The Andrews Labor Government  has today introduced legislation that will ensure greater fairness in public sector enterprise bargaining.

The Fair Work Bill (Commonwealth Powers) Amendment Bill 2016 corrects an anomaly brought about by a decision of the Federal Court in 2015 which allowed some public sector employees to negotiate over  the number, identity or appointment of employees as part of enterprise bargaining.

The legislation supports the efforts of public sector workers and their unions to bargain collectively, and encourages collaboration between the Andrews Labor Government and our vital public sector workers.

The amendment does not impact on enterprise agreements that have already been concluded within the public sector.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Industrial Relations Natalie Hutchins

“These changes are designed to ensure a greater level of consistency and fairness in the bargaining and enterprise agreement making process across the Victorian public sector.”

“We recognise the important work and real services provided by the Victoria’s public sector that are essential to the community, and this work should be recognised and valued.”