New Technology and Work in the Australian Telecommunications Sector: Big Brother is Watching You!

Abstract

New Technology and Work in the Australian Telecommunications Sector: Big Brother is Watching You! Peter Ross, Griffith University Abstract This paper examines the impact of rapid technological change on the role and employment practices of Telstra technicians. It critically analyses the broad claims that often surround the independent 'knowledge worker' typology - linked to the concept of 'nomadic' workers' - against the reality of the Telstra technical workforce. Rapid technological change and the requirements of speed to the market have in some instances overtaken more traditional notions of retaining core competencies within the firm. The ramifications for Telstra workers included job cuts and an increased reliance on outsourcing strategies. New technologies have further raised ethical issues including their use in the monitoring of Telstra technicians. The paper concludes that new technologies are fostering a system of employment practices whereby in-house Telstra technicians increasingly provide a maintenance role, with new next generation networks (NGNs) being built by external fixed-term project workers.