Only one option for fair IR laws

While the recent High Court decision was not unexpected, it clarifies that the only remaining way to change the Federal Government's unfair workplace laws is at the ballot box.

On November 14 the High Court ruled by a 5-2 majority that the Federal Government's WorkChoices legislation is constitutional.

It is important to note, however, that the ruling does not mean the High Court considers WorkChoices fair or unfair, merely that it is not unconstitutional.

Being part of the Federal IR system already the ruling will make no direct difference to most CPSU members, but it does confirm that millions more Australian workers have lost rights and that 100 years of protection for working families is gone.

These protections saw workers share in the economic good times through safeguards such as the award system and regular wage increases.

Under WorkChoices these protections are gone.

While the High Court decision was not unexpected, it clarifies that the only remaining way to change these laws is at the ballot box.

This ruling not only allows the Government free reign with the worst excesses of WorkChoices - it also potentially allows for Federal takeover of health, education and pretty much anything else currently legislated for by the States.

The Prime Minister subsequently said he will not use the ruling "for some massive expansion of Commonwealth power". We'll have to wait and see whether this is a "core" or "non-core promise".

So far those worst affected by WorkChoices have been those least able to protect themselves - young workers, the low-skilled and those without union support. But employers now have carte blanche to cut the pay, conditions and rights at work of all Australians.

Following the High Court decision the only way left to create a fairer, inclusive system of industrial relations - and to protect our health and education systems for all - is through the ballot box at the next federal election.

The CPSU, other unions, and the ACTU will now intensify the campaign for a fair set of industrial relations laws and seek community support for a change of Government in the 2007 election.

The next opportunity for people to show the Federal Government what they think of these unfair IR laws comes on Thursday, 30 November with the National Union and Community Day of Action. Hundreds of events will be held throughout the country - all linked through a Sky Channel broadcast from the MCG.

Find out more: www.cpsu.org.au/campaigns/IRCampaign