PSA Review March April 2015

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August 2015 2011 MARCH/APRIL

Health Reform: More Questions than Answers The PSA has held a series of worksite meetings seeking ongoing feedback to the State Government’s plan to transform health services.

These meetings followed in the wake of the release of the Government’s proposal paper early in February and a meeting with the Health Minister.

The PSA’s initial view is that far more detail is needed.

While the PSA supports an efficient and effective health system, the PSA does not support savage cuts and/or closures to meet budget savings.

In November last year, the PSA provided the Minister with views on his Transforming Health Discussion Paper.

PSA Health members include Allied Health Professionals, Professional Officers, Medical Scientists, Operational Officers, Technical Officers and Administrative Officers.

A survey of members was conducted by the PSA which revealed that 86% of respondents believed there must be more support within community settings.

This included increases in support for mental health community teams and within aged care facilities enabling more support by allied health clinicians and assistants to improve care.

Members were concerned the discussion paper had too narrow a focus on SA’s metropolitan hospitals.

Continued cuts to various preventative community programs have also significantly contributed to overcrowding within our public hospitals.

The Submission stated: “PSA members are very concerned that the

focus of “Transforming Health” is very narrow and that the health system seems to be distancing itself from population-based primary prevention.

“There is good evidence that investment in primary prevention is important and that policy and legislative approaches are required to create social and physical environments that make it easier to be healthy.”

There needs to be a model of wellbeing, rather than illness.

The proposals released in February do little to assuage these concerns.

The PSA’s concerns include: • The lack of detail. The paper poses more questions than it answers. It discusses a number of principles and visions – however, it lacks information about how services will be provided and by whom; • These changes are being driven too rapidly due to Federal Budget cuts; • An efficient and effective health system must not be at the expense of providing quality health care to the community, or the welfare of employees who provide such services; • Focus on hospital services, rather than prevention and intervention

PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon addressing PSA Members and the public at the Royal Adelaide Hospital

programs which need proper resourcing to keep people out of hospitals.

The PSA will continue to seek further information from Government about these plans.

This will include the impact on jobs, roles and services.

The involvement of PSA members

PSA Vice-President Lesley Hughes providing feedback on Transfomring Health at Flinders Medical Centre

has been invaluable in providing feedback to the Government, and a fully transparent consultative process needs to occur. This will ensure not only that industrial requirements are met, but also that the people delivering services who are in the best position to comment on the reform, are involved at all stages.

PSA Assistant General Secretary Nev Kitchin with members at Modbury Hospital

TRUE FEDERAL BUDGET IMPACT

PRISON CROWDING CRISIS

MEMBER BENEFIT CENTRE

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PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW MARCH/APRIL 2015

Secretary’s Column A TRUE VISION

2015: THE YEAR OF THE LONG KNIVES

By Jan McMahon

By Lindsay Oxlad

There can be no doubt that the dedicated and tireless work of those within the South Australian Public Service is something we can all be proud of.

Despite the immense challenge of increased demand against an environment of budget constraint, PSA members continue to deliver quality, consistent and professional services to the community.

The PSA has, and always will, champion the vital role of the Public Service in our community and we were therefore pleased to hear the Premier’s vision for the Public Service at the opening of the fifty-third Parliament.

It was a vision that reinforced that of the PSA - a vision for a vibrant, committed workforce which is dedicated to ensuring the community has access to the services it both needs, and deserves.

However, the true test lies in the actions that emanate from the speech - in what comes next.

While the PSA proudly stands up for the rights of its members, it also has an important role to play in giving a voice to those in the community, who may not otherwise be heard - the sick, the elderly, the young, the disabled, those in regional and remote areas, and the vulnerable.

The Premier stated full participation in society depends on equal access to services. This, he said, includes access to institutions that guarantee universal education, health and justice.

The PSA believes that can only occur with proper investment in these areas.

Investment in resources, ideas and in the workforce.

The Government has stated the Transforming Health project will ensure all South Australians can get the highest quality of care in our health system.

Whilst this ideal is to be applauded , the PSA and its members cautiously await further details.

It is clear PSA members want the

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best system possible, which can only occur with better targeting of staffing and resources.

Beyond health, the Government has stated it is committed to improving the justice system, from police, prisons, courts, parole board and the legal profession, to the judiciary. Many PSA members employed in these areas have been calling for reforms for many years, and we trust those members will be given the opportunity to participate in discussions about what is needed.

We are still dealing with the fallout from last year’s Federal Budget, the impact of which has been felt in South Australia with cuts to health, education and other areas which will affect the State for decades to come.

Amidst that backdrop, we are still hearing some interest groups such as Business SA calling for cuts to the Public Sector, demonstrating a lack of understanding about how that would impact on the vital services delivered to South Australians and their families.

South Australia need jobs.

South Australians need services.

We need a vision for the Public Service that recognises it as a centrepiece of our community and economy which should be valued.

The Premier’s comments are welcome, however they need to be reflected through all levels of Government and the Public Service.

Chief Executives will be judged by their commitment to these goals, and the actions they take in their agencies to engage with PSA members in the pursuit of them.

A strong and effective community requires a strong and effective public service and the importance of that relationship should not be underestimated.

We look forward to working with South Australians to maintain a public sector we can all be proud of.

Since the beginning of 2015 there has been a steady stream of departures of executives across the public sector ranging from Chief Executives to long serving upper and middle level executives.

While there has been no suggestion that those involved have performed so poorly that they warrant summary dismissal it appears that, through no fault of their own, they have been deemed excess to requirements notwithstanding their accumulated corporate knowledge and experience and their track record in delivering on the government’s policy agenda.

The precise method by which such terminations have occurred ranges from the harsh instant dismissal (with no chance to say farewell to staff) to the more measured job search assistance and support.

Either way the result is the same, and given that most are members of the Senior Executive Service, one has to question the logic in letting go those who have been groomed to be the future leaders in the public sector charged with transforming the service in line with the Government’s Policy for a Modern Public Sector and its High Performance Framework.

How have the events since the beginning of the year reinforced the public sector values of Service, Professionalism, Trust, Respect, Collaboration and Engagement, Honesty and Integrity, Courage and Tenacity and Sustainability?

Why would anyone in the public sector aspire to join the Senior Executive Service when his or her employer clearly

does not value their contribution and is prepared to dismiss them at the drop of a hat?

Why can’t those people be reassigned to other roles in the public sector where their accumulated knowledge and experience can be utilized effectively?

Undoubtedly the business lobby and their vocal cheer squad are rubbing their hands with glee with each new announcement of executive terminations and resignations in the public sector, just as they will equally criticize the government when service levels fall as a consequence of the job cuts and the leadership vacuum that they create.

The best indicator that all is not well in the public sector is when hundreds of public sector workers demand TVSPs during organizational changes within agencies; the indication that a tipping point has been reached and urgent remedial action is needed.

The Commissioner for Public Sector Employment has done the groundwork for that remediation, it is now up to each and every agency Chief Executive to deliver and rejuvenate their agencies so that the Government can truly claim to be an Employer of Choice.

Regardless the Public Service Association will continue to tirelessly represent and advocate for our members and their rights, as it is our members and their colleagues who deliver the services that the community expects and demands from the Government and the public sector.

This includes our members in Executive levels who may be thinking now more than ever that they need the support of the PSA.

SECTOR

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: pgc@cpsu.asn.au 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 48, number 1.

Responsibility for political content in this publication is taken by Peter Christopher, Editor.

Vision Statement THE PSA WILL ACHIEVE THIS BY: IRWYVMRK NSF WIGYVMX] JSV QIQFIVW QIQFIVWLMT MRZSPZIQIRX

The PSA will be a dynamic organisation focused on the needs and aspirations of its members throughout South Australia as the principal trade union representing workers who provide community services to South Australians.

