The Australian Services Union has demanded urgent talks with Target management following today's media reports that jobs will be cut from Target head office in Geelong. Target has confirmed that management are conducting a review of the business that may have implications for jobs at head office.
The Union has to date not been consulted about the alleged plans to cut jobs from the Geelong-based head office. No further details have been provided by the company in respect to how many jobs are in jeopardy.
ASU Victorian Private Sector Branch Secretary Ingrid Stitt said that members were understandably alarmed by the media reports this morning.
"It is completely unacceptable that Target has failed to consult staff or their union representatives in relation to this process. It shows a complete lack of respect for staff and their concerns," said Ms Stitt.
"We will be demanding answers from Target management. If any decisions have been made regarding changes in the composition or size of Target's workforce, Target is legally obliged to notify the union and consult with staff. We will be investigating why this has not occurred."
"It is unacceptable that our members read about these possible job cuts in the paper. We'll be seeking clarification for our members, and holding a meeting with our members tomorrow to ensure members have a voice in the process."
Today's media speculation is a further blow to the Geelong community still reeling from the Ford announcement.
"The Geelong community has only recently suffered the shock of the Ford announcement, and now service sector jobs are also threatened," said Ms Stitt.
"Our regional centres are suffering. The State Government must act to secure jobs for the future." "The ASU will fight to keep jobs in Geelong."
The Union will be meeting with Target management tomorrow.
Media Contact
Ingrid Stitt
Branch Secretary, ASU Victorian Private Sector m| 0418 357 440
Edwina Byrne
Media and Communications Officer, ASU Victorian Private Sector ph| 93206702 m| 0409017140