Nine University of Tasmania cleaners lose jobs after contract change

United Voice claims the UTAS cleaners were told they no longer had jobs after a new contract was awarded to GJK Facility Services.

Union representative Larah Ellis said experienced workers should not lose their job over a contract change.

"Many of these cleaners have worked at UTAS for years, and none have been given reasons as to why they weren't rehired under the new contract," she said.  

"Our current industrial relations system puts working people's livelihoods on the chopping block.

"The system leaves cleaners to too vulnerable at the time of a contract change.

"UTAS and GJK Facility Services owe it to Tasmanians to provide jobs that working people can count on."

A UTAS spokesman said as the successful tenderer, GJK had managed the employment process and were working to seek alternative employment opportunities for those affected. 

"Although our cleaning staff are not direct employees, they are a crucial and valued part of our university community and play an important role in what we do," the spokesman said.

"We acknowledge the uncertainty and stress this period of transition creates, particularly for those who have not received an offer of employment."