United Voice News
Mid Year Review offers no relief for low paid disability workers
Low paid disability workers in the not-for-profit sector have been ignored in Colin Barnett’s Mid Year Review, despite the Treasurer/Premier boasting about a billion dollar surplus for 2011-12.
The Mid Year Review should have outlined the Barnett government’s commitment to fund the not-for-profit sector properly and that this extra money be ring-fenced for better wages so that the industry can retain better trained and more experienced staff. There was no mention of either in the review.
The sector and therefore its employees will now have to wait until next year’s budget for the extra funding and details of how it should be spent.
Kelly Shay, assistant secretary of the LHMU said: “This is a disgrace. This state government expects the not-for-profit sector and its workforce to pick up its responsibilities, so it should be funded adequately and the funds safeguarded for workers.
“The Mid Year Review would have been an ideal opportunity for the Barnett government to fulfill its commitment to fixing the funding difficulties these organisations face.
“And who ultimately will be the biggest losers? The workforce and the people they care for.
“These workers do incredibly difficult and challenging work with people with disabilities and yet most of them are paid little over minimum wage. Most could get more working in Bunnings.
“Government employees doing the same work are getting paid up to a third (33%) more than these NGO employees.
“The low pay is forcing workers with the experience, who provide the best care to clients, out of the industry. I would like to see Mr. Barnett try to survive on as little as $17 dollars an hour, let alone support a family.
“The simple fact is, people cannot support a family on the current wages, the sector is chronically understaffed and he expects them to be picking up more responsibility.
“It’s not good enough to say to these workers ‘go get a job in Macdonalds then’. These people are passionate about their work and understand its importance. They are highly-skilled professionals and they should be paid more appropriately. Only then can the very best be attracted to work in the industry and retained.
“That’s the very least we can do for the clients they work with so closely.”
