United Voice News
Members win clampdown on dodgy security contractors
Security members have spoken up and won a clampdown on dodgy contractors around Australia.
The Federal Government’s workplace watchdog, the Fair Work Ombudsman, is investigating contractors that do not pay guards properly.
Victorian ISS delegate Warren Hill (pictured, right) said the industry audit was desperately needed.
"It’s long overdue. It’s high time we clean up this industry. I’m very pleased that the Government is finally doing what should have been done years ago."
A recent LHMU survey found 77% of security members had been paid below the Award, 88% had worked without proper breaks, 80% had done overtime on normal pay and 64% had worked for a company that did not follow health and safety laws.
These dodgy contractors get a competitive edge by ripping guards off, and undercutting companies with union collective agreements like ISS, MSS, Wilson and G4S.
"The dodgy companies are bringing our industry down through underpayment, overwork, and maltreatment of guards. They do not respect guards," Warren said.
The Fair Work Australia audit will focus on hourly rates, penalty rates, allowances and meal breaks.
