Cassy O’Connor MP | Greens Leader
We were proud to see our job guarantee motion pass Parliament this evening.
We look forward to the Gutwein Government’s next steps on the investigation in to how a Jobs Guarantee program could be adopted in lutruwita/Tasmania – to strengthen the State’s COVID-19 recovery and support economic transition to tackle the climate emergency.
The economic shockwaves from COVID-19 will continue for years and it is critical government does everything within its power to ensure everyone possible has a job.
Following the Second World War, the Australian Government committed to a policy of full employment. In times of crisis, that’s what responsible governments do.
Unemployment and underemployment were already significant, ongoing issues prior to the pandemic. The majority of unemployed and underemployed people are in hard circumstances through no fault of their own.
Reliable and liveable income is essential to meet basic needs like food, housing, healthcare, transport, bills, and education. Work opportunities benefit individuals, society and the economy as a whole.
We know dealing with the colliding challenges of the climate emergency, long-term disadvantage and the impact of coronavirus will require ambitious Government action.
This is the work, as a result of tonight’s vote, that will begin.