MEDIA RELEASE Tuesday 10 December 2024
The health workers who look after cancer patients in treatment, radiation therapists, took protected industrial action today in the form of a four-hour stoppage from 10:00am.
More than 90 United Workers Union (UWU) health care members from privately-owned GenesisCare clinics across Queensland walked-off in an effort to highlight the gap between their wages and those of the workers doing the same job in the public sector.
Currently, a radiation therapist from Genesis earns, on average, 30 percent less than a radiation therapist from Queensland Health.
The discrepancy in wages is putting huge amounts of strain on Genesis workers who are feeling the brunt of the cost-of-living and housing crises.
UWU executive director Godfrey Moase said the workers who look after people while battling cancer deserved more than what Genesis was offering.
“These workers are at the side of Queenslanders often undergoing the biggest challenge of their lives. The patients under the care of our members, often express their gratitude,” Mr Moase said.
“Ultimately, these workers cannot pay their bills with thanks and gratitude, particularly at a time when the cost of essentials is biting.
“Genesis can, and should do better! If they truly cannot afford to keep up with the wages on offer within the public sector, then they should reasses occupying the healthcare industry altogether, because if they’re willing to keep a downward pressure on wages, what else are they willing to cut?”
UWU members reserved the right to take further industrial action in the event Genesis did not return to the table with a fair offer. Simultaneous rallies took place in Rockhampton and Hervey Bay.
ENDS
UWU Media Contact: 1300 898 633, [email protected]