Master Electricians backs calls for more flexibility in workplace laws
Master Electricians Australia has today thrown its support behind industry calls for greater flexibility in Australia’s workplace relations landscape.
Master Electricians Australia National Manager – Workplace Policy, Paul Daly, said the organisation supported the call by the Australian Industry Group, saying current laws were sapping the ability of employers and employees to strike arrangements that suited them.
Mr Daly said the electrical trades industry had seen, in recent months, the re-emergence of pattern bargaining across the nation, particularly in Victoria, and interpretations of the Fair Work Act which have handed unions extraordinary rights to enter worksites and recruit members.
“We’ve seen a significant power shift back towards the bad old days when union officials effectively controlled access to a construction site,” Mr Daly said.
“We’ve seen a major loss of control for business owners over their own affairs, including the ability to strike workplace relations that suit their individual needs and those of their employees.
“In order to maintain and create jobs, businesses need flexible workplace arrangements and the freedom to operate without having to report to union bosses.
“At a time when the construction industry is already struggling, this is adding additional cost to projects and further reduce the viability of businesses in the sector.
