Senator Thorpe supports the Albanese Government’s efforts today to strengthen workers’ rights and secure better outcomes for workers. She has been working constructively with Minister Burke over the past few months and is happy to see these important reforms pass before the end of the year.

Quotes attributable to Senator Lidia Thorpe, Gunnai Gunditjmara and Djab Wurrung woman and Independent Victorian Senator representing the Blak Sovereign Movement:

‘This is an important bill to pass and I am glad that we can progress some of the very important parts of the Closing Loopholes legislation this year as we cannot waste time in protecting workers’ lives.’

‘I have been working constructively with Minister Burke on this piece of legislation over several months and am pleased to support its passing today.’

‘My thoughts are with all those who have lost loved ones due to unsafe workplaces and the lack of care by businesses out to make a quick buck. I hope this bill can bring them some peace in knowing that hopefully others will not have to go through the same hell as they did.

‘I am fully supportive of this bill as it provides for safer workplaces, strengthens the rights of workers and delegates rights and tackles workplace discrimination.

‘We need strong unions to uphold workers rights and counter the huge influence of big business on our governments and people’s lives. 

‘Strengthening workers’ rights and creating workplaces that are safe and free from discrimination is in the best interest of everyone, even employers.’