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FAMILY FIRST WINS INQUIRY INTO AUSTRALIA POST’S OH&S PROGRAM

Press Releases October 29 2009

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Family First and the Communications, Electrical and Plumbing Union (CEPU) have secured a Senate inquiry into allegations Australia Post has been forcing its injured staff back to work well before they have recovered from workplace injuries.

The inquiry comes after Australia Post gave evidence at a senate estimates hearing in Canberra last week.

“There are serious allegations staff have been forced back to work simply to sit in a room to watch television so managers can get their bonus for having lower lost injury time figures,” Senator Fielding said.

“This is outrageous and puts the health of workers at risk because of some greedy managers.

“No wonder Australia Post won an award last month for its rehabilitation of injured workers if it’s fudging the numbers.

“There’s an obvious conflict of interest between InjuryNET, who which looks after the doctors which that Australia Post sends its workers too, and Australia Post itself.

“Dr David Milecki, who is a consultant to Australia Post’s return-to-work program, also runs InjuryNET.

“Australia Post even admitted that this contract did not go through an independent process, let alone a tender process.

“A Senate inquiry will make sure Australia Post employees are being looked after and that they’re aren’t being taken advantage of by dodgy managers who are more interested in their bonuses.”

CEPU National President Ed Husic called this a “tremendous move, which will help put a massive spotlight on unsafe work practices at Australia Post”.

The inquiry has the support Rudd Government and the Coalition and will be referred to Senate Standing Committee on Environment, Communications and the Arts.