[Greens-Media] SEN KERRY NETTLE: Sydney University staff should reject AWAs

[Phillips, Max (Sen K. Nettle)]

Sydney University staff should reject AWAs
 
16.08.06
 
Education spokesperson for the Australian Greens, Senator Kerry Nettle
today called on staff at the University of Sydney to shun the federal
government's ideological agenda and reject AWAs that the university has
been required to offer by the Howard government.
 
"This is another example of the government putting the quality of
education second to their ideological attack on workers rights and
collective agreements," said Senator Nettle.
 
"The financial benefit of these AWAs is negligible and they will leave
staff more vulnerable in relation to academic freedom, disciplinary
action and termination arrangements.
 
"This attack on working conditions is an attack on the quality of
education as it affects staff morale and retention.
 
"The Higher Education Workplace Relations Requirements (HEWRRs )  are
the stick wielded by the government to force universities to offer AWAs.
 
"The Greens oppose the attack on working conditions under HEWRRs and
Work Choices and hope staff will reject AWAs and remain protected by
collective agreements as is their right.
 
 
Contact: Chris Dubrow 0416 385 803 or (02) 6277 3501