Union push for changes to casual and contractor labour pay

Unions will pressure the government to change the workplace laws to try to ensure the take-home pay and conditions of contractors, casual and labour-hire workers is no less than that received by directly employed permanent employees doing the same job.

In a move not supported by employers, a meeting of the ACTU executive is expected to endorse the push that aims to lift the pay and entitlements of contractors, casuals and labour-hire employees by changing how they are defined under the Fair Work Act.

Before Work Choices, contractors in Queensland and NSW could take legal action to ensure their take-home pay was no less than direct employees doing the same job. The government has not changed this situation through the current Fair Work Act.

Do you think the provisions which used to apply in NSW and QLD for contractors and casual staff should apply nationally? Or do you think this is too much added pressure for employers?