NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell has announced that Treasurer Mike Baird has had industrial relations added to his portfolio responsibilities.

 

 “As a government we are committed to living within our means. We have made no secret of our determination to reduce spending to a sustainable level,” Mr O’Farrell said.

 

“The State Government is a significant employer and our wages bill represents close to 50 per cent of our operating expenses.

 

“To deliver the fiscal reforms necessary to rein in years of uncontrolled Labor spending the Treasurer needs to closely manage wage expenses.

 

“By combining the responsibilities of Treasurer with Industrial Relations, the Government will have greater ability to manage the Budget, and deliver the quality services people expect.

 

Mr O’Farrell said the changes would allow Minister for Finance and Services Greg Pearce to continue to manage significant reforms including streamlining government procurement, improving the management of the State’s $130 billion property portfolio, continuing implementation of the WorkCover reforms, and introducing best practice management at Sydney Water and Hunter Water to drive down costs for consumers.