Unions are calling for greater cost of living relief and increased wages in this week’s federal budget.
According to a statement by the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU), working Australians will be looking towards Treasury’s wage growth figures and will be expecting budget measures that support wage growth as part of the Albanese government’s commitment to addressing the ongoing cost of living crisis.
ACTU President, Michele O’Neil, commended the federal government for their current measures towards addressing wage growth, but indicated there was more that needed to be done.
“The government has made good steps in addressing the cost-of-living, with workers seeing improvements in bargaining rights, support for increases in the minimum wage, and a pay rise for aged care workers. Particularly important is the cost-of-living tax bonus from July 1st for workers who need it the most, as well as last year’s energy bill relief, which took pressure off household budgets,” Ms O’Neil said.
O’Neil blamed the previous Liberal-National Coalition government for historically low wage growth but indicated she hoped this would turn around under the Albanese government’s industrial relations reforms.
“Wage growth has finally turned around as a result of decisions made by the Albanese Government, and we expect the 2024 Budget to continue to deliver on the economic conditions that support higher wages.”