Picture: J.L. “FRED” SMITH
FEARS about possible job losses at Millicent’s Woolworths supermarket have been expressed by the union representing shop assistants.
Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees’ Association (SDA) state secretary Josh Peak said the Millicent store ‘will definitely be impacted’ by a nationwide Woolworths restructure which was revealed to employees across Australia in recent days.
Built on a greenfield site in 1970, the Millicent Woolworths supermarket currently has a staff of 62 and the majority are SDA members.
Although Sydney headquarters management has not commented, it is understood Woolworths will set up two new fresh food departments, Fresh Service and Fresh Convenience, which could lead to some staff being made redundant.
It is understood Woolworths staff across Australia whose roles no longer exist would be able to apply for new positions created under the shakeup but there are fears pay and conditions may be downgraded.
Mr Peak said his union is calling on the Fair Work Commission to look into Woolworths, claiming its actions were not appropriate.
“We want the Fair Work Commission to order the roll-out to cease,” Mr Peak said.
“We have been inundated with calls from team members who have been made redundant.
“The Fair Work Commission should order Woolworths to consult with its employees and provide full details.”
Woolworths Millicent manager Benny Peck and his rank-and-file staff members have been approached for comment and have declined.
In text messages sent to SDA members and seen by The South Eastern Times, Mr Peak said his union is fighting to ensure ongoing employment for all workers impacted by the announced restructure.
“The SDA has serious concerns that Woolworths failed to properly consult workers and the union and many of the planned redundancies,” Mr Peak wrote.
SDA regional organiser Sean Pudney visited the Millicent store.
Among the hundreds of shoppers who passed through the doors yesterday were the four ember of the McElroy family, of Millicent.
They were undertaking their weekly shop and they said they appreciate the friendliness of the Woolworths staff.
