By James Atkinson
The Australian Hotels Association, Western Australia branch, will be leading the push for a more fair awards structure for hotels and restaurants, according to CEO Bradley Woods.
Woods said that at the request of its members, the AHA (WA) will be making submissions to Fair Work Australia on this year's reviews of the modern award and the Fair Work Act.
"This week we have been hearing from many restaurateurs and hoteliers about the unfair burden which the current awards structure places on the hospitality sector," he said.
"Currently in Western Australia three different Awards govern hotels, pubs, restaurants, cafes, and nightclubs. This creates a confusing and unequal environment for employers and staff alike
"Throughout 2012 and beyond, AHA (WA) will be making the case for a fair and better awards structure for the hospitality sector, in particular a seven day wage rate."
Woods said the current award structure is based on an outdated model for trades with a nine-to-five Monday through Friday work week.
"This simply does not apply to the hospitality sector, and many other modern professions," he said.