UTAS Cleaners

In March this year, the University of Tasmania (UTAS) changed their cleaning contract from ISS to GJK.  This resulted in over 9 cleaners losing their jobs through no fault of their own.  After a high profile campaign demanding UTAS intervene and save their jobs, 7 of those cleaners were reinstated at a cost to GJK with no additional funding from UTAS.

Now, on the eve of their probation expiring, 5 United Voice members have been made redundant. GJK and UTAS are using legal loopholes and unethical contracting practices to shirk responsibility for their dedicated, hard-working cleaners like - Dave, Lyn, Sunil, and Carol.

Because of UTAS’s decision to contract out cleaning and tender for the cheapest price 5 United Voice members are now without jobs. That’s 5 families who will struggle to pay their bills and keep a roof over their heads, 5 families who will struggle to put food on the table, 5 families who will have to decide between petrol and healthcare. This is the reality for cleaners working in contract cleaning.

United Voice is supporting members to pursue their rights and entitlements to the full extent of the law, but given these staff were forced to renew their probation when the UTAS cleaning contract changed, such entitlements will be limited.

In the meantime, Dave, Lyn, Sunil, and Carol need your help so they can pay their rent, bills and feed their families. All contributions no matter how small or large are appreciated and will help to give peace of mind to these cleaners at this difficult time.