Published: 4 Oct 2018
CFMEU Mining and Energy has placed ads in major regional newspapers in NSW and Queensland coalfields today, urging mine operators to end the ‘permanent casual’ rort and employ workers in permanent jobs.
The open letter to mine operators says:
IT’S TIME FOR PERMANENT JOBS
Casual labour hire has grown out of control. In recent years, mine operators have deliberately reduced the number of permanent jobs in Illawarra coal mines in favour of labour hire.
These ‘casual’ workers are required to make a full time, permanent commitment, with rosters up to 12 months in advance. But they get less pay than permanents, no paid leave and no job security – often for years on end.
We have long maintained the ‘permanent casual’ work model in coal mining is a rort. Now the courts have agreed.
The decision in the Workpac v Skene case brought by the CFMEU found that full-time mineworkers with advance rosters are not casual under the law, even if their employer calls them casual.
This is a big win for mineworkers and our local communities, who deserve secure jobs, training and career development opportunities.
Mining companies are on notice that we will vigorously pursue the entitlements affected workers have missed out on.
But they shouldn’t wait for legal claims. Mining companies can start doing the right thing straight away by employing Illawarra mineworkers in the permanent jobs they want and deserve.
For more information on claiming backpay or joining the Union, contact your District Office