New rules governing major procurement contracts for the ACT Public Service have come into force with the Government’s Secure Local Jobs Code applying from 15 January.
Minister for Government Services and Procurement, Rachel Stephen-Smith welcomed the new arrangements saying they would give better protection to Canberra’s workers.
“The Secure Local Jobs Code aims to ensure the Government only awards contracts to businesses that meet the highest ethical and labour standards,” Ms Stephen-Smith said.
“Businesses tendering for construction, cleaning, security or traffic management work will be required to hold a Secure Local Jobs Certificate and meet specific workplace standards on pay and employment conditions; insurance, tax and superannuation; health and safety including training and inductions; (and) collective bargaining, freedom of association and representation rights.
“The Code creates a transparent, well-governed process that ensures employers who do the right thing by their workers can compete for government work on a level playing field”.
She said the commencement of the Code ensures that Public Service purchasing power is used to reward businesses who did the right thing by treating employees fairly.
“The Canberra community expects local workers to be treated fairly and have their rights at work respected by all employers.”
Ms Stephen-Smith said that to receive a Secure Local Jobs Code Certificate, businesses need to apply through the Secure Local Jobs Code Registrar.
“Seventy-seven businesses have already applied for a Secure Local Jobs Code Certificate,” she said.
“Of those, 47 have already been granted a Certificate.”
Information about the new arrangements can be accessed at this PS News link.
