Rights on Site

In 2006 the Howard Government introduced double standards for workers in the construction industry following the introduction of the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC). The ABCC were given unprecedented powers to interrogate and investigate alleged breaches of the law on constructions sites across Australia.

Despite the Howard government being thrown out of office in November 2007 these laws still remain which means construction workers can be fined up to $22,000 for what are otherwise basic rights in other sectors such as attending a union meeting onsite over safety concerns.

Its time that Australia once again had one law for all workers.

The time has come for Julia Gillard to abolish the ABCC and the draconian laws that go with it rather than waiting until 2010 when they plan to abolish the commission anyway.

To get involved with the rights on site campaign or to find out more information visit the dedicated rights on site website at: www.rightsonsite.org.au

See what ETU member Brett Walker had to say about the ABCC in a short video which has been produced as a part of the ongoing campaign.