National Study Finds WorkChoices Bad for Women

A recently released study has found that the IR Laws introduced by the Howard Government have had a detrimental affect on low paid working women.

121 women affected by the changes and working in low paid employment were interviewed in this national study. The participants included a number of aged care workers as well as child care, retail, transport, clerical and process workers.

Those interviewed in the study reported cuts to penalty rates, greater job insecurity, imposed changes to working hours, being dismissed for no reason, work intensification leading to concerns about quality of care and many other negative workplace experiences.

The report states;

"The overall picture is consistent across the six regions where we undertook interviews, with significant negative outcomes in relation to employment security, the level and predictability of pay and hours, overall earnings and employee voice and say."

The report found that the affect of the changes are felt beyond the work place, having a negative impact on financial independence and health and wellbeing of the women interviewed. The report states that;

"Their choices at work, at home and in the community have been diminished."

To download a summary report click Women & WorkChoices: Summary Report

To download the full report click Women & WorkChoices: Impacts on the Low Pay Sector

The study was undertaken by researchers from across the country with financial contributions from State Governments to produce reports in different states. The NFAW, WEL Australia and YWCA commissioned the integration of findings into a national report.

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© 2003 Health Services Union (HSU)
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Last Modified: Wednesday, 15-Aug-2007 09:56:12 EST