❓ Question concerns the impact of scrapping Australian Workplace Agreements (AWAs) on WA's resources sector. Minister assures BHP Billiton that changes will target unfair AWAs affecting low-paid workers, not those with above-award conditions.
AnsweredQoN 407Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
AUSTRALIAN WORKPLACE AGREEMENTS
With your forbearance, Mr Speaker, I take this opportunity to congratulate the Socceroos on their tremendous performance during the FIFA World Cup. We are very proud of them. I congratulate also the Wallabies; it was a great game the other night. I refer the minister to an open letter from Michael Chaney to the federal Leader of the Opposition, Kim Beazley, following Mr Beazley’s announcement that he would scrap Australian workplace agreements. In his letter, Mr Chaney states that AWAs have played a significant part in improving productivity, particularly in sectors that are critical to Australia’s current and future growth, notably mining and resources. (1) Is the minister aware that Western Australia’s $39 billion resources industry employs more than 55 000 people and is recognised as the engine room of our economy? (2) Given the importance of the resources industry to the state’s long-term prosperity, what representations has the minister made to the Premier and Mr Beazley to ensure that AWAs remain an option for employers and employees? Mr J.J.M. BOWLER
With your forbearance, Mr Speaker, I take this opportunity to congratulate the Socceroos on their tremendous performance during the FIFA World Cup. We are very proud of them. I congratulate also the Wallabies; it was a great game the other night. I refer the minister to an open letter from Michael Chaney to the federal Leader of the Opposition, Kim Beazley, following Mr Beazley’s announcement that he would scrap Australian workplace agreements. In his letter, Mr Chaney states that AWAs have played a significant part in improving productivity, particularly in sectors that are critical to Australia’s current and future growth, notably mining and resources. (1) Is the minister aware that Western Australia’s $39 billion resources industry employs more than 55 000 people and is recognised as the engine room of our economy? (2) Given the importance of the resources industry to the state’s long-term prosperity, what representations has the minister made to the Premier and Mr Beazley to ensure that AWAs remain an option for employers and employees? Mr J.J.M. BOWLER
AnswerView source ↗
(1)-(2) I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. I had a meeting this morning with officials from BHP Billiton Ltd, and AWAs were one of the items we talked about. I gave them an assurance that they have nothing to fear from a system that a future federal Labor government would put in place regarding Australian workplace agreements. The fact is that BHP’s award levels are above the rate of enterprise bargaining agreements. However, our system will attack the AWAs at the other end of the scale. I refer to employees such as cleaners, security guards and others who work in my electorate and who are facing the prospect of having to sign an AWA that reduces their wages. Since the introduction of WorkChoices on 27 March, the goalposts have been changed. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : I call to order the members for Vasse and Cottesloe. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
I refer the minister to an open letter from Michael Chaney to the federal Leader of the Opposition, Kim Beazley, following Mr Beazley’s announcement that he would scrap Australian workplace agreements. In his letter, Mr Chaney states that AWAs have played a significant part in improving productivity, particularly in sectors that are critical to Australia’s current and future growth, notably mining and resources. (1) Is the minister aware that Western Australia’s $39 billion resources industry employs more than 55 000 people and is recognised as the engine room of our economy? (2) Given the importance of the resources industry to the state’s long-term prosperity, what representations has the minister made to the Premier and Mr Beazley to ensure that AWAs remain an option for employers and employees? Mr J.J.M. BOWLER replied: (1)-(2) I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. I had a meeting this morning with officials from BHP Billiton Ltd, and AWAs were one of the items we talked about. I gave them an assurance that they have nothing to fear from a system that a future federal Labor government would put in place regarding Australian workplace agreements. The fact is that BHP’s award levels are above the rate of enterprise bargaining agreements. However, our system will attack the AWAs at the other end of the scale. I refer to employees such as cleaners, security guards and others who work in my electorate and who are facing the prospect of having to sign an AWA that reduces their wages. Since the introduction of WorkChoices on 27 March, the goalposts have been changed. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : I call to order the members for Vasse and Cottesloe. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
(1) Is the minister aware that Western Australia’s $39 billion resources industry employs more than 55 000 people and is recognised as the engine room of our economy? (2) Given the importance of the resources industry to the state’s long-term prosperity, what representations has the minister made to the Premier and Mr Beazley to ensure that AWAs remain an option for employers and employees? Mr J.J.M. BOWLER replied: (1)-(2) I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. I had a meeting this morning with officials from BHP Billiton Ltd, and AWAs were one of the items we talked about. I gave them an assurance that they have nothing to fear from a system that a future federal Labor government would put in place regarding Australian workplace agreements. The fact is that BHP’s award levels are above the rate of enterprise bargaining agreements. However, our system will attack the AWAs at the other end of the scale. I refer to employees such as cleaners, security guards and others who work in my electorate and who are facing the prospect of having to sign an AWA that reduces their wages. Since the introduction of WorkChoices on 27 March, the goalposts have been changed. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : I call to order the members for Vasse and Cottesloe. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
