The Australian Services Union (ASU) has welcomed passing a bill that will deliver superannuation on paid parental leave, boosting the retirement incomes of hundreds of thousands of Australians for generations to come.
ASU National Secretary Emeline Gaske said the Paid Parental Leave Amendment (Adding Superannuation for a More Secure Retirement) Bill 2024, which passed the Senate today, was the focus of a long campaign by the Union.
“We welcome the delivery of superannuation on paid parental leave and thank the Albanese Government for making this historic reform a reality.
“Women retire with 25 per cent less superannuation than men due to parenting responsibilities, and today, this historic injustice has finally been addressed.
“This is an incredible win for ASU members and working women right across Australia, and it demonstrates the power and value of collective action in achieving justice.
“For many years, ASU members have been campaigning, advocating, organising and rallying to deliver superannuation on paid parental leave.
“Thanks to their dedication and relentless efforts, we have made that reform a reality today.
“Delivering superannuation on paid parental leave not only begins to reverse the economic disadvantage experienced by women right now, it will deliver economic fairness for countless future generations of Australian women to come.”
Ms Gaske wanted to note the contribution of a range of ASU members and officials to the success of the campaign.
“While successful campaigns like achieving superannuation on paid parental leave are always the culmination of the efforts of thousands of members and activists, I wanted to thank ASU advocates who for years have contributed to the campaign by travelling to Parliament and speaking to legislators about why this reform is critical for women.
“Finally, I would like to note the remarkable and invaluable contribution of the late Senator and former ASU National Secretary Linda White.
“A proud unionist, Linda dedicated her life to fighting for equality and justice, particularly for working women. This achievement was one of her greatest goals and a final addition to her proud legacy.”