I JJIGXMZI QEREKIQIRX WYTTSVXIH F] XVEMRIH TVSJIWWMSREP WXEJJ G SRXMRYEP MQTVSZIQIRX SJ MXW STIVEXMSRW M QTVSZIQIRX SJ QIQFIVW´ [EKIW ERH [SVOMRK GSRHMXMSRW T VSZMWMSR SJ MRHYWXVMEP WYTTSVX ERH SXLIV ZEPYIH FIRIJMXW XS QIQFIVW T VSQSXMSR SJ XLI ZMXEP VSPI SJ XLI TYFPMG WIGXSV MR XLI IGSRSQ] ERH GSQQYRMX]

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Pathology Jobs National Day Under Threat of Action A proposal to slash pathology services in this State and cut hundreds of jobs will be vigorously opposed by the PSA. An accounting examination of the services of PathologySA by Ernst & Young released late last year recommends an annual savings target of up to $42.7 million and the potential cutting of 332 full time equivalent positions by 2017-18.

It also recommended outsourcing of regional services - since ruled out by the Health Minister.

In a response to this report, the PSA suggests the State Government will not be able to make these cuts and still maintain services to the local health networks.

It is paramount that safety, quality and timeliness of pathology results are maintained and continued heading into the phase of transforming health.

The PSA also opposes any plans to privatise pathology services in this State – pointing to several examples where this has been attempted and failed.

PSA Members’ concerns included that extensive staff cuts would lead to unreasonable workload expectations which will impact on service delivery.

Members also fear reduced staffing and budget will increase delays in

pathology tests, which in turn will delay treatment, endanger patients and increase hospital stay duration and interventions.

The PSA also raised significant concerns about the methodology of the review and reliability of the subsequent outcomes.

The PSA response to the Review states: “Some of the data presented is incorrect, leading to incorrect final figures and erroneous conclusions.”

“It is a concern of PSA members that often where data is not available estimates have been done.”

The PSA response states: “The review, while well intended and necessary, offers unreliable conclusions which in turn appear to be based on incomplete or poorly understood information.

“The report has not been written in a way which facilitates scrutiny and hence is not transparent.

“The review comprehensively fails to deliver on some significant reforms and this has the capacity to render the entire process ineffective.”

The PSA will continue to work with members on this issue for the protection of its members and the vital services they provide.

On Wednesday 4 March 2015, Light Square in Adelaide was transformed into a sea of colour as PSA members along with other unions and their families, rallied against the Federal Government’s attacks on living standards and employment conditions.

The rally was part of a national day of action. Tens of thousands are reported to have participated on the day across Australia.

Assistant General Secretary Nev Kitchin with PSA presence at the National Day of Action Rally

INFO BY EMAIL

FEDERAL WEBSITE CPSU

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 enquiries@cpsu.asn.au with the details and your membership record will be updated.

Attacks on Medicare, the ability to obtain a tertiary qualification, as well as cutting pensions and social security measures are the foundation of our living standards and must be protected.

The PSA is continuing to campaign against the Federal Government’s budget cuts, which will affect all South Australians and their families. Such cuts not only disadvantage us, but will harm future generations.

[[[ GTWY WTWJ EWR EY

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.

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PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW MARCH/APRIL 2015

TRUE FEDERAL BUDGET IMPACT

PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon and Executive Director of WISeR Associate Professor John Spoehr

The Federal Coalition Government’s budget strategy puts already vulnerable households under further financial pressure and is likely to undermine South Australia’s social and economic fabric, a report commissioned by the PSA reveals.

The Report, prepared by the Australian Workplace Innovation and Social Research Centre (WISeR) at the University of Adelaide is titled; “The impact of the 2014-15 Federal Budget on South Australian vulnerable households.”

The study focuses on the impact of the 201415 Federal Budget on three groups of vulnerable South Australian households - single parent families, people on the age pension, and low income couple families with dependent children.

These households have been identified as being amongst the most severely affected by the changes introduced in the Federal Budget.

These groups face an increased risk of economic hardship, increasing from 2017 when all the Federal Budget measures come on stream.

“This study highlights the social and economic contributions made by vulnerable households and in particular by women in caring for children, the sick, the disabled, the elderly and those others who contribute to building sustainable and resilient communities.”

The study combines an analysis of the policy changes with quantitative data from the last Census to provide a detailed profile of each of these groups in South Australia.

The study includes qualitative data of six detailed interviews with people from the three types of households in order to better understand the lived experience of those most affected by these changes.

The study also utilises data and modelling from the National Centre for Social and Economic Modelling (NATSEM) to detail the impact of the Federal Budget measures on each of these vulnerable groups.

“The 2014-15 Federal Budget has been subjected to criticism from a variety of sources.

The criticisms have been of three types,” the study states.

“Firstly, the assumptions of debt and deficit crises that underpin the rationale for its fiscal approach have been criticised.

“Secondly, the Federal Budget approach has been widely characterised as unfair since the cutbacks it contained appear to be directed primarily at the most vulnerable groups in society.

“However, most of the criticism directed at the Federal Budget has been about its perceived inequity. Commentators across a very broad spectrum have pointed out that the Federal Budget’s measures will have an unequal impact

“What is worrying is that the research conducted reveals that, overall, more than 265,000 (29.4%) South Australian families will be worse off in 2017-18 as a result of the Federal Budget.”

Many South Australian’s will feel the impact.

The Report notes: “These Federal Budget measures contain large cuts to health, education, income support and family assistance that will reduce the social safety net for all South Australians. As the social safety net shrinks, risk is shifted to individuals and families, or privatised.

“The Federal Treasurer’s rhetoric about ‘lifters and leaners’ that provides one of the underpinning rationales for his Budget ignores the vast amount of productive, but unpaid, contributions South Australians make to the state’s economic and social well-being.

on the most vulnerable groups in society while having little or no impact on the highest income groups.”

The Report concluded that the total cost of the Federal Budget measures and other Coalition government changes to South Australian households is $2.1 billion in 2014-15. This cost will rise to $4.3 billion in 2017-18. Thus the total impact over the next four years will amount to $14.6 billion.

What is worrying is that the research conducted reveals that, overall, more than 265,000 (29.4%) South Australian families will be worse off in 2017-18 as a result of the Federal Budget. The impact will be felt most severely in areas of socio-economic disadvantage.

The PSA’s commissioning of this important piece of research cuts through the rhetoric to reveal the true impact for South Australian’s, and the result is concerning.

The majority of South Australians will be affected, and the disadvantaged groups will find themselves in an even more precarious position.

The PSA will continue to campaign against the Federal Budget Cuts and highlight publicly the disastrous consequences for our State.

Hitting Our Most Vulnerable SINGLE PARENTS WITH DEPENDENT CHILDREN IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA “Single parents are amongst the most vulnerable groups in South Australian society. According to the 2011 Census there were 70,082 single parent households in South Australia. Of these, 47,301 households comprised single parents with dependent children and these households comprised a total of 130,647 adults and children.

“There were a total of approximately 21,290 single parent families living on incomes below the poverty line in South Australia at the time of the last Census. The combined number of adults and children living below the poverty line in these single parent households was approximately 59,265 persons.

“94.7% of single parent families will be worse off as a result of these measures in 2014-15. It is evident that the impact is more severe on households in the three lowest income quintiles compared to the two highest income quintiles. ”The modelling for the longer term impact again reveals a much more severe impact on single parent families. For those with two dependent children aged four and six years the longer term impact in 2017-18 is a loss of between $1,850-$2,300 per year.”

PERSONS AGED 65 YEARS AND OVER IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA “South Australia has a significantly higher percentage of older persons than other states.

“At the time of the last Census (2011), 194,181 South Australians or 76.9% of those aged 65 and over were in receipt of the age pension.

“Along with single parent households and low income families, persons 65 years and over constitute one of the most vulnerable groups likely to have incomes below the poverty line.

“The 2014-15 Federal Budget included a range of measures that will impact on the current and future generation of aged persons. These measures include changes to the age pension, health care, hospital funding, superannuation, employment, aged care, affordable housing, senior’s concessions and the downscaling of the Human Rights Disability Commissioner position.

