Comprehensive review of workplace laws welcomed to grow Victorian jobs

VECCI Chief Executive Mark Stone has welcomed the release of the issues papers regarding Australia’s Workplace Relations Framework.

"It is positive that the papers address areas of widespread concern identified by business, including the lack of flexibility in Australian workplace relations laws and the fragmented nature of these laws across jurisdictions, the adversarial nature of the current system, the high cost imposed on business and the absence of productivity improvement as a central feature of enterprise agreements," Mr Stone said.

"The key outcomes of the review must be the creation of a simpler, fairer and more efficient Workplace Relations Framework that spurs economic growth, increased productivity and improved business competitiveness and certainty.

"Job creation must be the priority as metropolitan and regional Victorian communities are faced with significant unemployment and industries continue to transition in the face of strong international competition," Mr Stone said.

"The operation of penalty rates needs to be reviewed to enable small business to employ more people and reflect the changing nature of the economy and labour market where the growth of the service sector, part time and casual work, extended trading hours and flexibility are the norm for many.

"We look forward to the review consulting thoroughly with business and encourage Victorian business to take this opportunity to make submissions on specific issues of concern."

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The Victorian Employers' Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI) is the most influential body for employers in Victoria, informing and servicing more than 15,000 members, customers and clients around the state.

vecci.org.au

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