(2) Given the importance of the resources industry to the state’s long-term prosperity, what representations has the minister made to the Premier and Mr Beazley to ensure that AWAs remain an option for employers and employees? Mr J.J.M. BOWLER replied: (1)-(2) I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. I had a meeting this morning with officials from BHP Billiton Ltd, and AWAs were one of the items we talked about. I gave them an assurance that they have nothing to fear from a system that a future federal Labor government would put in place regarding Australian workplace agreements. The fact is that BHP’s award levels are above the rate of enterprise bargaining agreements. However, our system will attack the AWAs at the other end of the scale. I refer to employees such as cleaners, security guards and others who work in my electorate and who are facing the prospect of having to sign an AWA that reduces their wages. Since the introduction of WorkChoices on 27 March, the goalposts have been changed. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : I call to order the members for Vasse and Cottesloe. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr J.J.M. BOWLER replied: (1)-(2) I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. I had a meeting this morning with officials from BHP Billiton Ltd, and AWAs were one of the items we talked about. I gave them an assurance that they have nothing to fear from a system that a future federal Labor government would put in place regarding Australian workplace agreements. The fact is that BHP’s award levels are above the rate of enterprise bargaining agreements. However, our system will attack the AWAs at the other end of the scale. I refer to employees such as cleaners, security guards and others who work in my electorate and who are facing the prospect of having to sign an AWA that reduces their wages. Since the introduction of WorkChoices on 27 March, the goalposts have been changed. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : I call to order the members for Vasse and Cottesloe. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
(1)-(2) I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. I had a meeting this morning with officials from BHP Billiton Ltd, and AWAs were one of the items we talked about. I gave them an assurance that they have nothing to fear from a system that a future federal Labor government would put in place regarding Australian workplace agreements. The fact is that BHP’s award levels are above the rate of enterprise bargaining agreements. However, our system will attack the AWAs at the other end of the scale. I refer to employees such as cleaners, security guards and others who work in my electorate and who are facing the prospect of having to sign an AWA that reduces their wages. Since the introduction of WorkChoices on 27 March, the goalposts have been changed. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : I call to order the members for Vasse and Cottesloe. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : I call to order the members for Vasse and Cottesloe. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
The SPEAKER : I call to order the members for Vasse and Cottesloe. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
I refer the minister to an open letter from Michael Chaney to the federal Leader of the Opposition, Kim Beazley, following Mr Beazley’s announcement that he would scrap Australian workplace agreements. In his letter, Mr Chaney states that AWAs have played a significant part in improving productivity, particularly in sectors that are critical to Australia’s current and future growth, notably mining and resources. (1) Is the minister aware that Western Australia’s $39 billion resources industry employs more than 55 000 people and is recognised as the engine room of our economy? (2) Given the importance of the resources industry to the state’s long-term prosperity, what representations has the minister made to the Premier and Mr Beazley to ensure that AWAs remain an option for employers and employees? Mr J.J.M. BOWLER replied: (1)-(2) I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. I had a meeting this morning with officials from BHP Billiton Ltd, and AWAs were one of the items we talked about. I gave them an assurance that they have nothing to fear from a system that a future federal Labor government would put in place regarding Australian workplace agreements. The fact is that BHP’s award levels are above the rate of enterprise bargaining agreements. However, our system will attack the AWAs at the other end of the scale. I refer to employees such as cleaners, security guards and others who work in my electorate and who are facing the prospect of having to sign an AWA that reduces their wages. Since the introduction of WorkChoices on 27 March, the goalposts have been changed. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : I call to order the members for Vasse and Cottesloe. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
(1) Is the minister aware that Western Australia’s $39 billion resources industry employs more than 55 000 people and is recognised as the engine room of our economy? (2) Given the importance of the resources industry to the state’s long-term prosperity, what representations has the minister made to the Premier and Mr Beazley to ensure that AWAs remain an option for employers and employees? Mr J.J.M. BOWLER replied: (1)-(2) I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. I had a meeting this morning with officials from BHP Billiton Ltd, and AWAs were one of the items we talked about. I gave them an assurance that they have nothing to fear from a system that a future federal Labor government would put in place regarding Australian workplace agreements. The fact is that BHP’s award levels are above the rate of enterprise bargaining agreements. However, our system will attack the AWAs at the other end of the scale. I refer to employees such as cleaners, security guards and others who work in my electorate and who are facing the prospect of having to sign an AWA that reduces their wages. Since the introduction of WorkChoices on 27 March, the goalposts have been changed. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : I call to order the members for Vasse and Cottesloe. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