“Research by the Council of the Aged (COTA) concludes that changes to age pension indexation will make single pensioners $80 a week worse off in 10 years time.”

LOW INCOME FAMILIES WITH DEPENDENT CHILDREN IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA “The past few decades have seen an increase in the proportion of lower income households in South Australia and a polarisation of income levels and opportunities between richer and poorer households.

“Social and economic polarisation in South Australia is evident particularly in the geographical distribution of low income couple families with children.

“Along with single parent households, low income couples with children constitute one of the most vulnerable groups likely to have incomes below the poverty line.

“The more children in a family, the greater likelihood the family will be living below the poverty line. There were a total of approximately 13,440 couple families with children living on incomes below the poverty line in South Australia at the time of the last Census. The combined number of adults and children living below the poverty line in these couple family households was approximately 56,300 persons.

“Modelling of the Federal Budget’s impact on families with children shows that along with single parents, low income couples with children will bear the brunt of the Coalition’s budget cuts, an indication of the Federal Budget’s unfairness.

“Modelling for the immediate impact of the Federal Budget impact on couple families with dependent children suggests that 50.6% of couples with children will be worse off as a result of these measures.

The mean annual impact amounts to a $432 loss of these households’ income per year.

“The modelling for the longer-term impact (2017-18) reveals a much more severe impact on couples with children on lower incomes. It suggests that by 2017-18 just over 40% of all couples with children will be worse off as a result of these measures.

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PRISON CROWDING CRISIS Massive overcrowding of our State’s prisons is creating a volatile mix which is putting staff and prisoners at risk of violence.

Time and time again, the PSA has warned the Department and the Government of the grave risks of overcrowding.

Recently, the PSA appeared before the South Australian Industrial Relations Commission after DCS proposed to utilise the Adelaide Remand Centre infirmary for overcrowding prisoners.

As the PSA has repeatedly

warned, the Government is creating an extremely dangerous set of circumstances within prisons.

Crowding in cells, overflows into unsuitable locations, and continual movements of prisoners is not acceptable.

New facilities are needed, over and above current infrastructure.

The need for this is extremely urgent, and members are warning that their safety is at risk.

PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said the situation is “unacceptable, and there is a real risk to the health and safety of Correctional Officers caused by a

chronic shortage of bed capacity within the system.”

“The current dispute illustrates the underlying problem which is that the growth in the prisoner population has not been matched by increased capacity in the system.

Until this problem is seriously addressed by the State Government such unsafe practices will continue to escalate.”

The PSA will not stand by while members’ health and safety are put at risk by a failure in Government planning and action.

PSA Corrections Councillors and Worksite Representatives attend the South Australian Industrial Relations Commission

Union Rights Under Attack An extraordinary and improper attack on union rights launched by the Chief Executive of the Department for Correctional Services has been quickly quashed by the PSA. The Chief Executive, in an unprecedented memo to staff, demanded certain employees resign from elected roles within the PSA. The memo was directed at employees performing roles in the Human Resources Directorate of the Department who act as members of the Executive/Board of the Correctional Officers Legal Fund or as elected union representatives.

Dated February 11, it demanded they resign their role with the union by February 18.

PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon immediately

labelled the actions of the Chief Executive as “intimidating” and said: “In issuing this memo, the

directive, stating that the State’s industrial legislation prohibited it.

“Such an attack on fundamental union principles cannot and will not be tolerated, now or in the future.”

Chief Executive has struck at the heart of the principles of Freedom of Association and employees’ rights to organise and advocate on behalf of their colleagues.

“Make no mistake, this is an unacceptable attack on workers’ rights – the right to represent the views and aspirations of their colleagues.

“We have been provided with no justifiable reason as to give rise to such a directive.”

The PSA sought an immediate retraction of the

Later that same day, the PSA was formally advised that the Chief Executive had rescinded his memo.

The PSA welcomed this display of common sense: “The PSA is committed to ensuring its members have the opportunity to participate in PSA activities on behalf of themselves and their colleagues,” Ms McMahon said.

“Such an attack on fundamental union principles cannot and will not be tolerated, now or in the future.”

Election Lessons For SA A series of government changes and a leadership challenge to Prime Minister Tony Abbott should be sounding clear warnings to politicians in South Australia.

In Victoria, a State election was held in late November. This resulted in the coalition minority Government led by Liberal Party Premier Denis Napthine being defeated by the ALP with new Premier Daniel Andrews.

In Queensland, a State election was held on January 31. This resulted in the demise of Campbell Newman and victory to the ALP with Annastacia Palasczuk forming a minority government.

For both States, the issue of massive cuts to public services and jobs were critical issues, as were broken promises and actions which had not been foreshadowed prior to the election.

At a Federal level, broken promises and cuts have played a significant role in the rapidly plunging popularity of Prime Minister Tony Abbott.

He faced a leadership challenge earlier this year as a consequence and his leadership is looking decidedly shaky.

The message to politicians closer to home should be crystal clear.

Cuts to public services and jobs are extremely unpopular with the electorate, as are broken promises.

Proper resourcing of services provided by public sector workers – not outsourced or privatised – is essential for the provision of the things people in this State care about.

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Public Sector Myths Adjunct Professor Rhonda Sharp AM

At last year’s PSA Women’s Conference, Adjunct Professor Rhonda Sharp AM from the University of South Australia gave some insights about some of the neoliberal myths about the public sector.

Below is a summary of the key points she discussed.

Neo-liberalism is a political and economic framing (and ideology) that assumes that our economy and society are best served by maximizing the size, profits and activities of the private sector and minimizing public sector employment and activities and the taxes and expenditures that fund it.

It has framed thinking about the SA public sector through generating 10 myths.

These myths have shaped the work of public servants, its conditions and its value in the community.

1

The public sector is always growing

The SA public sector has undergone increases and decreases in its numbers over the past 20 years but the overall trend has been a reduction in the public sector workforce.

In 1991 there were 115,700 FTE total public sector employees and in 2013 it was 86,257 (Commissioner of Public Sector Employment). Over 22 years the public sector workforce has therefore experienced a decline of 27 percent.

Furthermore, the Government’s 2013-2014 mid-year budget review estimates that the general government workforce will decline by nearly a further 4000 EFTs between 2013 and 2017 or 4.7%.

2

Public servants are paid too much

This view often reflects that there is greater transparency about the pay of public servants than the private sector – the media gets this information and highlights the few at the top who do get relatively high pay.

Nevertheless, only 4.3% of public sector employees earned more than $109,300 (38% of these being women) per annum at June 2013. An informed comparison of the highest paid group is rarely made with the private sector where the top private sector executives have remunerations that run into millions.

The majority of public sector employees are located on the lower ends of the salary scales and are women (who comprise 52% of the total public sector employees in SA).

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A budget deficit signals the government is living beyond its means

Governments aren’t constrained by an end date, have a different role in the economic system than households and issue debt instruments in the form of government bonds. In other words, comparing the government budget to a household is misleading.

The aim of good budget management is normally to aim for the deficits and surpluses to even out over the economic cycle of economic growth and recession (surpluses during booms and deficits during busts). This is longer than any one year budget and does not always fit the 4 year term of government.

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Economic growth by itself will benefit all South Australians

The international research shows that the benefits of economic growth do not automatically trickle down to everyone. The initial distribution of market incomes is fundamental (shaped by laws and regulations around corruption, bankruptcy and so on) as is the government’s role in redistribution through transfer payments and services.

On the basis of the initial distribution of market incomes Australia has the second highest poverty rate (35.5%), after Korea among the 65s and over in the OECD. However when you add in public services and assistance then that rate of poverty among the over 65s falls to about 24% men and 29% for women giving Australia a ranking of 5th worst for the late-2000s.

