Australians believe investing in skills and training is a better way to improve productivity than greater management 'flexibility' in hiring practices, new polling shows.
ACTU Secretary Dave Oliver said today's Essential polling showed many Australians took the common sense view that improving skills and training would deliver better outcomes.
A majority of voters (55% - including more investment in skills and education 32%, more input from workers 15% and invest more in technology and innovation 8%) supported measures that promoted investment and collaboration over cutting workplace rights and conditions.
Fewer than a quarter (23%) accept the view pushed by business that they need more flexible labour laws in order to become more productive.
"Business is relentlessly making the argument that they need greater control over employment conditions is the top priority to improve productivity," said Mr Oliver.
"In reality, boosting productivity is much more complex, involving investment in training, infrastructure, innovation and better management."
Meanwhile two-thirds of voters (67%) believe Australian workers are very or quite productive, the Essential poll found.
"By focusing on industrial laws, employers are suggesting that workers are the problem when it comes to productivity," said Mr Oliver.
"It's reassuring to know the majority of Australians see through the employers' cost-cutting agenda."
Contact: Ben Ruse 0409 510 879 or Eleni Hale 0418 793 885