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While the current government, led by Anthony Albanese, is showcasing its achievements in supporting workers’ rights, wage increases, and protections for temporary workers, Dutton and his Liberal Party are likely to find themselves in a difficult position on this front.
The Industrial Relations Challenge
The biggest challenge for Dutton may come from Labor’s attempts to make industrial relations a central focus of the election campaign. Albanese’s government has taken several important steps in favor of workers, such as supporting wage increases, criminalizing wage theft, and introducing domestic violence leave. Most importantly, they’ve made it easier for workers to negotiate across multiple employers, a move that’s unpopular with business sectors and seen as a potential threat to the Liberal coalition.
Difficulty in Countering
The Liberal campaign might struggle to convince voters of the need to reverse these policies, especially if Labor launches a campaign promoting the idea that the Liberals will roll back these benefits that workers have gained under Albanese. This message could resonate particularly well with low- and middle-income workers in suburban areas, whom Dutton is trying to reach.
Pressure from Business
On the other hand, the coalition is under pressure from business groups to make changes that favor employers. For instance, there are calls to expand the definition of small businesses to reduce the regulatory burden on them. But Dutton will need to strike a balance between meeting the demands of the business sector and not alienating workers whose votes he needs to win.
Caution and Skepticism
Dutton will have to present clear policies on industrial relations, but he must also reassure voters that he doesn’t have a hidden agenda that would harm workers’ conditions. This will be challenging due to lingering skepticism among some voters about the Liberal coalition, particularly given the internal party calls for more aggressive steps than what is politically advisable.
Internal Division in the Union Movement
Although the current government holds the upper hand on this issue, it faces some internal challenges, such as divisions within the union movement, particularly in the construction workers’ union (CFMEU), which is experiencing internal conflict due to the appointment of a new director. This split could result in the party losing millions of dollars in campaign funding, potentially boosting the Greens party’s strength.
Conclusion
Although cost of living will be the central issue in the upcoming election, industrial relations may be the toughest battleground for Dutton. He will have to tread carefully between satisfying business interests and assuring workers that he does not intend to roll back their rights, while Labor will try to turn this issue into a key advantage.
