Since taking to power in September, Prime Minister Tony Abbott and his Coalition Government have relentlessly tried to frame the conversation on the Australian economy against working people and their hard won fair wages and conditions.
But we need to be clear on the facts.
Recent data has shown that in the year to 31st December 2013 the wage price index only increased by 2.6%.
Given that the consumer price index rose 2.7%, this is hardly the wages blow out position that the Federal Government are pushing to the Australian people.
Newspapers are already reporting that Australians will face the worst youth unemployment with the figure currently sitting at 12.4%, which is double of the entire workforce. Finding a job will become especially difficult for young people living in Tasmania, Cairns and Northern Adelaide.
We are facing the worst unemployment figures in a decade and the whole union movement is waiting for Tony Abbott to step up and deliver a jobs plan for Australians facing an uncertain employment future.
It is becoming more important than ever for workers to join their union. The ASU has a strong record in standing up for wages and conditions – and we will continue to educate our members on the facts of the Australian economy and wages.
Young Australians need every opportunity to build a life, but on current projections we could be facing terrible rates of unemployment for 15 to 24 year olds.
Prime Minister Tony Abbott’s claims that workers pay and conditions are forcing businesses to leave our shores simply aren’t true. It’s not right to blame the workers and the people who fight for their rights.
The work that unions do to ensure fair pay, as well as safe and decent working conditions has made life for Australian workers better.
– Ingrid Stitt
