Labor forges new workplace policy

Labor has begun work on its industrial relations policy to take to the next federal election.

Opposition workplace relations spokesman Brendan O'Connor met with members of the Labor caucus' fair work task force for the first time on Monday.

The Launceston meeting, which also involved unions and community groups, canvassed a range of issues from penalty rates to boosting youth employment.

The task force will head to Hobart on Tuesday, before travelling to other parts of the country.

Mr O'Connor said Labor's policy would ensure workplaces were fair and productive.

Workplace policy will also be debated in detail at the ALP's national conference in late July.