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The Public Sector Review is an official publication of the Public Service Association of SA Inc and the Community & Public Sector Union (SPSF Group) SA Branch
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Budget suBmissions
Page 4
PsA Women’s ConFeRenCe
Page 7
soutH eAst meetings
Page 9
PUBLIC SECTORReviewwww.cpsu.asn.au August 2011www.cpsu.asn.au JUNE/JULY 2013
The first Budget by Premier and Treasurer Jay Weatherill was met with “cautious optimism” by the PSA.
The Government’s decision to put services for South Australian families and business ahead of further direct job cuts was welcomed.
“In our ongoing dialogue with Government since the Global Financial Crisis hit, we have emphasised the need for responsible financial management,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.
“We have made it clear, through research and reports, that responsible financial management needs to also encompass social capital.
“This means that Governments, when making financial decisions, need to contemplate the impact on the people who rely on them.”
In delivering his Budget, Mr Weatherill made it clear that he understood this.
The PSA has met with Opposition Leader, the Hon. Steven Marshall, in the wake of the Budget and his response to it.
In his Budget Reply speech in Parliament, Mr Marshall, in brief, said the Opposition’s three key economic concerns were:
1: Returning the Budget to surplus;
2. Growing the economy;
3. Making South Australia a more attractive place to live.
While little detail was provided, the key emphasis was the Opposition focus on small business development. The Opposition Leader ruled out massive job cuts in the Public Sector, but did not quantify this.
He said the previously announced Audit Commission would be replaced
continued page 5
He said he believed his Government was making a choice to continue to provide jobs and services to people in need, and that this would continue to support our society through difficult financial times.
“The Treasurer understands people are already struggling to make ends meet and need more help through services from Government, not less.
“He is also of the view that increasing unemployment and reducing service delivery by slashing Public Sector jobs is counter-productive..”
Over the past two decades the State’s population has risen from 1.4 million to 1.6 million people, yet the Public Sector has been reduced over the same time.
The PSA was less receptive of the Government’s increased efficiency dividend announced in the Budget.
Ms McMahon, said: “Importantly for PSA members and the community, any efficiency dividend savings can come from reductions or delays to
programs, not job cuts.
“Agencies will be required to
reduce their capital programs, or defer
introducing new systems, in order to
achieve savings in each financial year.
In respect to the Government
decision to reduce the value of
separation packages, the PSA has
always argued for jobs to be retained,
not for incentives for people to leave.
An incentive by an employer for staff
to leave voluntarily is not a condition
of employment which is protected by
Enterprise Agreements or Industrial
Awards.
The PSA welcomed the decision for
schools not to proceed with a previously
announced Financial Management
Program that would have resulted in the
loss of 300 Full Time Equivalent (FTE)
School Services Officer positions.
These 300 positions equate to up to 600
staff, many part time, who will now be
retained, benefiting employment across
the State, including regional centres.
“Public Sector workers are real
people, doing real jobs and adding real
value to the community,” Ms McMahon
said.
Budget Optimism Liberal Response to Budget
Jan McMahon, Premier Jay Weatherill and Lindsay Oxlad
Opposition Leader Steven Marshall meets with PSA
The PSA will be a dynamic organisation focused on the needsand aspirations of its members throughout South Australia as the principal trade union representing workers who provide community services to South Australians.
P2 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JUNE/JULY 2013
Secretary’s Column
FULL TraNsparENcY NEEdEd
By Jan McMahon
It’s been a big few months in terms of issues of importance to the Public
Service Association and its members – none more so than the question of public sector job cuts - an issue placed firmly on the agenda by the PSA ahead of the March 2014 State Election.
The PSA has been steadfast in its opposition to job cuts and their continued impact on the delivery of vital services to the South Australian community and has demanded transparency from both major parties on their intentions well before the election.
Last month’s release of the 2013-14 State Budget by the Premier and Treasurer Jay Weatherill and the equally important budget reply speech by Opposition Leader Steven Marshall gave important insight from both major parties, albeit that there remains a disappointing level of detail.
Mr Weatherill’s budget gave some comfort the slash and burn mentality of the past would not see a return. Certainly, the PSA is encouraged by Mr Weatherill’s recognition of the importance of the public sector and the vital services that it provides to the South Australian community. The Association welcomed his stated position that cutting services is not the answer to balancing the budget.
The PSA was encouraged by Opposition Leader Steven Marshall’s budget reply speech in which he ruled out massive job cuts in the Public Sector, stating “I genuinely do not believe that our final number will be significantly different from what the government has announced”. What Mr Marshall is yet to do is provide the all-important policy detail, particularly in relation to claims he would have fewer agencies and departments. The question of how the Liberal Party intends to achieve that outcome is pivotal and at this stage remains unanswered. The planned Audit Commission, greatly opposed by the PSA, will now be replaced with a State Based Productivity Commission, acting as an independent advisory body, but again the detail around how that will work,
and what it will be tasked with, remains unknown.
It has been, and continues to be, the PSA’s firm position that job losses will lead to further service cuts for South Australian families. With less public sector workers now servicing more South Australians than twenty years ago, the gap between service demand and those available to deliver the services is growing and will only continue to widen as the population ages. Put simply, you can’t continue to create a gap between public sector job numbers and the ongoing growth in the South Australian population and not expect there to be service decline.
PSA will continue to demonstrate to South Australian families the impact that job cuts will have on the services they rely upon.
There is no guarantee from the Government or the Opposition on the issue of job security, which continues to be a major area of concern for our members. At this stage neither party has committed to “tenure” beyond the life of the current Enterprise Agreement, which expires on June 30 next year. PSA’s clear position remains there is no logical reason to remove job security. With a backdrop of an ageing workforce, difficulties in retaining corporate knowledge as a result of job cuts and new effective processes to place all staff, there is no reason to remove job security.
While questions remain unanswered on both sides and concern for the future of the public sector remains, the PSA’s very clear message to both major parties is that it will not accept anything less than complete transparency on the issues of job and service cuts that will impact on South Australian families who rely on members to deliver services, and job security.
In the lead up to the March 2014 State Election, the PSA will continue to actively champion these very important issues under the banner of its ongoing ‘Mind the Gap’ Campaign, which seeks to both protect its members and the vital services they provide to South Australian families.
