The AMWU has called for industry policy and assistance from the government to protect the interests of working Australians in response to the Reserve Bank’s comments.

AMWU National Secretary Dave Oliver said that in light of the economic downturn, working people were vulnerable and government policy ought to reflect their needs.

“The RBA’s negative economic forecast comes on the back of the Productivity Commission’s comments on Friday which condemned any kind of government intervention in industry.

“We have seen first hand what a lack of industry policy results in. This is why we can’t afford to let past mistakes continue unchecked, but rather shift towards a more interventionist approach, “ said Mr. Oliver

Mr. Oliver said that it is poor trade policies of the past, and lack of industry policy that has led to a flood of job losses in Australia.

 “It is more important than ever for the Rudd Government to reassess the poor industry policies of the past that have stood back and just let jobs go off-shore.

“Now is a critical time for Australia to be investing in jobs of the future, in particular in the area of renewable energy industries, which offers the opportunity of real jobs growth.

“The Rudd government is on the right track, with recent reviews into the automotive industry, and their green car fund.

“There is great opportunity to act now in terms of climate change, ensuring that workers who would otherwise be displaced are instead supported and assisted to ensure a just and smooth transition.

“Our future manufacturing industry must change in the face of modern circumstance, and this cannot occur without government intervention and industry policy that is generated in close liaison with those industries.

“With clear, industry assistance policies and reforms that reflect the needs of working people, we can weather the storm of financial crisis, or climate change, or other challenges that arise.”