"ordinary australians"

The Federal Government has trumpeted loudly -- in its multi-million dollar television, radio and newspaper PR campaign – how the new, radical, industrial relations laws will be good for “ordinary Australians”. The ACTU and the Federal Opposition have predictably and implacably opposed them.

I had an e-mail overnight from an “ordinary” Australian. And she makes some pertinent, personal points. And those points may ring a bell with a lot of other employees She wrote:

“I am female.

I am over 50.

I am a casual employee

I work to a roster 4 days per week… have done for over 6 years.

I work a 70 hour fortnight…or more.

I work for an employer with less than 10 employees

I have no Union representation

I have no voice if I wish to object to work conditions.

I have no leg to stand on if my employer wants me 'out'.

I have no financial support if I lose my job...being married.

Unlike a Politician....

I have minimal Superannuation

I have no free flights

I have no accommodation allowances

I have no meal allowances

I have no free use of car and/or driver

I may get a small pension when I'm 65

I cannot afford a mobile phone

I cannot afford an overseas junket

I cannot afford Health Insurance

I AM an 'ordinary' Australian who has to watch my tax dollars prop up a bunch of Politicians (casual employees of the people) and their allowances.

Oh how I await the day a politician gives up some of their perks to make it easier on the 'ordinary' Australians.”

She makes some good points. Methinks Prime Minister Howard and Treasurer Costello and their team have a long way to go to convince “ordinary” Australians  how good this soon-to-be passed legislation is.

Tuesday, October 18, 2005

©Copyright Derryn Hinch 2005