The passage through the committee stage today of the Workplaces (Protection from Protestors) Bill is an historic moment in the history of worker rights.
Subject to the Bill’s third reading, for the first time, workplaces and workers will now have specific protections from radical protestors seeking to make their point by destroying livelihoods.
We took the policy principles of this Bill to the March election where they were overwhelmingly endorsed by the people of Tasmania, and it is very pleasing that the Government has been able to deliver on our commitment.
In contrast, Labor has once again deserted workers, with their Member in the Legislative Council opposing this bill every step of the way
While it was disappointing that the Legislative Council narrowly voted to remove mandatory sentences, it is notable that the maximum penalty for repeat offenders has been doubled from two to four years, sending a strong message about the Parliament’s view of the severity of such offences.
The Legislative Council has also passed a number of amendments addressing a range of perceived unintended consequences.
As a result, Tasmania will now have the strongest legislation in the country to protect the rights of workers to lawfully earn a living, while ensuring the right to free speech and legitimate protest have been protected.
A clear message has been sent to the radical protesters, to the workers in the forest and mining industries whose livelihoods they have tried to destroy, and to the wider community.
No longer will Tasmania tolerate the extremists; you may have your say but you may not stop workers from earning a living.
Paul Harriss, Minister for Resources
