May 2, 2011: Biggest-ever worker survey to give Australian workers a voice about their future
Australian workers have the chance to have their voices heard through the ACTU’s Working Australia Census - announced yesterday and launched today, May 2.
ACTU President Ged Kearney said the survey gives all Australian workers the opportunity to have their say on issues such as work/life balance, cost of living pressures and the growth in casual and insecure work.
“The 21st century has brought new challenges and pressures to the workplace and new causes for unions to fight for,” Ms Kearney said. “We need to be sure that we are listening to workers and accurately reflecting their views on the modern workplace. Unions have been the voice of ordinary Australians for over a century and we want to make sure that tradition continues. The information we get from this Census will shape our campaigns for the future and help us to influence Governments and employers on behalf of workers.”
Ms Kearney said it was fitting to announce the census on May Day, traditionally a celebration of workers’ rights.
“This research will enable us to build on the achievements of workers for fought for the 8-hour day, a living wage, equal pay and better safety at work,” Ms Kearney said. “This census will make sure the voice of workers is heard loud and clear in public debate. It will allow us to campaign for better wages and conditions, fairer workplaces and the social benefits that workers want. We will keep up the fight for a better life for workers and their families.”
The census is open to all Australians, whether or not they belong to a union. Have your say, go to the
Working Australia website. Anyone participating in the survey could win $1,000!