The Rugby League Players Association addressed the ACTU for the first time in their fight for a fair deal in collective bargaining with the NRL.
The RLPA briefed the ACTU Executive on their dispute and representatives of every union in the country voted unanimously to support them.
Quote attributable to Rugby League Players Association CEO Clint Newton:
“We are honoured and proud to be presenting to the ACTU Executive. This is a first for the RLPA and, on behalf of all our members, we are incredibly grateful for the opportunity and the support the unions have provided us to date.”
“At the moment, our Association is confronted with a governing body that fails to recognise the fundamental rights our members deserve in return for their essential labour. Players are currently undertaking unprecedented action in rugby league because of the failure of the NRL to negotiate with respect and fairness.”
“The RLPA recognises how important the union movement has been for workers in this country, and still are today. The strong foundations they have firmly entrenched across countless industries have paved the way for sport unions and associations.”
Quotes attributable to ACTU Secretary Sally McManus:
“The players are the game. They deserve a fair agreement which provides them with certainty, security and a fair say over the direction of their work.
“The ACTU Executive call on the NRL to immediately cease their Union-busting tactics. The NRL need an independent umpire or should support the engagement of an industrial mediator or the Fair Work Commission, to assist in resolving the dispute.
“The union movement stands ready to assist with their full support and unite with the players and their union, the RLPA.”
