The Senate’s significant decision to split the government’s controversial industrial relations bill is welcomed by business, the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry said today.

“It is disappointing that the Government failed today to vote for its own important measures that would provide support to first responders who have PTSD, people with silicosis and those subjected to family and domestic violence,” ACCI chief executive officer Andrew McKellar said.

“The successful vote has shown that these measures are non-contentious and can pass next week if the Government chooses. We urge it to do so.

“We thank Senators Jacqui Lambie and David Pocock, along with the opposition and other crossbenchers, for voting to split the Government’s unnecessary industrial relations omnibus bill.

“This allows the Government to go back to the drawing board to fix its remaining misguided industrial relations changes.”

“The changes on casual employment, labour hire, employee-like provisions, increased union delegate powers and wage theft do not support better wage outcomes or more productive workplaces.

“On the contrary, they will reduce flexibility, stifle wages growth and make it more difficult for business to create jobs for the future.”