Tuesday, 21 February 2023

 Gary MAAS (Narre Warren South) (19:06): (44) The matter I wish to raise is for the attention of the Minister for Employment and concerns the sick pay guarantee. The action I seek is that the minister provide information on how the Andrews Labor government’s sick pay guarantee is helping workers and families in my electorate of Narre Warren South.

It has been almost a year since the sick pay guarantee pilot program began, and I know from speaking to my constituents that this program has made life easier for many casual and contract workers. So many rely upon employment through insecure work, and it is important that their protections and support are not left behind simply because some employers see workers’ classifications as a means to increase profit while reducing their responsibilities to employees should they fall ill. Many migrants, young workers, students and those struggling to get by in my electorate rely on casual and contract work to support themselves and their families. While the previous federal government removed workers rights and entitlements, this state Labor government has been increasing support for workers in industries such as aged care, supermarkets and retail, security, warehousing, cleaning and hospitality. This program is necessary to make sure unwell workers concentrate on getting better rather than attending work at reduced capacity or even risking spreading their illness to fellow employees, customers and clients alike. Illness, as we know from recent experience, has the potential to be personally devastating but also financially devastating. I would appreciate if the minister could provide any further information on how the sick pay guarantee is supporting workers in my electorate, and I look forward to sharing the minister’s response with my community.