From 1 July 2005 the Federal Government will take control of the Senate, giving it majority in both Houses of Federal Parliament.

The Federal Government will have the power to pass whatever laws it determines without being blocked or changed by the Senate.

The Howard Government has made it abundantly clear that it wants to utilise its new power in the Senate to “reform” Australia's workplace Industrial Laws, which will result in a number of your basic rights and conditions of employment being removed.

Workplace changes planned by Government include:

1. Establishing one Federal Industrial Relations system for Australian workers.

2. Reducing the powers of the independent Industrial Relations Commission to settle disputes and set fair minimum standards at work.

3. Removing most employment conditions from Awards.

4. Using individual contracts to undercut existing employment rights and conditions.

5. Keeping Unions out of workplaces and reducing workers' negotiating and bargaining rights.

The Federal Government's future legislation will affect you, your family and future generations.

“Your Rights at Work, Worth Fighting For” campaign is about the community and working families. Workers' rights are under unprecedented attack.

The PSA will be conducting information sessions and distributing information to further explain the implications of the Federal Government's Industrial Relations reform.

The Association urges you to support this campaign to ensure the protection of your family's future.

Any further queries please contact PSA Industrial Officer, Simon Johnson

Ph: 8205 3261 or email spj@cpsu.asn.au

31 May 2005