The critical importance of the public sector in supporting the Government
was well articulated by the Commonwealth Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus in a recent speech when he stated that:
“Good public administration is a protection not only against inefficiency and poor performance, but also against fraud, corruption, inequity, inability to conduct business confidently and infringement of human rights.
A democracy cannot function without public trust in government nor without a system of public administration in which the community can have confidence. From the perspective of government and the community, the public service is only as trustworthy as each of its employees”
The role of the public sector is therefore
to ensure that the community can trust that
government is conducted to the highest
ethical and performance standards. A public
sector where staff are proud of their work
and have confidence that they have delivered
professional and impartial services to the
very best of their ability.
In the months leading up to the State
Election the Public Service Association will
be scrutinizing the policies and commitments
of all political parties relating to the public
sector to gauge whether their claims that they
truly value their employees and are committed
to being “an employer of choice”.
The Premier is on the record
acknowledging that the government cannot
function effectively without the energy and
commitment of the public sector in delivering
its policies and programs. It is for that
reason that he has launched a wide ranging
rejuvenation program across government
with agency Chief Executives tasked to
implement reforms to enable their employees
to confidently deal with the challenges
of increased complexity and demand for
services and support by the South Australian
community.
Rather than adopting the failed approach
of previous administrations that cut public
sector jobs and employment conditions
and undervalued the work of staff, the new
approach focuses on supporting and nurturing
what the government acknowledges are its
most important assets.
While the Leader of the Opposition also
acknowledges the importance of the public
sector as the implementers of their policies
and programs, he is less clear about what he
and his Parliamentary colleagues see as the
role and function of the public sector and what
the Liberals will do if they win government
next year.
Although he has committed to publicly
announcing his party’s plans for the public
sector before the election he has also made a
commitment to establish a State Productivity
Commission (nee Audit Commission) to, inter
alia, examine the State’s financial situation
which will (if past experience and interstate
evidence is any guide) inevitably focus on the
size of the public sector workforce and our
employment conditions and entitlements.
Both of the major parties claim that
they value their employees and want to be
recognized as an “employer of choice” that
retains and attracts the best and the brightest.
The PSA will be looking for solid evidence
of this commitment over the coming months
and will continue to press them for clarity
and details.
President’s Column
WE, THE pUBLIc sEcTOr, UNdErpIN GOOd GOVErNMENT
By Lindsay Oxlad
The Public Sector REVIEW is an official publication of the Public Service Association of SA Inc and the Community & Public Sector Union (SPSF Group) SA Branch.
Comments, letters and editorial material to:
‘The Editor,’ Public Sector Review Level 5, 122 Pirie Street, Adelaide, SA 5000.
Selected articles are published electronically on the PSA Website at www.cpsu.asn.au
Tel: (08) 8205 3200 Fax: (08) 8223 6509 Toll-free: 1800 811 457 Email: [email protected]
Printed on partially recycled paper with biodegradable soy-based inks by Cadillac Printing, 64 Kincaid Ave, North Plympton, SA.
The Public Sector Review’s official publication number is PP565001/0010. This edition is Volume 47, number 3.
Responsibility for political content in this publication is taken by Peter Christopher, Editor.
PUBLIC SECTOR
ReviewVision Statement
THE PSA WILL ACHIEVE THIS BY:• ensuring job security for members
• membership involvement
• effective management supported by trained professional staff
• continual improvement of its operations
• improvement of members’ wages and working conditions
• provision of industrial support and other valued benefits to members
• promotion of the vital role of the public sector in the economy and community.
PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JUNE/JULY 2013 P3
HPS0164_PSA Review 125x90.indd 1 4/06/13 11:41 AM
Residential Care WinA PSA battle to protect children in care has resulted in a major breakthrough with the State Government agreeing to reduce costly and less effective outsourcing and employ 360 more staff.
This is a pleasing outcome which followed a long term campaign led by the PSA to fight for children in care who were being put at risk.
A growth in the number of children needing help had resulted in a significant staffing shortfall.
Instead of employing more
trained staff, Families SA instead turned to more expensive and less qualified outside agencies.
“These private companies simply did not have the same skills and abilities and direction of people who have been properly trained and qualified to care for these children.
“Gaps were appearing in these children’s care and they were at greater risk of being failed by the very people who are meant to be caring for them – again.
“The PSA did not consider the practice of outsourcing of Public Sector positions at a higher cost to the tax payer to
be a responsible and reasonable administrative action.”
The PSA notified the Department for Education and Child Development of a dispute in March.
Since then there have been discussions, including a meeting with the Minister, The Hon. Jennifer Rankine.
Minister Rankine said she would take the issue to Cabinet for discussion, seeking a funding outcome.
Around the time of the State Budget, Ms Rankine announced that the outsourcing would cease and 360 full time Families SA
staff would be employed to look after the State’s most vulnerable children.
Future meetings with the Minister and other representatives will further analyse the parameters which are yet to be fully released and consider whether the proposed staffing arrangements are satisfactory.
ASO1 PROgReSSiOnThe push, initiated by the PSA, to have the skills and experience of long-standing ASO1s recognised and rewarded is continuing.
The outcomes will also benefit SSO1 and
OPS1 members.
This campaign aims to prove that while these
positions are intended as entry level, staff have
often in the past not progressed despite, in some
cases, decades of service and commensurate
increases in skills and knowledge.
The PSA is arguing for proper and more rapid
progression.
There is also a campaign to link the ASO1
level with a new youth training program as part
of a larger recruitment drive.
The Department of the Premier and Cabinet
has established a working party at the instigation
of the PSA to examine the issue of ASO
progression.
It is required to provide a report to the
Premier and Senior Management Council by
30 June 2013 .
The PSA has had significant input into that
report and will continue to push hard to ensure
it moves forward.
“This should result in a major improvement
for many thousands of Public Sector
employees,” PSA General Secretary Jan
McMahon said.
“This is the backbone of the Public Sector.
Too often overlooked, these staff should now
be more properly recognised and rewarded
thanks to this campaign.”
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P4 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JUNE/JULY 2013
The recent State Budget contained many elements which will impact on the Public Sector – some more positively than others.
