Spotlight on Job Insecurity and Wages: Far North Queensland

Workers in Far North Queensland are being hit hard by the insecure work crisis, with one in three workers in casual employment according to a new report released by the Queensland Council of Unions and ACTU.

The report, titled Spotlight on Job Insecurity and wages in Far North Queensland also shows that workers in Cairns earn 8% less than the national average. Casual workers are supposed to receive a 25 per cent loading in exchange for no leave entitlements or job security but the report revealed that less than half receive any loading and most still earn less than their permanent colleagues performing the same work.

These statistics paint an unacceptable picture of instability for Queensland workers according to ACTU Secretary Sally McManus.

“Insecure work forces workers into a lifestyle of instability and uncertainty, with many under tremendous financial and emotional strain often unable to plan ahead, balance work and life, or make ends meet,” says McManus.

“Cairns is one of the hardest hit regions of the pandemic, with their food, accommodation and tourism industries fighting to survive as most of the country is unable to travel. It’s critical that workers in the area receive adequate support so that they can spend money locally and help regional recovery.”

“The recovery from the pandemic is an opportunity to create more secure jobs in Cairns and end this crisis. The Morrison Government must step up to the task of regulating the overuse of contract, temporary and casual employment.”

You can download the full report into Job Insecurity and Wages in Far North Queensland below.

Queensland workers deserve secure work they can count on. We all do.

That’s why Australian Unions are campaigning for the Government to restore rights and job security for all workers – before it’s too late.