CEPU industrial action

Chris Rodwell 

CCIWA CEO

CCIWA is disappointed that further industrial action will be mounted by the Communications, Electrical and Plumbers Union from today, with impacts across the electricity network.

The supply of electricity is fundamental to WA’s businesses and economy. Strikes impose a greater risk of power grid failure, representing increased uncertainty for business. They are also a risk to community safety, due to interruptions and decreased maintenance work and delays in getting power restored.

Industrial action, albeit an acknowledged right, should be a measure of last resort, especially when it threatens to have widespread impacts for communities and the economy.

The Government’s discipline on public sector wages has been an important factor in better managing WA’s finances. The CEPU’s approach to bargaining seeks to undermine this effort and could open the door to further disruption. By contrast, WA’s peak union body, UnionsWA, recently agreed a 1% pay increase with its own staff.

We urge the union to return to the negotiating table and work with Western Power towards an agreeable outcome.

Share This Post

You may also be interested in

CCIWA alarmed at reported efforts to block North West Shelf project
CCIWA alarmed at reported efforts to block North West Shelf project
Comments attributable to CCIWA Chief Economist Aaron Morey: CCIWA is alarmed at reports today of efforts to block the extension of the North West Shelf...
Read more »
Peak employer groups call for payroll tax reform in WA
Peak employer groups call for payroll tax reform in WA
Western Australia’s peak business and industry groups have joined forces to call on the Cook Government to deliver payroll tax relief in the upcoming budget....
Read more »
Regional businesses battered by rising costs, skills shortages
Regional businesses battered by rising costs, skills shortages
Businesses in regional WA are being battered by rising costs, with more than half reporting a drop in profit margins, according to CCIWA’s Regional Pulse...
Read more »