Some of the highlights in brief, include:
• New scoping study toexamine need for a mode rn i sed cou r t s complex;
million on SA Medical Research Institute;
• Extra health workers forr e m o t e a b o r i g i n a l communities;
• School upgrades and newChildren’s centre’s at a cost of about $150 million;
• A new public transporthub at Tonsley Park and new buses ;
• $6.4millionupgradeto000system;
• A new $2.9 million bailaccommodation support program;
• Increasedpolicebudgetandmoney for a new cyber investigation system for the Independent Commission Against Corruption;
• Ongoing spending of $9.1
• New spending on disabilityservices linked with the Nat iona l D i sab i l i t yInsurance Scheme plus extra funds to upgrade special schools;
• Increases of 3% of a widerange of fees and charges;
• S ign i fi can t ongoingspending on roads including the $894 million SouthRoad upgrade.
Budget Submissions
Budget Highlights
Ahead of the State Budget, the PSA presented Premier and Treasurer Jay Weatherill with submissions and concerns for future planning.
This included a report on the significant challenges posed by our ageing workforce.
The report “Age for a Change: Ageing and Public Sector Renewal in the 21st Century” was prepared by the Australian Workplace Innovation and Social Research Centre of the University of Adelaide.
The report concluded there were a number of strategic implications brought about by an increasingly ageing Public Sector serving an ever ageing population.
THESE InCLUDED:
1. The need to undertake a detailed review of the implications for public service demand and delivery, of the ageing of the South Australian population.
2. The need to develop a Public Sec to r Workforce Age Management Strategy that addresses the contribution of older workers to productivity and innovation.
3. The importance of an orderly transfer of knowledge and skills in the public service to help prevent the loss of critical capabilities, knowledge and skills as the retirement rates of public servants accelerates.
4.A centrepiece of this could theintroduction of a Youth
EmploymentAcceleratorProgramproviding a pathway for young South Australians into public service employment.
5. The need to identify the likely consequences of public sector restructuring through the introduction of community impact statements.
6.The need to avoid contributing to
rising unemployment in South Australia over the next year by capping public sector workforce reductions.
“It is very clear to the PSA that a lack of attention to the realities of ageing are putting services to the public at grave risk,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.
“not only are the ongoing cuts
to jobs and services harming our
community, but this lack of planning
must be reversed if we are to have
enough people left to provide the
services needed.
“Retention and recruitment will
prove to be more critical issues in the
immediate years ahead than cuts to
jobs and services now.”
Inside the Budget Lock Up
PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JUNE/JULY 2013 P5
SPeed CAmeRA WinVigorous pursuit of a reclassification of
speed camera operators has resulted in them
moving from OPS1 to OPS2.
The reclassification followed a determination
in March this year from the Public Sector
Grievance Review Commission supporting the
reclassification.
PSA appeared at that hearing representing 25
members.
SAPOL subsequently sought advice from
an external consultant, but has now decided to
implement the Commission’s determination.
In early June the Commissioner of Police
advised PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon
that the reclassification would take place and be
back dated to April last year.
“It was a great win for PSA members who
had been pursuing this for more than a year,” Ms
McMahon said.
“We’ll continue to make sure that this pay rise
flows through in a timely manner.”
Liberal Response to Budget (cont from p1)
Jan McMahon media conference on Budget day
by a State Based Productivity Commission, as an
independent body to advise an incoming Liberal
government, should that party win the March
2014 election.
PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon,
President Lindsay Oxlad and Chief Industrial
Officer Peter Christopher met with Mr Marshall
on June 26.
At that meeting Mr Marshall restated that any
Public Sector job cuts, should he become Premier
at the next election, “would not be significantly
different from what the Government envisages”.
He also advised that any proposed job losses
would be announced prior to the election and
confirmed that he would look to merge some
Agencies, but that he had not determined any
“hard and fast outcomes”.
As stated in his Budget Reply speech, Mr
Marshall confirmed that he would establish
a State Based Productivity Commission, and
clarified that an Audit Commission style of
activity would be undertaken during its first three
months to examine Agency expenditure.
PSA identified the importance of continuing
job security for members, and asked that the
Opposition reconsider this policy.
Catherine KaneThe Public Service Association of South Australia
mourns the sudden loss of a valued colleague, Catherine Kane.
At work, Catherine was a dynamic, compassionate manager and a committed
Public Sector unionist. She forged many deep friendships over a career spanning
three decades and will be truly missed and fondly remembered.
Heartfelt sympathy goes out to
Catherine’s husband Angus and family,
who have lost a devoted wife, daughter,
sister, mother and grandmother.
P6 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JUNE/JULY 2013
Documents obtained under
Freedom of Information (FOI)
have confirmed facts the PSA
has long been reporting and
f ighting against regarding
security and safety in our
prisons.
THE FOI, by Family First MLC The
Hon. Robert Brokenshire, revealed
quite clearly some of the problems
caused by chronic overcrowding and doubling or tripling up of inmates in cells.
The documents showed Correctional Officers had been left in dangerous situations on numerous occasions.
PSA Chief Industrial Officer Peter Christopher said the documents “reveal the extent of security issues”
facing correctional services offiers.
“Much of the violence results from
overcrowding,” he said.
“That is an issue we have been
firmly fighting against. Other issues
of grave concern include the number
of mentally ill people being placed in
jails when they may be better served
elsewhere.”
T h e S t a t e B u d g e t announcement of a boost in prison capacity by 60 beds was welcomed by the PSA.
Members will be able to access the new Retention Leave Provisions negotiated by the
PSA from July 1.All the final details have been
worked out about how the Leave Provisions will be applied and the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment has issued a Determination – available on the PSA website.
This new form of leave has come about as a result of a campaign and
Prison FOi
Retention Allowance
mORe PRiSOn BedS“This is something we have
campaigned for solidly, and comes in the wake of other capacity increases,” PSA Chief Industrial Officer Peter Christopher said.
negotiations between the PSA and the Weatherill Government.
It largely compensates members who lost out some Long Service Leave entitlements stripped away by former Treasurer Kevin Foley.
The new Retention Leave started accumulating from July 1 2011. It will be implemented in steps and by July 2015 eligible employees will be credited with 4 working days’ retention leave a year. This is in addition to 9 calendar days Long Service Leave every year. Four working days’
“A move to create a new 30-bed short term remand centre will also ease some of the pressure on our near capacity prison system.”
