Penalty rates under ‘attack’: Union and business groups clash

Hundreds of hospitality workers are expected to rally in Melbourne’s CBD today to protest against what they call an attack on weekend penalty rates.

Employees are also having their say as the Fair Work Commission reviews workplace reform and penalty rates today.

The rally will begin at 12pm.

3AW Mornings host Tony Jones spoke to the union and a prominent business group about the review.

WHAT THE UNION SAYS

‘Hospitality workers are making about half the average Australian wage,’ United Voice secretary Jess Walsh said.

‘And that’s when they are working weeknights and Saturday and Sunday.’

WHAT BUSINESS GROUPS SAY

Australian Industry Group CEO Innes Willox said there were concerns penalty rates because it was a ‘cost to employment’.

‘Sundays are not hugely different to any other day, there still should be a reward for working weekends, employers recognise that.’