The public sector is too big

According to the OECD 2012 Report on the Australian Public Sector, the number of public sector employees in Australia, at all levels of government combined, is well below that for all other countries for which comparable figures are available. Government employment accounts for 28 per cent of the workforce compared with the average of 35 per cent.

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The public sector can be cut without undermining services

While the government wages bill can be reduced by workforce reduction strategies, efficiencies in service provision are limited by cost increases such as: service coordination failures loss of corporate memory loss of older worker skills, decreased employee morale and engagement cost shifting to the unpaid household (and to women’s time burdens in particular), the environment and the lowly paid community sector.

Even when efficiencies and productivity gains are possible there is no guarantee that the quality of service provision is maintained.

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Public Sector unions have played a fundamental role in the government setting standards in decent wages and working conditions for the rest of the community.

Business tends to follow rather than lead these standards.

The economic engine is the private sector and the public sector is a burden on the private sector

Historically the SA State has been the central and driving force in the development of the State’s economy by mobilizing the private sector. For example, the industrialization policies of the Playford Liberal government (including the use of the Housing Trust to provide cheaper housing for workers, state ownership of the electricity trust and other incentives to attract corporations such as GM and BHP) were central in promoting economic growth and development in SA, including in the regions.

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Services will increase and prices will decline if activities are transferred to the private sector In reality: markets such as electricity, mineral extraction, media, health, airlines, supermarkets lack competition being dominated by one or two players so they can hike up prices privatising a service means you have to give shareholders a return which can increase prices. privatising is a loss of collective assets and income sources for the public sector once the sale money is spent the criteria for accountability is different in the public and private sectors the ultimate accountability being election for the government but shareholder returns is the accountability for the private sector contracting out incurs administrative costs on the government and service provider.

Economic growth and fairness are incompatible

The Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund is now warning against growth without equity. Christina Lagarde has stated that we ‘cannot look simply at economic growth- we need to ask is this growth inclusive’. She is voicing increasing concern with the austerity policy impact on the European Union.

10 Unions are bad for the economy Unions are seen as distorting the functioning of markets in that wages and working condition are raised above what they would otherwise be in a free labour market where individuals negotiate directly with the employer.

Union negotiations around equal employment opportunities, flexibility, paid and unpaid parental leave, study leave and sick leave have facilitated women’s entry into paid work. Reductions in the public sector impact disproportionately on women’s employment as they comprise the majority of the public sector workforce.

Conclusion The public sector at State and Federal levels has been framed by a particular ideology about the role of government vis-a-vis the market, efficiency vs equity and so on.

This has led to policy approaches favouring downsizing the public sector, privatization and a fetish about surplus budgets, de-unionisation and managerialism of the workforce.

There is increasing evidence that this disadvantages the majority of women whose incomes are lower, have less superannuation for retirement, need assistance with reducing their unpaid work burdens in order to participate in paid work and are more dependent on public services and income assistance.

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Child Protection Royal Commission The PSA has been a firm and consistent advocate for the protection of children in South Australia.

Over many decades, the union has been responsible for improving services and care, and a constant advocate for proper resourcing.

This has included a number of public campaigns and involvement in a string of enquiries, reports and commissions.

The PSA is once again continuing this advocacy role with the current South Australian Royal Commission into Child Protection systems.

The terms of reference from the Royal Commission require the Royal Commission to conduct a “broad inquiry into the operation of these systems.”

protect and improve the conditions and lives of children.”

The PSA submission also reiterates issues raised in previous submissions.

Unfortunately, many of the themes are not new, and the PSA has been calling for these reforms for many years.

There have been many enquiries over the years and the PSA has consistently called for more qualified employees and improved conditions of employment of its members to assist with recruitment and retention.

“The PSA understands that although previous attempts were commenced by Families SA during the past decade towards developing and implementing an appropriate child protection practice framework; child protection standards; a framework for comprehensive professional

The PSA as an organisation also considers that the Rights of the Child are Paramount, and this is the view of our members.

The PSA represents employees in the South Australian Public Sector providing child protection services including social workers, psychologists, clerical workers, Residential Care Workers and Youth Workers.

The PSA, in consultation with members, has made a significant submission to this Royal Commission.

The PSA as an organisation also considers that the Rights of the Child are Paramount, and this is the view of our members.

“That is, while the PSA advocates for its members, the members’ overriding concern is the protection and the best interests of children, and these employees have chosen jobs which enable them to be able to

supervision and a more coherent approach to the on-going professional development of social workers, these areas have largely been neglected and ignored over many years.

“PSA members have consistently raised concerns over the years about insufficient resources, especially trained social workers to carry out required legislative requirements.”

Over the years the PSA has conducted successful campaigns to increase the resourcing for child protection. Sadly the commitments made by government are often not realised because of lack of funding.

A number of suggestions were made in the PSA Submission. s )N PARTICULAR GREATER PUBLICITY should be given to the professional achievements as well as the

difficulties faced by the workers in carrying out their legislated responsibilities. s !NY NEW PROGRAMS DEVELOPED should only occur after full consultation with staff. s !NY NEW PROGRAMS SHOULD minimise structural change, and movements of staff to maintain stability.

s .EED FOR RECRUITMENT AND retention initiatives to retain experienced staff. s 3UPPORT AND SUPERVISION FOR recent graduates.

The PSA will continue to work with members to ensure the key themes of the Submission will translate into meaningful reforms.

PSA Membership – Offering Members More Membership of the PSA brings many rewards one of which is sometimes overlooked - access to the Legal Services Scheme.

$15,000 in compensation, after refunding the legal costs and expenses provided through the Legal Services Scheme. *Not their real name.

In times of need, PSA members have access to expert legal advice which can help them resolve a range of non work related issues.

Two recent cases highlight how the scheme can help you:

Dog Attack

Public Transport Accident Sam* was injured on public transport on his way to work when the driver braked heavily and he was thrown to the front of the bus.

He called the Legal Services Helpline and was reminded that membership of the PSA provided him with Journey Accident Cover.

Sam was referred to a panel solicitor who specialises in personal injury compensation claims.

He received financial assistance to investigate the merits of his claim and to pay for necessary out of pocket expenses, including medical reports.

This help enabled Sam to get the legal advice and representation he needed to win his case. He received

Mel* was attacked by a dog in the street and injured.

Like Sam, she phoned the helpline and was referred to a panel solicitor with expertise in personal injury claims.

The dog’s owner had insurance cover under his building policy. The Legal Services Scheme provided financial assistance for out of pocket expenses, including medical reports, while the solicitor prepared and submitted a claim which was successfully settled out of court.

Mel received $25,000 to compensate her for her injuries. *Not their real name.

These are just two examples where members received much needed help. If you need help with non work related legal problems call the PSA Legal Services Helpline on 1800 088 572

REGIONAL NEWS

PSA Port Lincoln Visit Privatisation of The PSA travelled to Port Lincoln in January visiting a number of sites including Families SA, Services SA, DPTI, Land Services Group, PIRSA and Port Lincoln Prison.

PSA Members discussed issues such as low staffing levels and workloads, the difficulties of attracting staff to country areas, concerns about restructures with the impact on country offices, and concerns about further reductions in staff.

The PSA will continue to ensure these issues remain on the agenda in discussion with agencies.

Regional Pathology Services Dumped The PSA held a phone link up recently with concerned members in regional laboratories regarding the outsourcing of pathology services in regional SA. The privatisation of regional SA pathology was ruled out after strong opposition from community and issues raised in the PSA’s Submission.

The Transcontinental in Port Augusta reported on “Privatisation

of pathology services off the cards,” featuring concerns of PSA members and the opposition of the PSA to any reduction in services to the community.

P8

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW MARCH/APRIL 2015

The Return to Work Act Explained Major changes to workers’ compensation introduced by the Labor government will come into operation from July this year when the Return to Work Act replaces the current WorkCover legislation.

Tightened eligibility along with new limits on compensation and restrictions on medical expenses are key features of the new legislation.

