Dissenting Report by Senator Nick Xenophon
1.1
I would like to take this opportunity to indicate my support for the
intent of the Fair Trade (Workers’ Right) Bill 2013. I believe it is
vitally important that Australia consider minimum workplace standards in trade
negotiations, both from a human rights and industry standpoint.
1.2
Australia has long been a world leader in terms of workplace rights. The
horror and public outcry that followed the collapse of a factory building in
Bangladesh last year, where 1,138 people died and over 2,000 were injured, has
demonstrated the Australian public’s desire to see retailer and importers take
a more responsible and humane approach to sourcing their products.
1.3
Given the committee’s stance on the bill, I believe there may be scope
for further amendments to achieve similar aims through domestic law. I believe
the intent of the bill should be supported, and that the Government should work
with Senator Madigan to achieve these aims.
Nick Xenophon
Independent
Senator for South Australia
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