Unions Slam Australia Post

The Communication Workers Union (CWU) has criticized Australia Post for its ties to Walmart. The US retail giant has always figured in controversies concerning unfair trade practices and mismanagement of workers’ rights.

The criticism came after Australia Post struck a deal with Tarazz, an online retailer. According to the Communication Workers Union, the partnership would open the doors to imports from Walmart.

About 20,000 employees of Australia Post are members are CWU. The union said it will probe Australia Post’s link with Walmart. Martin O’ Nea also encouraged Australia Post to ensure that its links with other retailers should reflect the treaties of the International Labour Organization.

O’ Nea is the assistant national secretary of CWU. The International Labour Organization, meanwhile, mandates freedom of association and ensures recognition of the right to collective bargaining agreement.

Walmart has always been controversial, no thanks to its efforts in fighting organized unions. The retail giant has also been against providing higher wages for its employees.

According to data, Walmart pays an average US$8.81 (or $8.40) per hour. An annual salary of a sales associate would be about US$15,500 (or $14,708). Walmart also does not offer full-time work for sales associates.

The minimum weekly wage in Australia is equivalent to US$17.53 while the minimum annual salary for a full-time position is US$34,639.

Australia Post has partnered with Tarazz to sell global brands to Aussies. Under the partnership, Tarazz can offer products from its list of suppliers, one of which is Walmart.