The PSA has urged the Government
Retention Leave is equivalent to 5.6 calendar days of annual leave.
Any Retention Leave taken will be extended by any public holiday which occurs during the period of that leave. For Long Service Leave that does not occur.
The PSA relentlessly pursued the reduction of long service leave entitlements. The Retention Provision was negotiated in parallel to pursuing the lost LSL.
“This Retention Provision is an acknowledgement of the skills and
to co-locate the new remand facility with Yatala and the Women’s prison.
“It makes sense to create a new facility at a location where the Government already has the land and staff are already located.”
experience which a long term employee contributes to the Public Service and the benefits to the employer of retaining such experience,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.
“We all fought long and hard over this Provision and now members can reap the rewards of their efforts.
“This involved a High Court legal battle, relentless campaigning and strong negotiations with successive Government leaderships.
“In the end, a good outcome was achieved.”
PSA Women’s Conference
Retention Allowance
mORe PRiSOn BedS
PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JUNE/JULY 2013 P7
PSA Women’s Conference
It was a full house for the PSA’s 26th Annual Women’s Conference in June with the theme of “Fabulous Jobs - Fabulous Lives”.
PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon opened the Conference, providing promising statistics on growth in women’s employment in the Public Sector – although she noted this is not yet associated with a commensurate increase in the number of women in executive roles.
Sue Hammond shared personal memories and experiences of the way things have improved, aided with old photographs highlighting the harshness of women’s lives in the early part of the 20th century.
A lively group session remembered how workplaces had changed, from times when everyone
smoked at their desks and women
were told not to wear trousers and to
wear high heels.
Alyson Laughlin from Health
Partners provided a very motivational
presentation on “Looking After
Yourself ” and Sharon Holmes’
presentation “Creating Better
Workplaces for Women” provided
participants with the opportunity to
discuss their own experiences and
challenges.
The PSA was also delighted
that Professor Barbara Pocock was
able to speak to members with a
presentation entitled “Working
Women in Australia 2013 – The
good, the bad and the need for
Change” providing a snapshot of
women’s working lives over the past
60 years.
Fabulous Jobs – Fabulous Lives
Professor Barbara Pocock Sue Hammond
P8 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JUNE/JULY 2013
TAFE BattleA bid to exclude the PSA from negotiations regarding the TAFE SA transformation has been defeated.
TAFE SA initially advised
that it would not accept the PSA
nomination to the TAFE SA
Consultative Committee.
TAFE SA management claimed
the nomination “is not considered
appropriate”.
The PSA refuted this suggestion,
that it did not have the right to
represent PSA members on a
consultative forum. To the contrary,
it asserted that PSA members
must not be denied the right to
representation.
The PSA sought the cancellation
of Consultative Committee
meetings until this important right
A proposal by management that paediatric care be slashed at the Modbury Hospital raised immediate concerns for the PSA.
On the day the proposal was aired publicly, media interviews with PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon revealed those concerns.
“This is a glaring example of how cutting budgets can harm essential services,” she said.
“Getting rid of paediatric
The march of technology and changes in educational opportunities and requirements have, over time, blurred the lines between Technical Grades Officers (TGOs), professional and other classifications.
This was recognised by the PSA
during negotiations for the current
Enterprise Agreement, and the need
to examine the issue was enshrined
in that agreement.
The PSA is now preparing its
submission to Government on
behalf of TGOs.
As part of this a survey has
been disseminated to quantify and
clarify roles, qualifications and
responsibilities of TGOs.
TAFE management that PSA
representation was appropriate and
proper and our Industrial Officer is
now welcome to attend all meetings.
The PSA has been closely involved
in the ongoing transformational
work to ensure members are not
disadvantaged by the change.
Organisational structures have
now been suggested for consultation
was recognised and an urgent
meeting was held with the acting
Chief Executive.
At that meeting, in a win for
PSA members, it was agreed by
care for a large section of our community is not acceptable.
“It will potentially cause hurt and worry to sick children and their families at their time of urgent need.
“It is appalling that cuts have clearly gone so far that any hospital manager would even suggest cutting essential services for sick children.”
SA Health has so far stated that this is a proposal for consultation and that no decision has yet been made.
Quantifying how qualifications
have changed, equipment has been
upgraded, and roles have evolved
over time, is vital in presenting the
case for greater recognition.
“There is no doubt in anyone’s
mind that there has been rapid
change in technology and its
applications,” PSA Chief Industrial
Officer Peter Christopher said.
“There is also little doubt that
work structures, roles and pay scales
have lagged behind this change.
“Our survey and other
submissions to Government will
examine that change and how it is
impacting on members and what
changes should be made.”
and a survey was made available for
feedback.
An additional Transformation
Census has been released for all
staff to complete providing vital
information in regards to employees
and their intentions.
The PSA will continue to monitor
these changes closely.
TeCHniCALgRAdeS RevieW
Paediatric Care Concerns
PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JUNE/JULY 2013 P9
PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon met with members and Worksite Reps during a recent visit to the South-East.
Scheduled meetings were held in Mt Gambier and naracoorte with informal meetings held with other members in other local centres.
A wide variety of concerns
and issues were canvassed and a general concern was noted about a decline in services.
“Workloads are increasing, and passionate staff told us how they are pushing themselves harder and harder on behalf of their community to provide vital services,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.
South east meetings
Prolonged negotiations have resulted in a positive EB win for Forestry members. Over the past 14 months, the PSA worked with other unions to negotiate a good faith agreement with Forestry SA management.The PSA steadfastly sought an outcome no less than the agreement achieved in the parity Public Sector
Enterprise Agreement achieved last year.Earlier this year management delivered a draft agreement which fell far short of this goal.
It was unanimously decried by unions and the PSA campaigned actively for members to vote “nO”.At that ballot 91% did vote “nO” and that management-driven agreement was defeated.
negotiation resumed and subsequently all disputed matters were resolved.A revised agreement was submitted to staff for ballot and it received overwhelming support, with the
PSA urging members to vote “YES”.This was a good outcome for members who should be congratulated for their persistence.
They had the courage to say no, and stood up for their rights.
