Tony Abbott Refuses to Support Equal Pay for Women

Tony Abbott’s dedication to equality for women is in question following his refusal to commit a future Liberal government to support for the equal pay test case currently before Fair Work Australia.

The commitment, already signed by Prime Minister Julia Gillard, would ensure bipartisan support for the case involving community sector workers, which aims to put a dent in the current 18% disparity between women and men's wages.

Australian Services Union said the lack of support flies in the face of Mr Abbott's claims to be a proponent of women.

"The Liberal Party say they are all for 'real action' and yet they have chosen to ignore one of the key actions that would actually make a real difference for women."

The case is arguing for increased wages for the community sector, which is largely female-dominated, who are being paid substantially less than those working in equivalent industries.

The ASU says that it is not just Mr Abbott who is refusing to acknowledge the case and support its goals.

We have been holding forums in a number of electorates in the lead up to the election to give candidates a chance to meet the community workers that this case will directly affect. Not one Liberal candidate has taken the time to even turn up and hear what they have to say.

By refusing to turn up the Liberal party has shown its true colours in regards to its attitude towards women.

So in the lead up to the election this Saturday we want to send a message to the Australian people that a vote for the Liberal party is a vote against equal pay for women.

The forums have called on candidates to take an extra step up in support for the case, by agreeing to fund any wage increases Fair Work Australia recommends at its conclusion.

So far we have had a great response from Labor and Greens candidates. This support is crucial, as the outcome of the case will have no effect on the sector whatsoever unless our government commits to the extra funding needed to make them a reality.

The dominance of women in the community sector and the low pay they receive for what has been regarded as 'women's' work means that increasing their wages would go a long way to closing the pay gap between men and women.

For further information:
Katrine Hildyard 0418 847 865