The Liberal National Party (LNP) government in Queensland announced plans on Wednesday for changes to workplace laws. These proposals include giving the Deputy Premier, Jarrod Bleijie, the power to break strikes by public sector workers in certain circumstances, such as when it is deemed "in the public interest."
The government also intends to make it more challenging for public servants, including emergency services workers, to claim compensation for psychological injuries. Under the proposed laws, workers would only be entitled to support if they can demonstrate their workplace was the primary cause of the injury.
Law firm Slater and Gordon stated that the changes would hinder Queenslanders' access to support for psychological injuries. The United Workers Union, which represents paramedics and some healthcare workers, described the changes as "an underhanded attack on Queensland ambulance officers and other hospital staff." Conversely, several business groups have welcomed the proposed changes.
Opposition leader Steven Miles commented on Thursday morning that the proposals were a "Newman-era attack on workers."