18 June 2020
A new poll has revealed that for the first time since the series began in 2012, half of all Australians believe Australian workers would be better off with stronger unions.
A further 3 out of 4 Australians believe unions provide essential services to ensure members are paid properly, have a safe working environment and provide a strong collective voice.
The report summarises the results of a fortnightly omnibus conducted by Essential Research with data provided by Qualtrics. The survey was conducted online from June 11 to 14, 2020, and is based on 1,087 respondents.
The ANMF (SA Branch) and the ACTU have welcomed the results, saying they are a reflection of the crucial role unions have played during the pandemic, and the important role unions play in giving workers a voice.
“The ANMF (SA Branch) negotiated hard with the State Government to win an in-principle Enterprise Bargaining Agreement to retain existing working conditions for our members - along with wage increases – to ensure heightened security during these very unsure times,’’ said ANMF (SA Branch) CEO/Secretary Adj. Associate Professor Elizabeth Dabars AM.
“We raised concerns with the Government about the impact of COVID-19 on the health care community and associated issues such as PPE, preparedness, member concerns and lack of Government support for health care workers adversely affected by the elective surgeries ban.
“We will continue to fight for the rights of our dedicated nurses, midwives and personal care workers who give and risk so much in their care for our community,’’ Ms Dabars said.
ACTU Secretary Sally McManus said: “This research tells us that Australians know who has their back - not just in the workplace but also during a national economic and health crisis.
“Australian unions fought for and won the JobKeeper wage subsidy and the increase to the JobSeeker payment,’’ she said.
“Unionised workers have steered the country through this pandemic and will continue to play a leading role in the economic rebuild.’