The Federal Government has announced plans to expedite assistance for unpaid entitlements for workers who have lost their jobs at transport company First Fleet and car parts manufacturer CMI Industrial.

 

“This means that workers can access their unpaid entitlements sooner and not have to wait until the companies go into liquidation later this month,” Workplace Relations Minister Shorten said.

 

"The collapse of these companies represents exceptional circumstances. I am satisfied that my decision today is consistent with the intention of the scheme and is not being used to facilitate business restructuring.

 

“After receiving clear advice from administrators today that CMI and First Fleet will go into liquidation, we can now move to ensure workers can access GEERS assistance faster.

 

At least 450 people have lost their jobs in New South Wales, Victorian and Queensland through the collapse of First Fleet, and almost 50 workers have been made redundant at CMI Industrial in Victoria.