The QCU Executive rejects, as a matter of principle, the sell-off of public assets. Public services are operated primarily in the interests of the people of Queensland...

QCU Executive Resolution – Privatisation of Public Assets

27 May 2009

The QCU Executive rejects, as a matter of principle, the sell-off of public assets. Public services are operated primarily in the interests of the people of Queensland rather than in the interests of shareholders' returns.

Executive notes the history of privatisation has resulted in the abrogation of responsibility by governments to provide vital services and long term
income streams to support these public services into the future. For example:

• sale of Vic Rail led to higher costs to the public with the private operator still collecting a yearly payment from the state government;
• sale of Commonwealth Bank has led to record profits lost to the public coupled with record fees imposed on the public; and
• sale of Telstra led to loss of profits to the public and loss in service standards

all of which have been detrimental to the public.

While the Executive understands the impact of the global financial crisis, it calls on the Bligh Government to maintain public assets for the people of Queensland.

To this end, QCU Executive:

1. calls on the government have further discussions with unions as a matter of urgency;
2. recommends that a political and community campaign be instigated and co-ordinated by Queensland unions;
3. recommends that Queensland unions call workplace meetings to keep members informed of developments;
4. calls on Queensland unions to consider further action if the above points are rejected by the government.