FNV

A new report from the FNV trade union suggests that government spending cuts will hit women harder than men. The union argues that reduced social security and healthcare services will force many women out of the workforce to take on unpaid care roles. Following a meeting with the cabinet, unions are now preparing industrial action to protest these measures.

Prime Minister Rob Jetten is attempting to bridge a growing divide with trade unions over controversial plans to raise the state pension age. While the government remains committed to a "sustainable" pension system, unions are furious over what they see as a breach of previous agreements. Early data suggests recent changes have boosted average payouts, but the political battle over future retirement ages continues.