UnionsWA has today commented the release by the Australian Bureau of Statistics of labour force data showing a continuing rise in unemployment in WA particularly among men. 

This week a Senate Inquiry into the impact of Australia's temporary work visa programs on the Australian labour market and on the temporary work visa holders will hold hearings in Perth.

How timely that the ABC has found that a 457 worker who bravely blew the whistle on exploitation has been sacked. Check out the original story and follow up here: 

WA Unions have welcomed the tabling of The Impact of FIFO Work Practices on Mental Health: Final Report as the next step towards improving the mental health of FIFO workers.

Low wage outcome “deeply disappointing”

UnionsWA has commented on the decision today by the WA Industrial relations Commission in the WA State Wage Case.

UnionsWA has today commented on hearings by the WA Industrial Relations Commission in the State Wage Case, which will determine wages for around one hundred thousand working West Australians on the WA Minimum Wage and reliant awards as well as the decision in the Federal Minimum Wage Case that awarded a 2.5% increase.

UnionsWA has called for a Royal Commission to investigate mine and other work deaths in WA following increased in work fatalities in the WA resources sector.  The death of a mine worker at the Birla Nifty Copper Mine has highlighted the need for an independent mines safety body backed by stronger safety laws.

Photo courtesy of ABC

UnionsWA has commented on the release by the WA Industrial Relations Commission of submissions in the State Minimum Wage case.  That case affects an estimated 100,000 minimum wage and State Award reliant workers.  The Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA has recommended a wage freeze for the lowest paid while the WA Government recommends a 2.0% increase, well below its increases to essential service fees in the recent State Budget.  

ABC journalist, Rebecca Carmody, interviews Meredith Hammat on the WA Minimum Wage case.

UnionsWA today commented on the release of the 2015 WA state budget including wide-ranging job and services cuts, huge increases in fees and charges and the sale of public assets.

As thousands of union members, their family and friends gathered in Fremantle to commemorate May Day, UnionsWA has highlighted that the original purpose of May Day, to secure an eight hour working day, remains relevant. 

Eight hours work, eight hours rest, eight hours play.

Commemorating Workers’ Memorial Day, UnionsWA has today commented on the need to improve occupational health and safety measures with a priority on preventing work deaths and injuries.