Tighter Eligibility for Compensation

Claims for compensation under the new arrangements will require you to demonstrate your employment was ‘a significant contribution’ to the injury.

For those with psychological injuries it will be necessary to prove that work was ‘the significant contributing factor’. These changes can be expected to result in an increase in claims disputation, and especially so with psychological injuries.

They will also have the effect of stalling the return to work process until claims disputes are resolved. This typically takes many months.

Two Year Limit on Weekly Payments

Under the new arrangements weekly payments will be set at 100% of average pre-injury earnings if there is incapacity for work during the first year and then 90% during the second year.

For some this will be an improvement.

The down side is that if you are seriously injured payments will cease after two years, unless you have a severity rating of 30%Whole Person Impairment (WPI) or more. It is essential to note that the two year clock starts running down from the date of your incapacity.

In the case of a serious injury for which you were off work for 24 consecutive months nothing changes.

You would receive 2 years worth of weekly payments. However, if you had the very same injury with exactly the same aggregate amount of lost time, but were off work for more than one spell you could be significantly disadvantaged.

If, for example, you were initially incapacitated for 3 months, then returned to work for 20 months, only to suffer a recurrence which resulted in a further 5 months off work, you may only be entitled to 4 months of weekly payments – the initial 3 plus the one month prior to the 2 year expiry limit.

This approach is in stark contrast to the current legislation, and that of other states, and is likely to be the source of much injustice where serious injuries result in one or more broken period of incapacity.

Redemptions are one off payments designed to finalise workers’ claims.

They are a feature of the present system and will continue to be so in a somewhat different form under the new legislation.

In a ‘clearing the decks exercise’ during the countdown to July, agencies will selectively offer redemptions to workers on the current scheme with more serious injuries. In the event you are approached, seek sound financial advice before making any decision.

Limited Medical Expenses

Common Law

Entitlements to medical expenses under the new legislation will be wound back. As from July medical expenses will generally cease 12 months after you are no longer entitled to weekly payments, other than in limited circumstances.

This means that medical expenses for most workers will be limited to a maximum of three years. The new deadline arrangements do not apply to therapeutic devices, such as hearing aids needed to maintain a person’s ongoing capacity.

Nor do they apply to future surgical and related services, necessary to your

The RTW Act reintroduces common law damages for injuries caused by employer negligence.

However, to qualify you will need to have an injury with a severity rating of at least 30% WPI. In practice, very few workers will be able to meet this threshold.

Machinery of Government Changes: Consultation Required to Protect Member Conditions A recent South Australian government decision to transfer staff between departments has prompted the PSA to remind the Government of its requirement to consult before, not after, it acts.

The PSA recognises changes to the structure of agencies are a legitimate activity of government.

Further, the PSA understands that many agencies will undergo structural changes to meet government, community or budget requirements.

It is vital, however, that where such changes impact upon PSA members that full consultation occur. This is both a legislative requirement under the provisions of the Public Sector Act 2009 and also required by Enterprise Agreement consultative clauses.

It is not consultation for the PSA

health and capacity, provided that an application for these services is made prior to the 12 month deadline and subsequently accepted by the compensating authority or, on appeal, by the Workers’ Compensation Tribunal.

Other exceptions may also apply if approved by the Return to Work Corporation or where the government introduces specific regulations. As with other aspects of the new legislation, the provisions governing medical expenses are likely to be a major source of claims disputation.

to be advised after the event when it is no longer possible to influence events.

Nor is it acceptable for agencies to progress things with individuals or groups of staff without involving their registered association.

In respect to Machinery of Government changes, the PSA does need to be consulted about changes which impact upon members’ pay and working conditions.

While a recent government decision to transfer Housing SA staff to Renewal SA falls into the ‘Machinery’ category, it does impact upon members’ employment and industrial provisions.

Limiting the protection of members’ rights only for so long as members remain in the transferred position is not acceptable. Government and agencies both need to do better.

Redemptions

Lump Sum Payment for Non-economic Loss

Under the existing legislation, if you suffer a work injury that results in a permanent impairment – other than a psychological injury - you are entitled to a lump sum payment subject to a 5% eligibility threshold. Although there are

some differences in the new legislation the same basic principle applies – impairments deemed more serious result in higher lump sum payments.

Lump Sum Payment for Economic Loss

This is a new entitlement which provides a degree of compensation for the loss of earning capacity that often arises from a permanent impairment.

Entitlement is available if you have a permanent impairment in the 5%29% WPI range. It is additional to any payment received for non-economic loss.

The amount you would actually receive would depend on a formula based on your age, hours worked and the severity of impairment. Young workers, with severe impairments, working full time prior to the injury would receive the highest payments.

Transitional Arrangements

If at 30 June 2015 you are receiving weekly payments, your entitlement will continue for up to a further two years.

If at that time you are receiving 100% of your average pre-injury earnings you will continue to do so until 30 June 2016 if you are unable to return to work and 90% thereafter until the end of June 2017. If you were receiving 90% of your average pre-injury earnings you will continue to do so until 30 June 2016 if unable to return to work, and 80% thereafter until the end of June 2017. If you were receiving 80% you will continue to do so until the end of June 2017 if you are unable to work.

From 1 July 2017 weekly payments will cease for all injured workers affected by the transitional arrangements, other than those who are severely injured and deemed to have a 30% Whole Person Impairment.

DPTI Consultation Failure The Department for Planning, Transport, and Infrastructure, in its attempt to forge ahead with its “rejuvenation” change process, is failing to meet its consultative requirements as outlined within the Enterprise Agreement.

As of late February 2015, DPTI advised that it is looking to offer some 200 Targeted Voluntary Separation Packages (TVSP’s).

This is despite the Chief Executive confirming in mid January 2015, TVPS’s will “only be awarded after our structure has been finalised and following the process agreed to in our enterprise agreements.”

Whilst the South Australian Public Sector Wages Parity Agreement: Salaried 2014 contains consultative requirements, DPTI have failed to adhere to such requirements.

It is unacceptable for the PSA to

discover workplace change following contact from members, in lieu of DPTI meeting its consultative obligations.

While it is understood that DPTI is seeking to implement some 46 reviews as part of its rejuvenation process, each review must meet the consultative requirements.

The PSA has not, and will not tolerate continual breaches of the current enterprise agreement.

The Agreement, as well as the new Determination on redeployment and retraining makes clear reference to the expectation relating to consultation.

The axing of positions during such a “consultative” process is not acceptable and the PSA will continue to take necessary action to protect the jobs of DPTI members as well as the services they provide to the South Australian community.

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW MARCH/APRIL 2015 P9

Members Honoured MS BOBBI JO SAWYER (OAM) MEDAL OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA

MR DARREN JOHN CHAPMAN (AFSM) AUSTRALIAN FIRE SERVICE MEDAL

Ms Sawyer received the medal for service to Indigenous mental health, particularly for her work with women and children.

Mr Chapman has served the community of South Australia for over 38 years with energy, enthusiasm and skill through roles with the Country Fire Service (CFS).

Currently working at the Women’s and Children’s Health Network, SA Health, Ms Sawyer previously held positions as Manager, Anangu, Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands Service; Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (living on site since 2013), and Leading Clinician and Service Manager, since 2006.

As a former Manager, Country Services, Northern Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) she has been an advocate for children’s mental health services, Baxter Detention Centre (coordinated through CAMHS).

This recognition of Ms Sawyer’s work is a great acknowledgement of her tireless contribution in our community, and of her value as a public sector worker.

As State Training Officer in Specialist Firefighting he has extensive experience working with interstate fire services and is recognised as in industry expert in this field.

He has taken a disciplined and professional approach to personal development and training for all firefighters which has enabled the CFS to progress qualifications for its members across all areas of the Public Safety Training Package.

His approach to mentoring of volunteers and staff has been of significant benefit to the CFS and he gives willingly of his time to assist others.

Additionally Mr Chapman is a highly valued volunteer member of the Tea Tree Gully Brigade where his knowledge of incident control is highly valued.

