MCA supports move to split contentious IR bill

The Minerals Council of Australia welcomes moves from Senator Jacqui Lambie and Senator David Pocock to split the Albanese Government’s highly contentious Industrial Relations bill and pass important safety elements of the bill that have broad consensus.

This is a commonsense approach that will support vulnerable workers at their time of need.

The MCA supports measures in the omnibus bill relating to simplifying compensation for first responders, expanding the Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency, improving protections for employees subjected to family and domestic violence, and clearer rules around small business insolvencies.

Safety in every workplace is paramount, and the first and most important consideration for all employers. These separate measures not only improve safety, but protect vulnerable workers, and support first responders to be able to do their jobs to the best of their abilities, at times of national crisis and emergency.

First responders are always there for their communities. This is a time when Australia can be there for them.

It is extremely disappointing that the Government has attempted to conflate these uncontentious measures, particularly enhanced support for victims of domestic violence, with broad, complex and divisive changes to workplace law.

The senate has a well established process for dealing with non-controversial legislation in a quick and efficient manner. This process should now be used for such measures.