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Winter 2005

People power forces Howard’s first backflip

WORKERS WHO ARE CAMPAIGNING against the Howard Government’s proposed industrial relations laws received a boost this week with the Government’s first backdown. The government originally announced that the working week would be forty hours per week, which, for millions of Australian workers, is an increase in hours.

After pressure from union members the Prime Minister announced on Thursday 23rd June that the maximum weekly hours would be thirty-eight.

This first backdown gives union members trying to put the pressure on the Government considerable heart and confidence that more change is possible. It proves that pressure on Liberal Party Senators can be effective.

Remember, the Senate majority the Government has after July 1 is just one Senator. That means only one Senator from the Liberal or National parties needs to oppose the legislation and the new laws will not pass.

It is essential members continue to keep the pressure on Liberal Senators in Tasmania. Keep writing to them, send them emails and let them know how you feel about the proposed laws. If you want some assistance in drafting an email please contact your HACSU regional office. Note that there is a ready to go letter on the website.