The Wire

The National party state conference in Brisbane on Friday could be the first significant set back for the government in pushing through its proposed Industrial Relations reforms. Delegates at the conference will discuss whether or not to reject the proposals on the basis that they undermine the state’s jurisdiction over IR. New National Senator Barnaby Joyce has indicated that he is waiting for his party’s direction before deciding how to vote. The government requires his vote to pass the legislation. The Queensland leader of the National Party, Lawrence Springborg expects that his party will oppose the federal government proposals at the conference. This could ultimately mean the liberals are forced to go elsewhere to get support for their IR proposals. Lawrence Springborg outlined to Sarah Greenlees the nature of his opposition to the proposed reforms.