Forestry eB Win
P10 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JUNE/JULY 2013
Holiday Home availability : JUly - oct 2013 July August September October
Glenelg 17 - 26 30 - 31 1 - 30 1 - 31 K. I. 27 - 31 10 - 23 ––– –––Mannum 1 - 5 1 - 2 1 - 13 19 - 25 27 - 31 21 - 27Pt Lincoln 6 - 31 1 - 16 14 - 20 12 - 31Pt Vincent 1 - 9 3 - 31 1 - 30 1 - 31 13 - 26Robe 1 - 12 1 - 31 1 - 20 1 - 31 20 - 31 Goolwa ––– 3 - 16 1 - 13 19 - 31 24 - 31 21 - 27 Wirrina 22 - 31 1 - 23 1 - 6 12 - 31 14 - 20
All units are airconditioned.
Standard week is 2pm Saturday until 10am the following Saturday.
Members are advised to vacate the units by 10am at the latest. Earliest arrival time is 2pm. This time will be used to prepare the unit for your arrival.
It is the responsibility of the member to replace any damages / breakages that occur.
Off-season rates do not apply should school holidays fall during this period.
School holiday bookings are decided by ballot. You must apply in writing. The ballot closing dates are Christmas holidays - 30 April: April holidays - 30 November; July holidays - 28 February; September holidays - 31 March.
Cancellations. If cancelled one month before, full refund is given. If cancelled two weeks before, half refund is given. If cancelled less than two weeks before, one third refund is given.
FOR INFORMATION CONTACT [email protected]
Enjoy a PSA holiday home!
Anna Stewart memorial ProjectThis year it has been my great privilege to be the PSA’s representative at the Anna Stewart Memorial Project. A diverse group of 15 women from different unions attended the two week Union training which commemorates the remarkable ground-breaking work of union activist, Anna Stewart.
We were immersed in all things union – learning about the history of women in the movement, how to promote collectivism, encourage membership and develop networking teams.
During my days at the PSA, I was given the chance to attend meetings at 2 of our public hospitals, correctional services and with Youth Workers. I also “beat the pavement” with one of the recruitment staff. Everyone at the PSA was friendly, helpful and encouraging of my involvement.
As a group we were welcomed to Parliament House by Frances Bedford MP and The Hon. Gail Gago hosted a wonderful lunch for us at Parliament House.
Another highlight was our “host union” day. I was fortunate to be hosted by the CMFEU on a tour of Adelaide Oval and the new footbridge. Resplendent in hard hat, safety glasses and steel cap boots, we were given the “grand tour” of both construction sites and were able to ask questions of both the CMFEU organiser and construction company representatives. What a great day for a self-proclaimed cricket tragic like me!
I finished the Project with 14 new friends, a much deeper understanding of the union movement, both past and present, and a new found appreciation of the inner workings of the PSA.
Sandra GursanskySchool Services Officer, Northfield Primary School
classifiedsFOR SALEFor Sale – MOTOR BIKE Suzuki Boulevard 208, VL 800 Black Low Kms 3,300, Includes Saddle Bags, Back Rest etc $7,500 ONO Call Trevor: 0408863531For Sale - BACK PACK - BRANd New, Nitro day Pack “Black diamond” Orange Colour, 35 litres, purchased from Scout Outdoor Centre. ONLY $60. Please phone Karen 0429 089 256For Sale - Billiard table, 8 x 4 ft, walnut, 6 turned legs, Italian slate, english cloth. Very good condition. Cues, balls, score board, cover and other accessories included. Please call Mike on 0417 805 972 REAL ESTATETIMEShARE FOR SALE - 1 b/r apartment Gold Coast - $1500.00 o.n.o. Call Trevor on 0408863531 or Sue on 0408 867 573 for further enquirieshOLIDAY ACCOMMODATIONCarickalinga - Stylish holiday home. 3 b/rs, 2 bathrooms, modern kitchen, r/c air conditioner. Fully furnished and equipped including dishwasher, TV/dVd, bbq. Located on Carickalinga Rise with panoramic coastal views. $170 p/n. Min 2 nights. Contact: 8357 0587 or 0439 800 978KINGFIShER LODGE, EDIThBURGh, YORKE PENINSULA
Sleeping up to 10 people in 4 large bedrooms including two queen size beds, the house will easily cater for 2 families. Two other bedrooms each contain a single bed and double bunks. All beds have quilts (with covers) and pillows. You will need to bring sheets, pillow cases, towels and tea towels.Features include a large fully equipped kitchen, spa bath, large lounge, games room with built-in wet bar and a second toilet. Facilities available include flat screen TV and dVd/video, Cd/cassette player, table tennis, games, front loading washing machine, an iron, bar fridge and a freezer. Outside is a BBQ area and plenty of room for parking. The house itself is situated in the centre of edithburgh, only a short walk from shops, and several dining establishments. The jetty and swimming areas are also within easy walking distance, and the boat ramp is only a two minute drive away. Tennis courts, the flora park and golf course are just around the corner. View
house images at www.edithburgh.net email [email protected] or contact Cathy on 0412 641404MARION BAY YORKE PENINSULA -Wywurry Beach houseStylish three bedroom elevated pole frame beach house a few minutes walk to the long sandy beaches of Marion Bay and only five minutes to the walking trails of Innes National Park. Spacious open plan living with views over scrub, the salt lakes and Innes National Park. Quality modern furnishings and fittings throughout. Features include: Split system rc air con, 50 inch plasma TV, dVd / Cd player/radio/iPod dock, books, games, some Cd’s and dVd’s provided. Flat screen TV main bedroom. Fully equipped kitchen, tea and coffee provided. Three double bedrooms, master bed ensuite 2 way bunk beds third bedroom. All beds have pillows, quilts with covers and blankets provided. Need to bring own sheets and towels. Gas BBQ, outdoor setting, native gardens and birdlife, dual driveway access suit 2/3 cars and a boat. Marion Bay is a three hour drive from Adelaide along the scenic Yorke Peninsula. Very reasonable rates from $100 per night . July - September Special, stay 5 nights pay for 4. Contact JeNNY on 0407 236 766 or email [email protected].
