abc.net.au/news/business-rallies-against-same-job-same-pay-laws/102439720The federal government's plan to close a labour hire "loophole" is facing a targeted campaign by some of Australia's largest employers and small business groups, who say it unfairly punishes people who work harder or have more experience.
Peak bodies for mining, petroleum, construction, farming, and small and large business have mounted a national campaign against the proposed "same job, same pay" workplace reforms, which would require labour hire workers doing the same job at the same site to be paid the same as directly employed workers.
"How is it fair that someone with six months' experience can demand the same pay as someone with six years' experience?" Minerals Council chief executive Tania Constable said. "This isn't about stopping businesses rewarding experience. It's about making sure that workers are eligible for the pay and conditions that the employers have agreed with their workforces," Mr Chalmers told the ABC.
The consultation paper does not directly address business concerns about paying for age or experience.Australian Chamber of Commerce chief executive Andrew McKellar said though the legislation was still being consulted on, business groups had mounted a campaign based on concerns that the issue of experience would not be addressed.