VCOSS Urges State Consultation on Equal Pay Pledge

Governments around the country now need to consult with and work alongside the community sector in partnership through the implementation process of the Gillard Government’s equal pay pledge, according to the Victorian Council of Social Service, VCOSS.

VCOSS says the Federal Government’s announcement of support of the ASU’s Equal Pay case has been hailed as an historic day for Victorian community sector workers who will finally be paid fairly for the important work they do.

‘Today’s announcement validates what unions, the community sector and workers have long been saying about the undervaluation of our work,’ said Cath Smith, CEO of the Victorian Council of Social Service.

‘We applaud Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s announcement today, as well as the Federal commitment to making a joint submission with the ASU to Fair Work Australia.

“This is excellent news for a sector whose crucial work has long been under-recognised and undervalued, primarily because of the high rate of feminisation of this particular workforce,’ said Smith.’

‘Fair Work Australia has already recognised that gender plays a critical role in low wages for community sector workers. FWA will make the final decision in the case in the coming months.

‘The Federal Government has agreed to support the ASU’s claim and will pay the full supplement of their share, including their funding to the State and Territory Governments for specific programs.

‘We look forward to the Federal Government announcing details of an Industry Support Package to assist the smooth implementation of the outcomes across the sector.

‘We look forward to working with both the State and Federal Governments on the implementation of the final decision to ensure the continuing viability of all community sector organisations.’