Wage justice for cleaners nearer

Major Win for Greens Ethical Procurement Motion

The Tasmanian Greens have hailed the passage of their cleaning contract procurement motion in the last sitting week of the Lower House as a big win for some of the lowest-paid workers in our community.

Greens Industrial Relations spokesperson Tim Morris MP said the vote means that all cleaning companies engaged by the State will need to comply with the Clean Start Collective Agreement as a condition of their contract as soon as existing arrangements mature.

“Today the Lower House voted in support for the Greens move for a fair go for cleaners,” Mr Morris said.

“Tasmania’s cleaners are among some of the state’s poorest paid workers, with many working long hours in difficult conditions in order to support themselves and their families.”

“The State has an ethical obligation to ensure that any company or contractor it engages can guarantee fair pay and conditions for its employees.”

“By backing the nationwide ‘Clean Start Collective Agreement’ campaign, by the United Voice Cleaners Union, the State will be helping to provide a better deal for these often invisible workers.”

“The Greens respect and value the work done by our cleaners, and we are pleased that by securing Labor’s support, a clear message has gone out about ensuring fair wages and working conditions for these often-undervalued workers.”

“The Greens were prepared to support a minor rewording amendment proposed by Labor to secure their support for these measures, which clarified the distinction between State and private contractual responsibilities and specifically included introducing Clean Start now, when contracts are rolled over, which was the real problem.”

“Unfortunately the Liberals chose not to support wage justice for cleaners, choosing instead to hide behind an ideological, anti-union policy that devalues the contribution of these essential front-line workers.”Mr Morris said.
Tim Morris MP Greens Industrial Relations spokesperson