NSW Labor has strongly supported a series of announcements made by the NSW Labor Government at the party’s state conference today which will strengthen the rights of migrant workers and renters and restore training activities for the state’s local governments.
The NSW Labor Government will invest $6.5 million over four years to set up a Migrant Worker Centre to provide advice, education and training, a key step called for by unions to prevent exploitation of migrant workers in NSW.
The government also committed to investing $252.2 million to create 1,300 new apprentices and trainees in local government and banned no-fault evictions of leaseholders.
“After a decade of utter neglect under the Liberal government, NSW Labor is making up for lost time,” NSW Labor secretary Mark Morey said. “For too long, migrant workers have suffered at the hands of exploitative employers, suffered horrible abuse and been paid meager wages.”
“The establishment of these new centres will help prevent fraud and provide a bridgehead to enable migrants to exercise their rights.”
Mr Morley said the revival of council apprenticeships was an important step forward: “Councils are the heart of our communities and this $200 million investment will breathe new life into the state’s training work, creating 1,300 apprenticeships and traineeships for electricians, plumbers, planners, landscapers and more, helping to build strong careers whilst addressing the skills shortage.”
Mr Morley welcomed the no-fault eviction ban: “This is a huge win for renters across NSW, it will bring much-needed safety and security to thousands of families and individuals living in rented accommodation.”
“These announcements demonstrate that NSW Labor is listening to the concerns of workers and renters, and we look forward to working with the government to deliver these important initiatives.”
Contact: Nick Lucchinelli 0422229032
