Automotive Industry Support for Workplace Reforms

10th October, 2005

The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries has offered its support for the WorkChoices package announced by the Federal Government yesterday.

"We are pleased to see the additional level of detail that is now available about the proposed reforms" said FCAI Chief Executive, Peter Sturrock.

Mr Sturrock said, "In particular, there are a number of practical measures included in the package that should help to minimise the damaging effects of industrial action".

Mr Sturrock said, "Under current arrangements some elements of the automotive industry supply-chain are particularly vulnerable to disruption in the event of industrial action.  Given the nature of the industry, a disruption to supply at one point can quickly flow through to other firms in the manufacturing process".  

"Such disruptions can have a dire effect on vehicle manufacturers and their employees.  In the worst cases, the industry has lost valuable production and employees have been stood down.  Clearly, that is a situation we all want to avoid and we hope that these changes will assist in that objective", he said.

Mr Sturrock concluded by saying, "The industry welcomes this announcement and will work cooperatively with the Government and with employees to ensure that the full benefits of these reforms are realised".

Contact:
Peter Sturrock
Chief Executive
FCAI
Phone:  02 6229 8212
Mobile:  0412 377 501.