Murray Watt (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) Share this | Hansard source

I can, Senator Grogan, because we want to make more agreements that benefit both employers and workers. I understand that the concept of workers and businesses coming to agreements is something that the opposition just cannot get its head across, but actually it can be done. And, importantly, we want to stop the race to the bottom by those who undercut businesses who are genuinely trying to do the right thing by their workers.

Let me give you one great example of businesses who are embracing this new era of workplace relations that will benefit workers and employers. As reported this morning in the Financial Review, the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning manufacturing and installation association has wasted no time starting their multi-employer bargaining. We hear the laughter and the scoffs from those on the other side that there might be employers who actually want to come to agreements. This group met the AMWU on Monday to discuss ways to use the new laws to deliver higher pay and standards for staff. This is what the Albanese Labor government wants to see more of—employers, unions and workers coming together to deliver a win-win. (Time expired)