Confusion Reigns on IR Hotline
By Michael Want
USU Executive President
Jun 25, 2007
Despite widespread confusion over the Federal Government’s latest IR
changes that were recently introduced without supporting legislation,
call-takers at the official government IR hotline were issued a
directive to never say ‘I don’t know’ when callers are unhappy with the
lack of information about the new ‘Fairness' Test.
A previously confidential script for call-takers at the Government’s new ‘Workplace Infoline’ provided instructions for when callers are dissatisfied with the lack of available information, stating:
‘At no time is an Advisor to use the phrase “I don’t know” when answering a caller’s query. Rather, Advisors should say that “this is the information that is currently available; we can offer you a call back when further information becomes available.”’
In another sign that the Federal Government’s WorkChoices IR laws are so reviled by the Australian public, the call centre instructions also directs call-takers to avoid mentioning the legislation:
‘Reference to the legislation should be avoided if possible... In ALL instances a client should be referred to the workplace website, not to the WorkChoices website.’
The Government’s new ‘Fairness Test’ is a farce and will not protect people’s penalty rates, shift allowances, overtime pay, public holiday pay, annual leave loading and other award entitlements.
Contact:
USU Information Centre
1300 136 604
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