Chris, you obviously don't live in a mining town, because out here, that plumber would be on more like $120 per hour, and good luck finding one.

As proof, I would like someone in rural Brisbane area enquire about buying a load of water. 24,000 liters.

Out here, water from the council costs 11cents per kilolitre, so, the 24,000 (24 KL) costs 2.64.

To get it delivered, about 50 kilometers, I was quoted A STAGGERING $950.00, simply because water trucks are lined up ten deep servicing the mining industry.

In fact, one contractor removes waste water to the tune of 340,000 liters PER DAY!

But you are right, wages must be allowed to fall, as well as lift with the times.

After all, most prices rise and fall with supply and demand, why not wages.

"Why not wages" you ask?
Bloody unions that's why