New South Wales Local Government, Clerical, Administrative, Energy, Airlines and Utilities Union
Level 7, 321 Pitt St Sydney • Phone: (02) 9265 8211 Facsimile: (02) 9261 2265
Authorised by Ben Kruse, General Secretary, United Services Union, Sydney
MEDIA RELEASE
12 November 2009
Energy Australia In the Dark Ages on Treatment of Women
Energy Australia management remains in the dark ages in its treatment of women in the
workplace, according to the United Services Union (USU).
USU Manager Energy Scott McNamara today said in his view male employees were
consistently receiving preferential treatment at Energy Australia, despite a large portion of
the company’s workforce being female.
“While the NSW Government is preparing to sell off its state-owned energy retailers, it is
concerning that work practices at Energy Australia remain stuck in the dark ages.
“A pattern of behaviour has emerged from Energy Australia management where male
employees are given opportunities that are denied to female staff.
“Most recently, examples have occurred where arrangements have been made to
accommodate male staff who have lost their driver’s licences.
“A female staff member caught in the same situation, however, was forced to take leave,
and not given any opportunity to continue working in a different capacity.
“Unfortunately, this example reflects a number of other situations where female employees
of Energy Australia have been treated as second-class employees.
“Discriminating or the perception of discrimination against women in the workplace is
completely unacceptable, and it’s time for Energy Australia to address the cultural issues
that allow discrimination to continue in its workplace.”
Mr McNamara said the issue would be an embarrassment for the State Government as it
moved forward with its privatisation plans.
“Privatising the State’s energy assets will place thousands of jobs at risk.
“The treatment of women at Energy Australia is another sign that the State Government
has lost its way on energy.”
Media Contact:
Scott McNamara, 0417 217 785
Claire Johnston, 0434 489 533
NEWS 