Two PSA members were recently recognised by our nation for their contributions to public life in the Australia Day Honours. The PSA congratulates them on their awards, and thanks them for their service and their long-standing membership of the Association.

What’s new at 122?

After many months of renovations, the PSA Member Benefit Centre has been opened.

The new ground floor centre is a one-stop shop for members seeking assistance or information.

It can provide you with all the details you need to ensure you are making full use of the benefits membership of the Association brings.

In addition to industrial services, the PSA offers members discounts on movie

tickets, metro card top-ups and retail gift cards – now all available over the counter at the new Centre at 122 Pirie Street in the city.

BEFORE

General Secretary Jan McMahon, Assistant General Secretary Neville Kitchin and PSA member Chris Ashton - the first PSA member served in the new Member Benefit Centre

AFTER

In the last financial year, PSA members saved more than $240,000 by making use of these discounts.

Other work on the building – a major asset owned by the PSA – is continuing.

This has included necessary upgrades to elevators and other infrastructure.

In addition a new ground floor

area has been created which will be prime rental space for a future tenant.

The PSA thanks members, staff and visitors for their patience during this process, and is pleased to have improved a major asset which

will

provide

financial

security for the Association for many years to come.

P10 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW MARCH/APRIL 2015

The More Things Change...

The PSA has had a long proud history spanning across 130 years. Edited highlights from the Public Sector Review provide a snapshot into the service as it was 100, 75, 50 and 25 years ago.

100 Years Ago Help for the Needy “The Association has every reason to feel gratified with the result of its efforts in organising the recent ‘boot hunt’.

‘More to come and more wanted.’

Boots are going out of commission every day, and these will be gladly received and utilized if the owners will but take the trouble to bring them to town or notify our President or Secretary that they may be had if called for. Children’s boots are especially needed.”

March 1915, Vol XXI, No. 3

75 Years Ago Workers Educational Association Programme for 1940 “As in every other sphere of life, the war has had its effect on the W.E.A programme for 1940. It has made the necessity for a close examination of our social surroundings more urgent than ever, and the need for clear, unbiased thinking an obligation of everybody.

So we find that causes of war, the impact of war on our lives, the problems of peace, are very much to the fore in a number of classes

for 1940. ...If you want to know more about the crisis facing humanity come to a W.E.A class, discuss vital matters with fellow students and tutors, learn the facts that led up to the present crisis, and become well-informed about events of the day.”

March 1940, Vol. XLVII, No.3W

Competition NEWS

50 Years Ago The Association is very Encouraged Members will be aware from previous publications on the subject of superannuation that, at the present time, this Association is convinced that the provisions of the South Australian Superannuation Fund are the worst of them all. The Association is very encouraged to find that both of the major political parties have given this undertaking to place the South Australian Fund on a par with the other Government Superannuation Funds.

We thank the two major political parties for their undertaking in this regard and, whoever is placed in power, we look forward to the fulfilment of the promise now given.”

March 1965, Vol. 3, No.2 (N.S)

25 Years Ago “Everyone for themselves’ said the elephant as it danced among the chickens. ‘Deregulation’ sounds good but what does it mean?

Deregulating the labour market would mean those that can get massive pay rises or can use their muscle to break the system would.

That would leave most Australians worse off – it’s especially unfair to those already on low incomes. What kind of Australia do we want?

This election, you be the judge.”

March 1990, Vol. 27, No. 2

In the October/November issue of The Review last year, members were invited to display a poster listing 10 Good Reasons to Join the PSA on their workplace notice board and send us a photo of the poster to be in the running to win a prize.

Linda Thompson from the Department of State Development was the lucky winner and received a $50 Woolworth’s discount card from our Member Benefits area. Well done Linda, and thank you for your support.

New Competition This issue, you too could be in the running to win a $50 Woolworths discount voucher.

All you have to do is send us an email at enquiries@ cpsu.asn.au and tell us in 25 words or less why you are a member of the PSA. Good luck! Entries close 30 April 2015

Enjoy a PSA holiday home!

Take advantage of another great PSA member benefit – affordable accommodation at popular South Australian destinations.

The PSA has a number of holiday homes/units available for members to enjoy at affordable rates. Located at Glenelg, Goolwa, Kangaroo Island, Port Lincoln, Port Vincent, Robe and Wirrina, there are 14 self-contained homes/units available.

Homes/units cater for up to six people and are equipped with full-sized stoves and refrigerators, microwave ovens, high definition TVs, blu-ray players, crockery and cutlery.

Standard weekly bookings are from 2.00pm Saturday until 10.00am the following Saturday.

Nightly bookings are available, but conditions apply.

The homes are offered during school holidays on a ballot system.

Off season rates do not apply during school holidays.

Refer to PSA website for details.

Stay Costs High Season : weekly stays (seven nights) $560 (Kangaroo Island) / $455 (All other homes).

Low Season : weekly stays (seven nights) $420 (Kangaroo Island) / $315 (All other homes).

All Year : Nightly rate of $85.00.

Terms and Conditions of Hire / Cancellation Policy For full terms and conditions, along with cancellation requirements, refer to the PSA website: www.cpsu.asn.au Enquiries or Bookings Email: holidayhomes@cpsu.asn.au

Goolwa

Wirrina – above and below

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW MARCH/APRIL 2014 P11

HOUSE AND LAND AT STRATHALBYN (LOT 201)

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE Cast Iron Tub: Claw legs, enamel, original and excellent condition, - $300 ono Please ring Rita on 0423 533 760.

HOUSEBOAT

4 double bedrooms (1 Queen converts to 2 singles), 1 bathroom, separate toilet, carpeted top deck with large storage box.17.3 x 7.1 metres, low maintenance aluminium hulls, Volvo Penta diesel 136 Hp motor, new Yamaha 2400IS generator, new 4 burner BBQ. Spacious kitchen, dining, living area. Many extras, including new Rinnai gas hot water, new evaporative cooling, inverter, battery charger, 6 deep cycle batteries, depth sounder, 12V & 240V lighting, LCD TV, DVD player, extension dining table seats 6 extends to 10, gas/electric fridge, microwave, swim deck, carpeted top deck, boat hitch. Fully furnished including quilts, pillows, crockery, cutlery, safety equipment - everything you need.

Electrical and gas compliant. Grey water compliant. 330 litre fuel tank, 180 litre rain water tank, 700 litre black water tank, 240 litre ice box. Large front and back decks under cover provide plenty of room to relax and socialise and throw your fishing rods in all year round. Everything has been done. Regretful sale, family has multiplied and need a bigger boat!!

You won’t get a better price for a 4 bedroom boat of this size.

PRICE REDUCTION - $160,000 Check out “SUNSET LADY” at www.houseboatsales.com.au

Looking for a change? Here’s your chance to escape to the country!

Check out this lovely house with self-contained studio and land only 5 kms from Strathalbyn. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, plenty of space!!