“OCEAN BREAK” - MIDDLETON - Centrally located at Middleton, is an inviting home with beautiful, bright beach style décor. It is close to Middle Point and other well known surfing and swimming beaches, bakery, tavern and general store. Fully self contained with almost every modern day amenity to ensure a carefree enjoyable stay. Features: 2 b/rms (sleeps 6), electric blankets, pillows, r/c a/c, colour tv/dvd/vcr radio/cd, microwave, stove, fridge/freezer, bbq & outdoor settings, fenced secure garden & car parking. Reasonable rates. Packages & vouchers available. Ph: 0403 271 015 or 8326 2619 or email [email protected]
de-sTRess iN cHORd
All you bathroom baritones and tenors out there who would like to develop those voices and sing a range of music from Gershwin to Opera choruses to modern musicals and be a part of a group of people who have been involved in this for one hundred and twenty years (not the same people by the way). Apart from the pleasure of developing a broader musical knowledge, it is a great de-stresser and an opportunity to be a part of a group of interesting people with a variety of different occupations and hobbies. The Adelaide Male Voice Choir is always trying to improve and build on its qualities to bring in new members, or even just friends of the Choir. If you feel you would like to be a part of the living history of our State or would like to just come in and experience a practice night, please ring one of the following phone numbers: 8270 2628 or 8332 1895 – www.amvc.org.au
Psa discOUNT seRVices
As a member, you’re entitled to purchase gift cards at discounted rates from the PSA for the following stores:woolworths wish Card (5% discount)
This card can be used at:• Woolworths Supermarkets• Big W• Woolworth’s Liquor• BWS• Dan Murphy’s• Masters Home Improvement
(Interstate and Mount Gambier only)
• Dick Smith• Woolworth’s Caltex Service
StationsColes Gift Cards (5% discount)Harris Scarfe CardSelected cinemasFull Range of Adelaide Metro Multitrips
Gift cards work like debit cards, with a set value that decreases with each sale.
Purchases can be made in person from the PSA, by phone or by downloading an order form from the “Membership” icon on the PSA web site (www.cpsu.asn.au).
Increasingly, the PSA is providing information to members on industrial matters and other benefits via email. To ensure that you receive the very latest information, please let us know if your email address changes. Just send an email message to [email protected] with the details and your membership record will be updated.
INFO BY EMAIL
www.cpsu-spsf.asn.au
The federal office for State public servants, the CPU-SPSF (State Public Services Federation) has launched a new website, and all PSA members are encouraged to contribute material.
The website has general interest areas, an online journal “The Public Interest”, a links page and specific sections for women, schools, higher education and corrective services.
As well as being a useful site to ‘bookmark’, website co-ordinator Ryan Heath believes your views and experiences need to to be up in writing to make the site work.
If you have anything from a book review to a campaign victory in your workplace to report, email: [email protected].
FEDERAL WEBSITE
PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JUNE/JULY 2013 P11
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CPSU
• Published six times a year
• Full colour pages
• Direct-mailed
• Regular features
• Travel and entertainment
• News and views
PUBLIC SECTOR 'RENEWAL'
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SAVAGE CUTS TOHEALTH
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2012 A YEARIN REVIEW
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PUBLIC SECTORReview
EB Actions
plus 3% (October 2012) plus 3% (October 2013).
Improved conditions included extra travel time for Regional professional development, additional paid maternity leave and partner leave.
All existing conditions were protected and additional requirements have been placed on managers to
The overwhelming vote in favour of acceptance of our new EB was a pleasing end to sometimes difficult negotiating circumstances.
Starting from a position of distrust, due to previous breaches of good will and fair dealings, the PSA was able to ensure a strong, secure, enforceable agreement which protects and improves rights and entitlements.
The lengthy process which resulted in this outcome involved hundreds of meetings at worksites around the State as we sought members’ input and listened to concerns.
“The final very pleasing outcome of these efforts through such a huge “Yes” vote, was a strong endorsement on the content of the EB and the
process we undertook,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.
“The fact that we negotiated with this new Government leadership, with genuine dialogue and no need for dispute was a good outcome.
“In tough economic times, we have achieved a very positive outcome for members.
“It is a significant outcome and we can be very pleased that things are back on track.”
From the outset, the PSA sought a fair and reasonable salary increase, protection of existing conditions, job security, improvement of conditions, better workload protection and enforceability of the agreement.
“We ticked every one of those boxes,” Ms McMahon said.
The PSA required and secured a shorter 2 year Agreement (until June 30, 2014) and it includes job security.
“With a State election due in March 2014, neither Government nor Opposition will commit yet to future job security for a longer term.”
“The PSA was not prepared to have a longer Agreement that did not provide job security for its entire length. The next Agreement will be negotiated in the run up to the next State election.”
The Agreement provided all those involved with a $1,000 bonus
Many other EB negotiations, for those areas not captured by the main Enterprise Agreement negotiated with Government, are continuing.
Three year Agreements for Minda, Novita and Red Cross staff were negotiated last year.
Within our schools, negotiations
have commenced as they have for
members working in Electoral Offices,
Parliament, Forestry SA, West Beach
Trust, Adelaide Festival Centre Trust,
WorkCover and SA Lotteries.
The PSA will continue to push
these negotiations along in full
consultation with members to ensure
an equally solid outcome.
ensure safe and proper workloads.
In accordance with the Fair Work
Act, following the strong positive vote,
the Agreement has been certified by
the Industrial Relations Commission
of South Australia.
“We thank all those involved in
these prolonged and often difficult
negotiations,” Ms McMahon said.
A
www.cpsu.asn.au DECEMBER 2012
EB WIN
PUBLIC SECTORReviewwww.cpsu.asn.au
August 2011Restoring TrustFormer Treasurer, Kevin Foley destroyed “good faith” in negotiations for future enterprise agreements the day he moved to cut agreed rights and entitlements by law rather than through the enterprise bargaining process.In his last Budget, when he slashed long service leave, cut leave loading and threatened job security, he also drastically undermined the whole basis of good faith negotiations.By destroying that process – by stripping away rights and entitlements agreed to by the Government only months before, and finalised in an Enterprise Agreement that was certified by the Industrial Relations Commission, he created a significant problem for future negotiations.
Negotiations for the next EB are due to start early next year with an agreement due to commence during 2012.The PSA is giving consideration to how to approach any future negotiations, and examining future options.
“Once you have a situation, where a union on behalf of its members has negotiated an agreement which is signed off by both sides, in good faith, under all applicable law, you would expect that to stand.” “What has happened is that the Government, a few months later, decided
to turn its back on that agreement and its employees and literally change the rules.“Only a Government as an employer can do this, and it raises very serious questions about the validity and worth of any future agreements made with any Government.”The manner in which the Government chose to legislate away agreed working rights and entitlements is the subject of a PSA High Court challenge.
The outcome of that challenge will inevitably have a bearing on how future negotiations are conducted.Alternatives to the previous Enterprise Agreement process may involve arbitration by the Industrial Relations Commission to achieve legally binding outcomes, and to allow for consideration of the value of lost entitlements.This would be a time consuming and adversarial approach, but would result in a legally binding Award.
Also, arbitration may be a means of applying a value to specific entitlements and can be proven to have a value – that is, if elements of an overall agreed package (e.g. tenure) are removed, compensation is required.Arbitration, unlike an Enterprise Agreement, does not require the consent of the employer to the outcome.
Public Support for Public SectorA majority of South Australians have a positive view of the work performed by the Public Sector, new research shows.And many would be happier to see taxes rise, rather than services and jobs cut.The research was conducted by Dr James Whelan, Public Service Research Director of the Centre for Policy Development.
He found that despite many politicians making “a sport of kicking public servants” the community has “positive attitudes towards the public service and would like to see a strong, healthy and sustained service”.Dr Whelan’s research looked at 20 years of attitudinal surveys and found that, consistently throughout that time, people wanted to see services well funded.
“In fact, one of the interesting findings was that when people were asked if they wanted to pay more tax in order to increase the funding available for public services, like health and education and so on, the majority of Australians supported that,” he said in a media interview.Dr Whelan said that an examination of
commentary on the Public Sector contained in Hansard, the official record of Parliament, revealed that three quarters was negative or derogatory.“It’s really curious to contrast the attitudes expressed by politicians towards the public service, and attitudes of the general community.”
“The change in Government leadership may have an impact on relations and potential negotiations.” The Government’s new leadership have the opportunity to restore trust and move forward positively.
EXPERIENCE MUST BE REWARDED
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NO SHIPPING CONTAINERS
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SA GOVERNMENT SUPERANNUATION FEDERATION AGM
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HIGH COURT
BATTLE
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FRONTLINE
MEETING
FOR MINISTER
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PSA MEMBER
IN AUSTRALIA
DAY HONOURS
LIST
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PUBLIC SECTOR
Reviewwww.cpsu.asn.au
August 2011
www.cpsu.asn.au
February 2012
Any employer, planning for the future,
must make sure that there will be enough
people to cope with change and expansion.
Wise employers have proper retention
policies in place. Those who now urge
the Government to cut its workforce will
be among the first the cry out when a lack
of adequate retention policy results in an
inability of Government to provide services
and infrastructure in future.
“Without taking some rapid steps we will
continue to see a drain of professional and
valuable staff from the Public Sector into the
private sector or retirement.
“We are already struggling to attract people
to work for Government. Regular media
attacks against Public Sector workers as well
as budget and condition cutting, is not helping
to reverse that.”
In defence of the Public Sector following
a string of media reports calling, again, for
a slashing of jobs, Ms McMahon wrote a
column for The Advertiser.
Prominently placed, with photographs
from recent protest actions, the article pointed
out where the true crisis in Public Sector
employment lies.
“There is a crisis in Public Sector
employment. In fact there are two,” the
column stated. Continued on page 3.....
Retention of Public Sector employees is
shaping up to be a big issue in coming
months and years.
The PSA has already flagged with
Government that more must be done to avert
a looming crisis amidst altered economic
conditions and demands.
During wages and conditions negotiations,
meetings with Ministers and in the lead up to
the next State Budget, the PSA will continue
to highlight this vital issue.
Regular public attacks by partisan
segments of the business community against
PS job numbers completely miss the point.
The reality is our PS employees are
ageing, as is our entire population, while at
the same time there is a projected massive
growth in population.
Competition for staff is already very brisk.
It will increase dramatically in coming years
as major infrastructure and mining projects
come on stream.
Retention Vital
Hospital Parking DecisionThe Supreme Court has
granted permission for an
appeal to be heard, following
the Industrial Relations
Court determining parking
fees and arrangements
are not a condition of
employment protected by an
Enterprise Agreement.
The PSA argued that the
imposition of parking fees on
members at metropolitan health
facilities was a pay cut by stealth,
and breached the clause of the
Agreement which protected
existing conditions.
PSA argued it was a cut
in existing conditions of
employment.
“However, the Court held that
car parking was not a condition
of employment, rather it was a
benefit members enjoyed.”
The decision will mean
that this, and other working
arrangements, need to be
addressed in future wages and
conditions negotiations.
Whether it was a condition
or benefit of employment really
doesn’t change the fact that
members are now out of pocket
because of the actions of their
employer.
That clearly is against
the spirit of negotiations and
agreements.
Apart from the actual issue
dealt with by the Court, the
health system will now have
to deal with related issues if
it wants to be an employer of
choice.
Retention of staff is going to
be even more critical in future,
as hospital staff not only suffer
a pay reduction, but many shift
workers walk dark streets as they
travel to and from their vehicles
parked off site to avoid the new
charges.
The Chief Executive,
Department of Health, has
advised that no steps would be
taken at present to introduce or
increase fees pending the appeal
outcome Health has reserved its
right to change this if the appeal
can not be heard expeditiously.
PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon being interviewed
P12 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JUNE/JULY 2013
Methods of PaymentPlease complete one of the following sections
Direct Debit
PSA subscriptions are 0.95% of your substantive base salary (plus GST) to a maximum of the AS05 rate and are tax-deductible. The appropriate Goods and Services Tax amount will also be deducted. Unless otherwise notified, direct debits occur on the first working day of each month. Below is the authorisation for your subscription to be paid by direct debit.
To: The Manager
name of Credit Union/Financial Institution ____________________________________________________________
Address of Credit Union/Financial Institution __________________________________________________________
I/we request you, until further notice in writing, debit my/our account described in the schedule below, any amounts which the Public Service Association of SA Inc., Community and Public Sector Union, SA Branch (SPSF Group) may debit or charge me/us through the direct debit system.
