The Minns Labor Government admits its Laws were rushed and without consultation but with the Greens party and Shooters, Farmers and Fishers party they have voted to refuse disallowance. Without change to the regulation, Councils tendering for rubbish and recycling contracts will be impacted by increased costs. Increased costs to Councils means increased costs for Ratepayers.
Shadow Minister for Local Government Wendy Tuckerman said the Local Government (General) Amendment (Tendering) Regulation (No 2) 2023 will escalate expenses for councils, inevitably burdening ratepayers.
“Minister Moriaty representing the Minister for Local Government arrogantly admitted during the debate that the regulation could lead to councils paying double for accrued employee entitlements.
“Rushed amendments, devoid of input from councils, waste contractors, or industry bodies, have produced adverse consequences, and it will be a cost paid by NSW ratepayers.
“The Opposition supports the objective of ensuring fair pay for waste workers, but the regulations as they stand overreaches – extending beyond equitable compensation for workers across contracts,” Mrs Tuckerman said.
Shadow Minister for Environment Kellie Sloane echoed concerns about the bill’s failure to guarantee transparency and fairness within Waste Management contracts which will impact resource recovery and recycling service suppliers.
Sloane criticised Labor’s plan for stifling competition and innovation in waste management and resource recovery, warning of long-term repercussions for providers, councils, and the environment.
The Opposition urges the Government to immediately engage with stakeholders and rectify the problems identified
“We will support engagement to write a new, effective solution but Councils and communities statewide are seeking certainty, simplicity, and cost efficiencies. The Minns Labor Government has failed to deliver.
WENDY TUCKERMAN 