The main house has been fully renovated. Large country kitchen, lounge, family room, office, 3 bedrooms, 2 sparkling bathrooms and large laundry. Built-ins in all rooms, including the en-suite toilet! The house has slow combustion heating, ducted cooling, as well as reverse cycle air conditioning and ceiling fans. All rooms are good size. The country kitchen is well equipped including Fisher & Paykel 2 drawer dishwasher. The studio has large fully tiled ensuite, kitchen facilities, built in robe & reverse cycle air conditioning and looks out over the large all weather entertaining area, complete with fish pond and built in bird aviary (or shadehouse). There is also a 4 car garage and easy to look after gardens. The land is 64 acres of lovely countryside with amazing uninterrupted all round views to Lake Alexandrina and the rolling hills behind – imagine the kangaroos quietly grazing! There is an 8 bay hay/implement shed and great stock yards. The land is fenced into 7 paddocks of different sizes for your horses, sheep, cattle, goats – whatever you desire! Live your dream! REDUCED PRICE - $599,000. Check us out at www. realestate.com.au 560 Alexandrina Road, Strathalbyn, SA, 5255 LAND AT EDITHBURGH

REAL ESTATE LAND AT STRATHALBYN (LOT 200)

HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION “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. email oceanbreak@dodo.com.au SEACLIFF BEACH HOLIDAY HIDEAWAY Fully furnished, short-term holiday rental available. Located on beach front next to the Seacliff Beach Hotel and close to Brighton and Glenelg this unit has everything a fun time can offer. Will sleep 4 or 5 (if someone is happy to sleep on the couch). Walk across the road to swim or sit on the balcony and watch the sunset - whatever your preferred method of relaxing, this is the place to be. For more information check out http://seacliffbeachholidayhideaway.com/, for rates please contact Di Rankine at enquiry@seacliffbeachholidayhideaway.com KINGFISHER 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 bookings@kingfisherwww.com or contact Cathy on 0412 641404

DE-STRESS IN CHORD Lot/11 Grace Street Edithburgh SA 5583

64 acres of rolling country side only 5 minutes from Strathalbyn with main road frontage, fenced into 6 paddocks. Water connected and power runs through the property. Unequipped bore.

Magnificent views to Lake Alexandrina. Choose your own house site!! $475,000. Check it out at www.realestate.com.au 560 Alexandrina Road.

FOR SALE, Fully renovated, modern, 3 bedroom home in Para Hills. Perfect location, only 100mtrs from bus to city, Salisbury or Tea Tree Plaza. Walking distance to schools and shops (Foodland etc) are only about 300 mtrs away. Lovely open feel, on high side of the road, with views and gentle evening breezes. Please call Keith for further details or inspection - work ph 81821560, home ph 82817024 or email keithcolleen@bigpond.com

Large block 9,717m (over 2 acres) is residential zoning and has a shed on it. With a wide, approximately 17m access off Grace Street this large L-shaped block has power and water. It’s a great block to build on with rural outlook and easy access to town facilities. Shed approximately 20 x 25. This block is located approximately 1KM from the Jetty. An alternative would be to develop as it has subdivision potential. Subdivision plans have been drawn up and available on request. Price reduced to sell $149,000 .Please contact Joe on 0411 659 085 and for more information refer to realestate.com.au LUXURY/CORPORATE RENTAL AVAILABLE FOR SHORT OR LONG TERM RENTAL IN ENCOUNTER BAY SA @$600/week Fully furnished 2 storey/3 bed/2 bath in quiet location with panoramic ocean views over granite island and the bluff. Upstairs kitchen and living/dining with sliding doors which open out onto large deck. 5 min walk to the beach. A/C/security entry/no pets/ contact Sue mobile 0499 637 360

THE AMBASSADOR CARD SOUTH AUSTRALIA DELETIONS AUGE RISTORANTE (CLOSED)

PSA members are welcome at Campbell’s Cash and Carry, North Plympton and Pooraka.

You will need to show The Ambassador Card logo on your Membership Card to the checkout operator.

Not valid for the purchase of liquor.

Have you taken the opportunity to purchase gift cards and save 5% on almost everything?

The Good Guys, BCF, Supercheap Auto, Adrenalin, JB Hi-Fi , Rebel Sport and Priceline, can be purchased by calling The Ambassador Card on 1300 724 477.

Contact PSA for Coles Supermarkets, Woolworths Ltd and Harris Scarfe Gift Cards.

AGL Great discounts on electricity and gas for your home.

Sign up at agl.com.au/AGLVIPPartners and quote ‘AMBASSADOR’ or call AGL Anytime 24/7 on 1300 369 245.

AGL offers you special discounts on electricity and gas.

Even if you’re already with AGL, contact us now to take advantage of these great energy offers for PSA Ambassador Card members.

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

P12 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW MARCH/APRIL 2015

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

M E M B E R S H I P A P P L I C AT I O N F O R M

The Public Service Association of SA Inc

Methods of Payment Please complete one of the following sections

ABN 62 406 330 782

Community & Public Sector Union SA Branch (SPSF Group)

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.

Personal details Title

____________________

Surname _________________________________________________________________

First name/s _________________________________________________________________________________________

To: The Manager

Home address _______________________________________________________________________________________

Name of Credit Union/Financial Institution ____________________________________________________________

Home phone_______________________________ Gender _________________ Date of birth______________

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.

Employment details Dept/agency _________________________________________________________________________________________ Work address

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.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Work phone _______________________________________ Work fax ______________________________________ E-mail _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Full time

Part time

Casual

Signature/s

____________________________________________________________________________________

Date

____________________________________________________________________________________

Total hours worked per week ______________________ Classification (eg ASO 2) ____________________

Member’s name ____________________________________________________________________________________

Occupation _________________________________________ Increment ____________________________________

Address

____________________________________________________________________________________

Annual salary ______________________________________ Referred by __________________________________

Account name

____________________________________________________________________________________

BSB number

___________________________________

PSA Membership I hereby apply to join the Public Service Association of SA and agree to be bound by the rules.

Accounts

CPSU Membership I hereby apply to join the Community and Public Sector Union, State Public Services Federation (SA Branch) and agree to be bound by the rules.

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. I wish to pay quarterly

Signature ______________________________________________________________ Date ___________________

I wish to pay half yearly

I wish to pay annually

Credit Card

I do / do not wish to receive a tax statement (please circle).

If you wish to pay by credit card on a monthly basis, please complete details below.

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.

Please mail your completed application form to: Reply Paid Number 5306, PSA/CPSU SA Branch, GPO Box 2170, Adelaide SA 5001 (no stamp required)

Account number _____________________________

Card number

â–Ąâ–Ąâ–Ąâ–Ą â–Ąâ–Ąâ–Ąâ–Ą â–Ąâ–Ąâ–Ąâ–Ą â–Ąâ–Ąâ–Ąâ–Ą

Cardholder’s name ________________________________________ Expiry date ______________

For any further information call the PSA on: (08) 8205 3200 or freecall 1800 811 457

Card type

Bankcard

Mastercard

Visa

Signature ____________________________________________________________________________________________