(2) Given the importance of the resources industry to the state’s long-term prosperity, what representations has the minister made to the Premier and Mr Beazley to ensure that AWAs remain an option for employers and employees? Mr J.J.M. BOWLER replied: (1)-(2) I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. I had a meeting this morning with officials from BHP Billiton Ltd, and AWAs were one of the items we talked about. I gave them an assurance that they have nothing to fear from a system that a future federal Labor government would put in place regarding Australian workplace agreements. The fact is that BHP’s award levels are above the rate of enterprise bargaining agreements. However, our system will attack the AWAs at the other end of the scale. I refer to employees such as cleaners, security guards and others who work in my electorate and who are facing the prospect of having to sign an AWA that reduces their wages. Since the introduction of WorkChoices on 27 March, the goalposts have been changed. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : I call to order the members for Vasse and Cottesloe. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr J.J.M. BOWLER replied: (1)-(2) I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. I had a meeting this morning with officials from BHP Billiton Ltd, and AWAs were one of the items we talked about. I gave them an assurance that they have nothing to fear from a system that a future federal Labor government would put in place regarding Australian workplace agreements. The fact is that BHP’s award levels are above the rate of enterprise bargaining agreements. However, our system will attack the AWAs at the other end of the scale. I refer to employees such as cleaners, security guards and others who work in my electorate and who are facing the prospect of having to sign an AWA that reduces their wages. Since the introduction of WorkChoices on 27 March, the goalposts have been changed. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : I call to order the members for Vasse and Cottesloe. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
(1)-(2) I thank the Leader of the Opposition for the question. I had a meeting this morning with officials from BHP Billiton Ltd, and AWAs were one of the items we talked about. I gave them an assurance that they have nothing to fear from a system that a future federal Labor government would put in place regarding Australian workplace agreements. The fact is that BHP’s award levels are above the rate of enterprise bargaining agreements. However, our system will attack the AWAs at the other end of the scale. I refer to employees such as cleaners, security guards and others who work in my electorate and who are facing the prospect of having to sign an AWA that reduces their wages. Since the introduction of WorkChoices on 27 March, the goalposts have been changed. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : I call to order the members for Vasse and Cottesloe. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : I call to order the members for Vasse and Cottesloe. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
The SPEAKER : I call to order the members for Vasse and Cottesloe. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The ground rules changed on 27 March. That is recognised by Kim Beazley and is supported by all Australian families. Everyone in the mining industry in any part of Western Australia will recognise that if people are paid above the award rate and the standard EBA, there is nothing to worry about. Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr T. Buswell : Define a standard EBA. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : If the Deputy Leader of the Opposition cannot work it out, he should not be involved in the parliamentary process. Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr T. Buswell : I don’t think you know what you’re talking about. What is a standard EBA? The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
The SPEAKER : Order, member for Vasse! Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr P.D. Omodei : It is a fair question, Mr Speaker. The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
The SPEAKER : The Leader of the Opposition asked the question, not the member for Vasse. I would appreciate the Leader of the Opposition keeping to himself his comments about who should be allowed to interject. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : The fact is that in Australia, AWAs represent five per cent of the work force. Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr T. Buswell : Rubbish. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
Mr J.J.M. BOWLER : That is the national figure used by the member’s federal colleagues. Common law contracts represent 30 per cent of the Australian work force. If AWAs are abolished, there is no reason that BHP, or any company for that matter, cannot use common law contracts to employ workers. We welcome companies paying Western Australian workers above award conditions and above EBAs. That is currently happening in the mining industry. With the help of the future federal Labor government, which will win the next federal election, we will make sure that those employees at the bottom of the rung are not screwed by unfair AWAs that have screwed some Australian workers and their families since 27 March.
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