Trade unions in Australia are celebrating the historic victory of the Labour government in national elections on Nov. 24, says a Public Services International bulletin.
The major issue in the election was the Conservative ‘Coalition Government’ anti-union legislation called ‘WorkChoices’,” David Carey, a PSI executive member, said. He explained that it meant cuts in pay, cuts in conditions and no complaints possible.
“Australian voters have shown they believe in a fair society that respects workers’ rights, both as an individual right, and as a right for their choice to be in a trade union,” Carey added. “Australia now has a chance to work to regain its position, in the community of nations, as a democratic, fair, ethical, and compassionate society.”
“The Australian people have totally rejected the vicious anti-union campaign of the Liberal and National Party in this election,” said Sharan Burrow, president of the Australian Council of Trade Unions.