Industrial Relations and the Legacy of New Protection

Abstract

This paper argues that public policy changes towards industry protection are the underlying causes of the major industrial relations changes that are currently taking place. The operation the tariff agencies and industrial tribunals gave rise to a New Protection environment that conditioned wage outcomes and employment relations. The reduction in industry protection has reduced the scope for New Protection processes and outcomes, and has necessitated a re-evaluation of wages policy and labour costs. © 1992, Sage Publications. All rights reserved.