Debate resumed, on motion by Mr Gibbons:

That the House:

(1)

notes the need for Australian businesses to be globally competitive in order to sustain economic prosperity after the current resources boom;

(2)

notes the alarming decline in Australia’s productivity and export performance over the last five years;

(3)

notes research findings that less than one in five Australian businesses is currently “world class”;

(4)

notes the Government’s election commitments and subsequent policy announcements about measures to improve national productivity including public investment in education, skills training and national infrastructure;

(5)

notes research findings that people management practices are the predominant factor affecting company productivity and performance;

(6)

notes research findings that indicate Australian managers are paying insufficient attention to workplace practices and employee satisfaction; and

(7)

supports the establishment of a National Commission for Workplace Innovation and Excellence that will, in conjunction with the business community, trade union movement, professional associations and education providers:

(a)

identify workplace factors that positively impact on workplace innovation, excellence and productivity including human resource management practices and organisational culture;

(b)

develop policies that promote workplace innovation, excellence and productivity including best practice models, codes of practice, awareness programs, business exchanges and awards; and

(c)

support research, management education and training in conjunction with higher education providers and professional associations. (Notice given 12 March 2008. Time allowed—30 minutes.)

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