Workplace relations

Overview

Mining is the largest contributor to the Australian economy, accounting for almost 10 per cent of GDP. The industry is the largest source of the nation’s export income, with the resources sector accounting for $413 billion (69 per cent) of the nation’s export revenue in 2021-22.

In addition, the mining industry:

• Employed 286,000 people in 2020-21 – and directly and indirectly supports over 1.1 million jobs at over 200 operating mine sites and in supply chains
• Pays more on average than any other industry in Australia ($148,000 a year compared to $96,800 across all industries) – with 99 per cent of mining workers earning above-Award wages and conditions
• Provides secure jobs, with 86 per cent of mining workers employed on a permanent basis and 96 per cent employed full time.

Policy Priorities

‘Same Job, Same Pay” and the “Closing Loopholes” legislation

The Government’s ‘Same Job, Same Pay” legislation isn’t about equal pay for men and women. Nor is it about “closing loopholes”.

It’s about creating devastating complexity for businesses and workers that will threaten jobs, businesses and ultimately, drive up the cost-of-living. It is a direct attack on the effectiveness of Australia’s mining and resources industries.

At a time when there are multiple challenges for the entire Australian economy with high inflation, high interest rates, flagging productivity and overseas competition for investment, now is not the time to introduce workplace relations changes that do nothing to meet these challenges.

We are proud that mining is already Australia’s highest paying and most productive industry. These changes will only discourage investment, reduce productivity and ultimately reduce job opportunities and wage growth in mining.

• The Government’s Bill should not be passed by Parliament.
• The Bill should be scrapped and the Government needs to go back to the drawing board.

Go to findabetterway.com.au to find out more.