Low paid not 2nd class

Date: 17 March 2010

LHMU, one of Australia's biggest unions, says the ACTU $27 per week minimum wage claim is an absolute necessity for award-dependent workers.

Louise Tarrant, LHMU National Secretary says:

"The coming Fair Work Australia annual wages review is vital for Australia's low-paid workers. Last year's failure to increase the minimum wage means the 100,000 workers affected by the decision have not had an increase since October 2008. That's a long time.

"The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry's opposition to the $27 increase is disappointing and unreasonable. ACCI members were no doubt delighted with the savings when last year's budgeted-for wage increase didn't eventuate.

"Wages have been on hold but the cost of living has not.

"Now it's catch-up time.

"Our members have no intention of becoming global financial crisis sacrificial lambs for the sake of employers' profits.

"After 18 months without an increase $27 per week is a reasonable and modest claim but it is an important step in the right direction," says Louise Tarrant.

LHMU members LHMU members work in a wide range of occupations including hospitality, cleaning, security, health, aged care, children's services and manufacturing. Many of these occupations are undervalued and low paid and many are award-dependent. More than 60% of LHMU members are women.

For further information

Contact:	Louise Tarrant, National Secretary
Union:	LHMU
WWW:	http://www.lhmu.org.au/

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