Workers who keep South Australia’s buildings clean and communities safe could soon have access to portable long service leave under reforms announced today by the Peter Malinauskas Labor Government.
The proposal would expand South Australia’s portable long service leave scheme to include contract cleaning and security workers, allowing employees to carry their long service leave entitlements with them as they move between employers in the same industry.
Long service leave traditionally requires workers to remain with a single employer for ten years before qualifying. In industries with short contracts and high turnover, many workers never become eligible despite spending decades working in the sector.
Portable long service leave allows workers to accrue service across multiple employers, ensuring their contribution to an industry is recognised even when they move between contracts or worksites.
Today’s announcement forms part of a broader workplace reform agenda focused on improving job security and fairness for workers.
Please attribute quotes to Demi Pnevmatikos, South Australian State Secretary of United Workers Union
Portable Long Service Leave
“Workers who keep our workplaces clean and our communities safe should not miss out on long service leave simply because their industry relies on short-term contracts.
“Premier Peter Malinauskas is to be commended for recognising the needs of low-paid workers, which will improve the lives of thousands of South Australians.
“These workers provide essential services every day. Expanding portable long service leave is about fairness and recognising the contribution they make to our communities.”
Same Job, Same Pay
“Workers doing the same job should be paid the same.
“Our union secured same job, same pay protections in public sector agreements more than a decade ago, and we welcome the government expanding this principle across the public sector and local government.
“We look forward to working with the government through consultation to ensure same job, same pay applies to all hours worked, including penalty rates and superannuation.”
Workers Compensation Coverage for Gig Workers
“Gig work is often insecure and exploitative, so extending workplace protections like workers compensation is an important step toward improving fairness and safety for these workers.
“It is important the government is recognising that gig workers deserve access to workers compensation when something goes wrong.”
Delegates’ Rights
“Workplace delegates play a vital role in supporting workers and improving standards in workplaces.
“Our union has long secured strong delegate rights through enterprise agreements, and we welcome the government recognising the important role delegates play in representing workers.”
Limits on Fixed-Term Contracts
“Limiting the overuse of fixed-term contracts is a positive step toward improving job security for workers.
“While fixed-term contracts are not widespread across our membership, it is important to have safeguards in place to prevent insecure employment arrangements becoming the norm.”
ENDS
Media Contact: 1300 898 633, [email protected]