The Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) has today welcomed the Albanese Labor government's commitment of an additional $262.3 million and more than 100 new jobs in the budget for Australia's iconic national parks.
CPSU members and delegates have been advocating for additional funding and resources for years, after the former Coalition Government failed to adequately resource the agency.
Blatant under-resourcing not only failed to keep up with basic modern requirements, but saw visitor and safety facilities deteriorate, and lack of investment in managing feral animals and invasive species.
CPSU members in Parks do incredibly important work that the union has long argued should be valued, invested in, and protected by all governments.
The next step we look forward to working with the Government on is increasing wages and giving those workers on insecure labour hire and outsourced contracts the opportunity of secure, ongoing employment.
Quotes attributable to Beth Vincent-Pietsch, CPSU Deputy Secretary:
"Our national parks are some of Australia's most treasured assets, and this investment of $262.3 million and more than 100 new jobs in the budget is a significant step in clawing back the deterioration and neglect that occurred under the former Coalition Government.
"It will help ensure our national parks can continue to provide visitors with world-class experiences while preserving their unique natural beauty and diversity for generations to come.
"This investment will improve the management of our national parks and ensure they continue to be safe, accessible and enjoyable for all.
"CPSU members in Parks do vital work, often in challenging conditions and remote locations, to protect our national parks and the environment. Their work deserves to be valued and invested in.
"CPSU members and delegates have been advocating for additional funding and resources for years, recognising the urgent need to address the under-resourcing of our national parks. We are proud to have been at the forefront of this issue, pushing for greater investment in the management and protection of our national parks. This investment and new jobs are a testament to the ongoing commitment of CPSU members and delegates who have worked to ensure our national parks receive the recognition and support they deserve.
"While this investment is a positive step, we must also ensure that workers on insecure labour hire and outsourced contracts are given the opportunity for secure, ongoing employment. We look forward to working with the Government on these next steps."
