Australian political scene seems to be rocked these days by controversies related to workplace reforms that allegedly present many disadvantages for workers but on the other hand, favor corporations and big businesses in general.

Labor party and federal opposition leader Kim Beazley released an official statement today, calling the thousands of people, who had gathered in central Melbourne to protest against these laws, the nation's "true patriots" and promised to fight these laws once they are approved. The labeling comes from the fact that the campaign against the changes in the Australian government's industrial relations is seen as a battle to regain ordinary life.

Addressing the protesting population, estimated to have reached between 80,000 and 150,000 individuals according to police sources, and to Beazley, respectively, at Bourke Street Mall, the latter stated: "This is a battle for ordinary Australian life. This is a battle for Australian families. It's also a battle for basic dignity in the workplace. You are the people that made this nation what it is. You are the builders of this nation. You are the true Australian patriots".

He encouraged demonstrators to fight for their rights at the workplace, saying they can be viewed as delegates of millions of other Australians who are against these reforms. "When we get into office in 18 months time, we will rip up these laws. Then we are going to put in place laws based on true Australian values. […] This is a time when the family budget is under pressure. This is a time when we need support. This is a time when we don't need job insecurity", Beazley added.

Beazley was also joined by Victorian premier Steve Bracks, ACTU president Sharan Burrow, as well as other political leaders, who promised industrial laws would be the first issue to be tackled at the next federal elections.