, and work has become increasingly precarious. Qantas is a glaring example of job cuts and closing vital customer service roles that negatively affect workers and customers. These jobs must return and be transformed into permanent, in-house positions within the airline industry.

Qantas is not an isolated case when it comes to mistreatment of workers. Our industrial relations system must be fixed to ensure access, quality and secure employment. Regardless of their employment status—contractors, labour-hire workers, on-demand employees, or casuals—every worker deserves the same protections and minimum standards.

The Closing Loopholes Bill represents a significant step towards achieving this goal. It is time for Parliament to step up, close these damaging loopholes, and pass the bill.  If you are not a member, now is the time to join. You can join today at https://www.theservicesunion.com.au/tsu/join

If you require any support or additional information, please contact your local delegates or Organiser at: