Government delivers justice for firefighters

Thursday, 24 November 2011

Senator for Western Australia, Louise Pratt, has welcomed the passage of the Fair Protection for Firefighters Bill through the Senate today.

“The Australian Labor Party has a proud tradition of protecting and supporting workers, especially on occupational health and safety. The passage of this Bill continues that tradition,” Senator Pratt said.

The Bill simplifies workers’ compensation claims for firefighters who have contracted certain types of cancer that are known to be caused by the everyday challenges of firefighting.

If a firefighter who has served a qualifying period of service contracts one of these cancers, it will be presumed that it was caused at work and is compensable.

“I echo the statements made by the Senate Committee that when a worker is exposed to carcinogens in the course of public service, like firefighting, it is the moral duty of the community to enable them to seek compensation,” Senator Pratt said.

“Every day firefighters put themselves in harm’s way to protect our lives and property.

“They are among the most deserving of society’s assistance, and I am pleased that the Government has recognised this by passing this Bill.”

While the changes will only apply to firefighters within the Commonwealth’s jurisdiction, Senator Pratt said that the Australian Government’s leadership on this issue should encourage the States and Territories to pass similar legislation.

“As the Senate passed this Bill, more than 60 career and volunteer firefighters were battling devastating bushfires in our South West,” said Senator Pratt.

“It would be a fitting tribute to their work for the WA Government to pass similar legislation immediately.”

Media contact: Senator Pratt's office 08 9225 4411

Download (27 kB)