Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes) Bill 2023 (Senate Education and Employment Committees) 

The St Vincent de Paul Society National Council supports the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes) Bill 2023.

The Society highlights the disproportionate impact of the current employment system on vulnerable groups, including individuals with lower skills, women, young workers, single parents, temporary visa holders, and workers living with disabilities. Legislative changes that improve conditions for vulnerable groups are needed such as addressing insecure employment practices and the gender pay gap.

In supporting this Bill, the Society highlights Catholic Social Teaching which upholds the dignity of workers, promotes secure work to foster economic stability, aims to reduce poverty, and promotes social cohesion.

The Society supports fairer employment definitions and better protections for casual employees and gig workers. Provisions that prevent businesses from restructuring employment to avoid paying agreed-upon rates and wage theft should also be integrated into the Bill.

The St Vincent de Paul Society National Council argues that the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes) Bill 2023 is a crucial step toward better protecting the dignity and rights of all Australian workers.    

Read our submission - pdf file