Isabel Thomas Dobson speaks in support of cleaners

The Uniting Church of Australia, Synod of Victoria and Tasmania endorses the action of the Spotless Cleaners. This is an issue of fundamental social justice and while Spotless recorded a profit of $43 million in the last financial year; cleaners earn what is in effect a poverty wage. They do a job that many of us would refuse to do and it is important that the community speaks out and supports them.

We recognise that Spotless is a company with a long history in Victoria.  Spotless still contributes to local communities through various charitable activities. During the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires Spotless delivered 7000 meals.

However, this spirit of generosity does not extend to the cleaners it employs to clean shopping centres.

We agree with cleaners when they say, the crisis in retail cleaning extends to all Australian shopping centres, Spotless holds a significant share of the market and therefore is an industry leader and should set a positive example.

It is disappointing to note, that while other major contractors have agreed to sit down with their cleaners and negotiate a living wage and a safe workload, Spotless continues to ignore calls by its workers to do likewise.

The Uniting Church in Australia, Synod of Victoria and Tasmania is proud to stand in support with these cleaners who are our neighbours and friends and deserve a decent wage to share in the wealth and prosperity of our country.

To take action go to our letter writing campaign action sheet!