Australian
unions welcome the vision for Australia’s economic future outlined by Prime
Minister, Kevin Rudd, at the National Press Club today.
ACTU
Secretary, Dave Oliver, said the Prime Minister’s emphasis on investment in
skills and innovation was a stark contrast to the slash and burn,
let-the-market-rip policies of Tony Abbott and the Coalition.
Mr Oliver
also welcomed Mr Rudd’s call for government to work with both unions and
business to increase genuine productivity.
“Australians
know that our continued prosperity rests on good jobs, smart investment and
sharing the benefits of growth. Governments should be encouraging cooperation
and a focus on the high-road of economic improvement where creating and
supporting good, secure jobs is done by investing in skills and innovation and
valuing our people.
“The low road
where government allows businesses to drive down wages and rights at work is
the alternative approach, and Prime Minister Rudd is correct to point out that
this has failed in the countries which have adopted austerity since the global
financial crisis. It is not in Australia’s interest to join in a race to the
bottom.
“Supporting
key industries and investing properly in infrastructure and education are the
keys to delivering long-term productivity growth, and ensuring Australian can
take advantage of the economic opportunities provided by growth in Asia.
“We welcome
Prime Minister Rudd’s announcement today the Federal Government will pursue a
broad and inclusive economic agenda.
“We look
forward to working with government and business to develop policies to improve
productivity, including improving management capability and employee
engagement.”