I/we understand and acknowledge that the Credit Union/Financial Institution may in its absolute discretion determine:1. The order of priority of payment by it of any money pursuant to this request or any authority or mandate.2. At any time by notice in writing to me/us terminate this request as to further debits.
Signature/s ____________________________________________________________________________________
Date ____________________________________________________________________________________
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PSA/CPSU membership subscriptions may also be paid by cheque, money order or cash. If paying via this method, please make cheques and money orders payable to the PSA/CPSU.
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If you wish to pay by credit card on a monthly basis, please complete details below.
Card number □□□□ □□□□ □□□□ □□□□Cardholder’s name ________________________________________Expiry date ______________
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P S A M E M B E R S H I P A P P L I C AT I O N F O R M
If you join a non-member in your area now using the forms below, they and you will qualify to be in a draw for a weekend each at a PSA/CPSU holiday home.
The Public Service Association of SA Inc ABN 62 406 330 782
Community & Public Sector UnionSA Branch (SPSF Group)
Personal details
Title ____________________ Surname _________________________________________________________________
First name/s _________________________________________________________________________________________
Home address _______________________________________________________________________________________
Home phone _______________________________ Gender _________________ Date of birth ______________
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PSA MembershipI hereby apply to join the Public Service Association of SA and agree to be bound by the rules.
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Signature ______________________________________________________________ Date ___________________
I do / do not wish to receive a tax statement (please circle).
Please mail your completed application form to: For any further information call the PSA on:Reply Paid Number 5306, PSA/CPSU SA Branch, (08) 8205 3200 or freecall 1800 811 457GPO Box 2170, Adelaide SA 5001 (no stamp required)
The PSA/CPSU is bound by the Privacy Amendment (Private Sector) Act 2000. Information is collected to enable the union to contact you about matters relating to your union membership and to ensure that we have the necessary information to represent your employment and related interests. A member can opt out of receiving such information by contacting the PSA/CPSU. The PSA/CPSU Privacy Statement is available from the union’s web site or by contacting the office.
M E M B E R S H I P A P P L I C AT I O N F O R M
revi
ew
PSA Training Program 2013www.cpsu.asn.au/training
RETENTION WIN
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MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS
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SSO CONFERENCE& WOMEN'S CONFERENCE
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PUBLIC SECTORReviewwww.cpsu.asn.au
August 2011
www.cpsu.asn.au
June 2012
statements, not by Chief Executives simply cutting more jobs.The PSA also discussed a positive from the Budget – the introduction of the new retention scheme.Enterprise Bargaining was discussed with the PSA acknowledging that this process was underway with the Government agreeing to continuation of a Single Parity Agreement.
The Premier is aware of the background to these negotiations and the ill-will created by the 2010 Foley Budget.“It is important that this Premier is
willing to have these discussions with the PSA,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.
“Full and frank discussions are essential at the highest levels to ensure this does not happen again.”
The PSA leadership team met with Premier Jay Weatherill in the week after the latest State Budget.The PSA was represented at that meeting by President Lindsay Oxlad, General Secretary Jan McMahon and Chief Industrial Officer Peter Christopher.
Grave concerns were expressed to the Premier about the additional 1000 job cuts that had been announced.
It was made clear to the Premier that this would create severe difficulties in the delivery of services and have an unsustainable impact on workloads for members.
He was also advised that the PSA was closely monitoring the impact of the “efficiency dividend” – i.e. budget cut. The PSA has made it clear that these savings must be made by genuine efficiencies or program changes consistent with the Treasurer’s
Premier Meeting
SA Can’t Afford Job Cuts
Foley 2010 Budget in winning back conditions of employment.”The PSA recognised that it was
significant that Government is willing to accept a deficit Budget.“The PSA played an influential role
in that. Budget submissions pointed out that cuts of thousands and thousands of jobs is not the only answer.Future meetings will decide further
actions needed as a result of this Budget as the true impact becomes ever more plain.
The recent State Budget delivered a mix of bad and good news.A cut of 1000 jobs and a new “efficiency dividend” - i.e. budget cut - were the bad news items for the Public Sector.
The good news was the win of a new Retention Provision – a very pleasing outcome after prolonged negotiations (see separate story).Regarding the job cuts, the PSA
has advised Government – both in meetings and via the media – that cuts to jobs are unsustainable.“We can’t afford to lose Public Sector
workers,” Public Service Association General Secretary Jan McMahon said.“Morale is faltering, workloads
are growing, the whole system is at breaking point.
The PSA recognises the difficult global economic conditions and the national reduction in GST revenues.It notes, however, that the Australian
economy is faring well against almost all other nations and economic indicators for the future are bright.We don’t live in a vacuum, we
understand that.We recognise that the cuts could
have been worse if the Government
not be allowed to be a backdoor means of cutting more jobs.“If Department or Agency heads
start cutting staff to find this money, we need to know about it as soon as possible so we can put a stop to it.”The meeting also passed the
following resolution:
“That this meeting of PSA Worksite Representatives expresses concern at further job cuts, but notes that the Government has chosen a deficit Budget rather than even greater cuts to jobs and services.
“This meeting welcomes the announcement of a new Retention Provision recognising the valuable contribution PSA members make to the public sector and the South Australian community.
“Members are to be congratulated for their campaign efforts since the
had not been willing to accept the need to maintain a deficit for the next couple of years instead of aiming for a surplus.
“If that had been the case, then the job cuts would have been much harsher and the impact on community services much more dire.
Increasing the “efficiency dividend” – spending cut – from 0.25% to 1% for departments will also severely reduce the scope of needed services and leave people in need behind.Meetings of Worksite Representatives
were held at the PSA and regionally the day after the Budget was delivered.Reps were asked to ensure that
all feedback regarding the impact of the job and budget cuts flows back to the PSA.
They were in particular advised that the “efficiency dividend” should
Jan McMahon with Premier
“It is easy for politicians to simply say we will cut jobs and money. What they need to come clean about is what services they will be slashing as a result.”PSA General Secretary, Jan McMahon
PUBLIC SECTOR
Review
