The government’s sweeping industrial relations laws have passed the parliament, threatening to stifle business confidence as growing headwinds continue to batter the global economy.

“Despite last minute amendments in the Senate, these laws will do nothing to help businesses grow, to become more productive, and to pay higher wages,” ACCI chief executive Andrew McKellar said.

“These laws will only make our workplace system more litigious and more complex, sending Australian workers and businesses backwards.

“A number of concerning provisions remain that will have significant impacts on workers and businesses. Chief among these is the operation of the single interest bargaining stream, which will drag employers into expensive and arduous bargaining negotiations that favour unions at all costs.

“Indeed, under these changes, business owners who are roped into multi-employer bargaining can expect to dedicate more than four hours a day, for up to six months, participating in bargaining negotiations and away from their business.

“As the voice of Australian businesses of every size, industry, and region, ACCI stands ready to work with the government and parliament to ensure future changes to our workplace laws do not cruel economic growth, job creation and business competitiveness in the face of growing uncertainty.