Warning over foreign sale of SA Power Networks

The federal government is being urged to reject a foreign private equity firm’s joint takeover bid for minority ownership of SA Power Networks, with claims the investment company’s “chequered history” of asset-stripping poses a risk to South Australian electricity consumers.

Sharkie poll shock as truncated workplace reforms pass senate

UPDATED 5PM | Unions have South Australia’s Centre Alliance in their sights, with an ACTU poll suggesting falling support for federal Rebekha Sharkie in her Adelaide Hills seat of Mayo – as she today took aim at her senate colleague over his support for the Government’s contentious workplace reforms.

ACTU secretary Sally McManus has warned employers against trying to cut wages during pandemic recovery. Photo: AAP/Joel Carrett

Workers won't cop pandemic pay cuts: ACTU

Workers won’t stand for permanent pay cuts as the Australian economy recovers from the coronavirus, the nation’s top union boss says.

Can Scott Morrison achieve industrial relations disarmament?

The Prime Minister has brokered detente between government, employers and unions to try to deliver meaningful workplace reform and help generate post-pandemic employment. Whether a shell-shocked nation is ready remains to be seen, argues Michelle Grattan.

Time to "put down weapons" for IR reform: PM

Unions, employers and government will work together on industrial relations reforms to help kickstart the economy in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

Bob Hawke: a giant of political and industrial history

Bob Hawke was not only a towering figure in Australia’s industrial relations and political landscape, but a man with flaws and a rare ability to connect with the Australian public, says Frank Bongiorno.