Introduction
Since its formation in 1927, the ACTU has been the peak trade union body in Australia. There is no other national confederation representing unions. For 90 years, the ACTU has played the leading role in advocating in the Fair Work Commission, and its statutory predecessors, for the improvement of employment conditions of employees. It has consulted with governments in the development of almost every legislative measure concerning employment conditions and trade union regulation over that period.
The ACTU consists of affiliated unions and state and regional Trades and Labour Councils. There are currently 43 ACTU affiliates. They have approximately 2 million members who are engaged across a broad spectrum of industries and occupations in the public and private sector.
The ACTU appreciates the opportunity to briefly comment on the National Injury Prevention Strategy (the Draft Strategy).
Recommendations
-
The Draft Strategy needs to reflect the true extent of work-related injury.
-
The Draft Strategy needs to adopt a broader approach to injury and more accurately reflect the Australian Work Health and Safety Strategy 2012-22. The Work Health and Safety Strategy was agreed after considerable consultation with many stakeholders.
-
The ACTU refers the Department of Health to the Work Health and Safety Strategy when addressing Objective 15.
-
The ACTU calls on the Department of Health to embrace and acknowledge the legal requirements for the prevention of work-related injury. These should be reflected in the Draft Strategy.
…
