Qld Productivity Commission slammed by opposition as way to ‘dissect’ pay and working conditions
A new government productivity agency tasked with improving lives will instead be used as a trojan horse to “dissect” the pay and conditions of workers, with powers to inquire into any aspect of Queensland life, opposition MPs say.
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A new government agency tasked with improving the lives of Queenslanders will be instead used as a trojan horse to “dissect” the pay and conditions of workers, opposition MPs say.
The state government’s flagship Productivity Commission – hailed during the election as the solution to boosting the economic output on building sites and saving money – will be debated and likely passed when parliament resumes on February 18.
It was a key election pledge by Treasurer David Janetzki and would focus on productivity and economic growth and improving living standards in Queenslanders.
A Productivity Commissioner will be appointed by the government and the agency’s first task will be to put construction industry regulation under the microscope.
Mr Janetzki said it would reverse low productivity he said led to lower economic growth, lower wages, higher unemployment and inflation.
A committee analysing the Bill has raised concerns of the power handed to Mr Janetzki over the commission.
A statement co-signed by opposition MPs argues it will be used to “dissect” the pay and working conditions of Queenslanders in the building and construction industry.
“This commission would be accountable to no one except the LNP Treasurer of Queensland, who would assume new powers through the Productivity Commission to inquire into any aspect of Queensland life,” it found.
“The commission would move beyond giving advice to being an active participant in setting and implementing the LNP government’s agenda.
“It will be a hammer in the hands of the Treasurer, controlled by the Treasurer, doing as the Treasurer commands.”
Originally published as Qld Productivity Commission slammed by opposition as way to ‘dissect’ pay and working conditions
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