UnionsACT supports the proposed Bill to amend the Government Procurement Act and create the Secure Local Jobs Code.
We have a long-held view that the ACT Government procurement policy must be used to advance a progressive, pro-worker social and economic agenda, entrench good conditions and high wages, and promote local industry capabilities, skills, secure jobs and sustainable economic growth.
UnionsACT rejects any suggestion that obligating businesses to meet legislated workplace laws or safety laws will unduly increase procurement costs to the government. Procurement in the ACT already requires businesses to comply with Federal and ACT laws. Were costs to increase, it would be evidence that that prior to the enactment of the Bill contractors were not obeying laws with respect to workplace rights or safety.
