Millions of low paid workers will welcome the priority the Albanese government has given to acting on its election commitment to protect their penalty rates.
This legislation will protect take home pay. If Sussan Ley were fair dinkum she would wholeheartedly support the legislation and acknowledge the electorate’s support for a move that protects the ability of low paid workers to keep a roof over their heads and put food on the table.
This is not theoretical. The Australian Retailers Association and other big business organisations are in the Fair Work Commission seeking to have penalty rates scrapped for some workers in the retail sector.
SDA modelling found that a typical retail worker working afternoon and evening shifts and working every second weekend would be more than $5,000 ($5175.88) worse off under the ARA proposal.
Millions of lower paid retail and hospitality workers will welcome the Albanese Government protecting their take home pay with this legislation.
Quotes from Gerard Dwyer, National Secretary the SDA:
“The Albanese government is to be congratulated and demonstrates how important penalty rates are for employees working unsociable hours as the rest of us enjoy time with our families.
“Ms Ley should show the voters she respects the election result given the coalition has previously voted no fewer than eight times against protecting penalty rates.
“This legislation will guarantee low paid workers are better placed to put food on the table and a roof over their heads.
“Wage theft remains a significant problem in retail and fast food. This legislation will make it harder for employers to dodge their legal responsibilities and show their hard working staff the respect they deserve.”
Contact: Jim Middleton 0418 627066