Friday, February 15, 2008

New Employment Standards

All Australians will be able to look forward to a more secure working future under the 10 new employment standards proposed by the Rudd Government, says ACTU President Sharan Burrow.

“These 10 minimum standards combined with a modernised award system will restore rights stripped away by the previous government and create a stronger, more humane safety net in all workplaces,” says Ms Burrow.

The ACTU president says extended parental leave and the right for parents to request more flexible work arrangements recognise the needs of working families in the 21st century.

“These new standards reflect the modern pressures of life and the real need of people to be able to balance work, life and family commitments.”

The 10 standards also call for consistent long service leave entitlements across all states and territories as well as basic termination and redundancy payments for employees.

“This means the most vulnerable in our workforce can expect a basic level of security and certainty, particularly in an uncertain economic climate.”

The ACTU welcomes the consultative approach. This should ensure the new regulations can be readily implemented by employers and provide an effective and enforceable set of standards for all workers.

The 10 standards include:

  • Hours of work
  • Parental leave
  • Flexible work for parents
  • Annual leave
  • Personal, carers and compassionate leave
  • Community service leave
  • Long service leave
  • Public holidays
  • Termination of employment and redundancy
  • Fair Work information statement
more

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