PSA TRAINING COURSES AND INFORMATION SESSIONS 2015

RECLASSIFICATION TRAINING COURSES

www.cpsu.asn.au/training-programs

DATE

DAY

TIME

15 April 2015

Wednesday

2:30pm – 5:00pm 5HFODVVL¿FDWLRQ 3DUW

1 July 2015

Wednesday

9:30pm – 4:30pm 5HFODVVL¿FDWLRQ 3DUW

LUNCH ‘N’ LEARNS

COURSE

WORKSITE REPRESENTATIVES TRAINING

DATE

DAY

TIME

TOPIC

16 April 2015

Thursday

12:30pm – 1:30pm

People’s Choice Credit Union

20 April 2015

Monday

12:00pm – 1:00pm

SuperSA – Early Access to Super

8 May 2015

Friday

12:00pm – 2:00pm

13 May 2015

DAY

TRAINING

6 May 2015

Wednesday

Worksite Reps Training Day 1

7 May 205

Thursday

Worksite Reps Training Day 2

SuperSA – My Retirement Pension

20 May 2015

Wednesday

Worksite Reps Follow Up

Wednesday 12:30pm – 1:30pm

Health Partners

23 June 2015

Tuesday

Negotiating Skills

21 May 2015

Thursday

12:30pm – 1:30pm

People’s Choice Credit Union

8 July 2015

Wednesday

Worksite Reps Training Day 1

16 June 2015

Tuesday

12:00pm – 1:00pm

SuperSA – Sort, Grow, Know

9 July 2015

Thursday

Worksite Reps Training Day 2

16 July 2015

Thursday

12:00pm – 2:00pm

SuperSA – My Retirement Triple S

22 July 2015

Wednesday

Worksite Reps Follow Up

Review

DATE

Review

s 0UBLISHED SIX TIMES A YEAR

PUBLIC

SECTOR

www.cpsu.as n.au

s &ULL COLOUR PAGES s $IRECT MAILED

s 2EGULAR FEATURES s 4RAVEL AND ENTERTAINMENT

VOTE CO UNT MARCH/AP A

RIL 2014

pushing all sides hard to ensure they clearly state their plans and to underst including their on issues and will be distribu how their preferences vision for sector, job the public ted. sheddin This election industrial relation g, service cuts and will s philosophy to South Austral make a difference this election ahead of ia and will . the workin impact g lives and The answer future of PSA s contained members. within this issue will show how We forthco know parties have ming the that the public been. a vital part sector is their own conclus Members can draw of our State, ions. services to providing people and These questio efďŹ cient govern business, ns were put the Liberal to both ance and employ and Labor at a time of ment parties, and to the minor uncertainty, together with parties as infrastructure. the role and importance of the Voters – includi cannot be overloo Legislative Council ng PSA membe ked. should not rs – accept The PSA has party the sugges from any political long been a campaigner for a strong tion that they and told after will be the election house as a House independent upper what will done. of Review. be The PSA has It is vital for long advoca it is best that ted that us to clearly a party’s intentio whichever note what It’s now crunc party holds Government ns are before h time for should not for it and we State electio the must not accept we vote control of the also have Inside there n.

Legislative in the dark. being kept is an “Electi Council.

With just days on Special�

The aberrat – 5 pages devoted to ions in to go before With that have to head the recent Federal Electio questions put in we all to the parties to the polls, pushed as hard mind, the PSA has n where some about their this issue of The Review were elected Senators as we can for views and intentions provides some almost by mistake to the regardi reveal parties ng the public their intentio extra into how the unusual prefere due to and service ns to membe parties are thinkin insight sector through their nce movem s. rs ents should be noted. you to decide responses to g to help our questio who will get as revealed The PSA – ns in this issue. your vote. which is not The PSA with any politica afďŹ liated urges membe We ask that some extra rs to pay members conside l entity – attention to has been answers – r these or lack of their voting intentions them – and for the Legisla future implica their tive Counci tions when l they approa the ballot box. ch The PSA is seeking an in an Enterpr outcome The PSA has ise s )MPROVEMENTS T lodged a new a total packag Agreement which as O CLASSIlCATION and Cond Wages e provides No real answer increments.

S AND itions Claim beneďŹ ts to members includi worthwhile accordance in before the people s can be determined with Issues such ng: s ! FAIR AND REAS as the date current Parity the terms of the this State, but decide who will lead ONABLE SALARY I of effect for payment of for all membe in the interim NCREASE Agreement. the initial and rs; the PSA current agreem The has been seeking answer subsequent increase and s 0ROTECTION O ent expires the life of the s to matters policy from F EXISTING COND June 2014, on 30 of Agreement both major will also be ITIONS s *OB SECURITY and allows parties. negotiated.

Negotiations a new claim to be s )MPROVEMENTS T will comme It will be underp lodged any earnest nce in O CONDITIONS AN inned by extensi after March time after January 1 this allowances; detail during D ve date - as matters 15 – the election year. the course of negotiations. s !GENCY C cannot be The PSA progressed LASSIlCATION SP Council agreed during the caretak formally ECIlC schedules to approach at to this er period. deal with particu its January AUSTERITY requirements; lar meeting and claim was lodged the .

PUBLIC

FAILS

ELECTION SPECIAL

Pages 5-9

2011 August 2014 DECEMBER

The PSA expects proper resourcing of the public sector, but recognises that the Budget has not made signiďŹ cant new job cuts. The 4,105 jobs to be cut by 2018, while creating difďŹ culties for members and service provision, are at least in the order of the Government’s pre-election commitment.

This comes in the wake of a horror Federal Budget handed down by the Abbott Coalition Government in May, which slashed spending massively and hit South Australia hard.

The shockwaves from that are still being felt, and

EB 2014 Pa rity Agreeme nt Mem

inevitably inuenced the content of the latest State Budget.

The impact of the Federal Budget is widespread, but spending on Health and Education alone took a projected $8 billion hit. The State Government is meeting with PSA, other unions and community organisations to explore options for managing the effect of the federal funding cuts.

The State Budget also made provision for pay increases of 2.5% pa, with any increase above that amount to be through productivity improvements.

The PSA will continue to consult with members over the Budget impact.

OCTOBER/NOV

EMBER 2014

permanent employe es by stating they are redundant while to employ thousand they continue s of contract workers.

The PSA strongly s CONTINUATION opposed any OF hSAVED CLAUSESv such change in schedules.

policy and secured a commitment The draft Agreem that the no forced redundancy policy ent reecting the offer can be will continue until found on the PSA the certiďŹ cation website. of a new Enterpri Agreement. se The PSA remains committed Furthermore, to a Public Sector the PSA has Agreement has been, and continues to Key elements of meaningful services that provides nominal expiry a be, committed the offer included date of 30 June to to the those establishment : most s A TWO YEAR !GREEM in need and acknowl 2014, but continue of a edges member s to remain in ENT Government processrobust, whole of have identiďŹ e force until the s s ANNUAL INCREASE d the seeking new Agreement S OF FROM addition that ongoing employe which ensures of certiďŹ ed. is ďŹ rst full pay al wage increase period after s must not excess are afforded es who become be at the cost of 1 /CTOBER

On 10 every further opportunity September AND job losses. to be placed.

2014, Another key element PSA Worksite s INTRODUCTION Put simply, the OF A NEW for members PSA is steadfastly in metropolitan Representatives and training policy REDEPLOYMENT is the achievement of a focused on keeping and regional members in ongoing security of employm provision for South Australi s PROTECTION employment. ent. a, endorsed OF EXISTING !WARD Following prelimin the This was a threshol conditions ary discussions d issue. with the new PSA did not Commis negotiate away Public Sector Employm sioner for tenure. ent, a binding Determination Unrelated to will be introduc EB negotiations, which ed, the Government will include and extensive consultation with went to the election the Opposition the PSA. would not continuesaying that they The PSA will ensure that any ‘no forced redunda their previous Determination will address retrainin ncy’ policies.

This followed an appropriate career g, earlier Governm transitioning and Clearly each of these needs far ent announcement case managem in mid 2013, ent throughout the which more detail and deďŹ nition of how was mirrored by redeployment A unanimou the Opposition. process. It remains they will be achieved. What furthers vote by metropolitan worksite PSA has negotiat the PSA’s position representatives ed a robust policy initiatives may come will that any excess redeployment employees who process to want to remain become clearer in future. make sure that agencies the Public Sector in cannot get rid ought to be placed Also clearly, they will each of within ongoing employment. involve work conducted by a public

ber feedback

State Budget The State Budget has been delivered, and cautiously accepted by the PSA.

provided

A draft Parity Enterp rise Government’s Agreement was offer as a suitable presented to basis for developi the PSA on 21 ng an Enterpri October 2014.

Agreement. It se acknowledged The draft Agreem at the time that the offer ent will be was subjec t to context of a challengprovided in the a ballot from ing economic Wedne sday environment and 29 Octobe r signiďŹ cant funding the removal of Wednesday 12 November 2014. through Federal budget cuts.

The current

–

Close Call for Government The outcome of the recent State Election surprised many, but provides stability for public sector workers and the community.

Job cuts under the re-elected Government of Premier Jay Weatherill will impact on services and this will continue to be a point of contention.

The Government went to the polls with seven broad policy headlines: Realising the beneďŹ ts of the mining boom for all; Every chance for every child; Growing advanced manufacturing; An affordable place to live; Safe communities, healthy neighbourhoods; Premium food and wine from our clean environment; Creating a vibrant city.

Premier Weatherill at a recent rally to oppose federal health cuts

Mid Year Bud get review on

its way

The PSA sector which is continually beingconven ed a of population diminished in size as our key public sector meeting POINT PLANv FOR OUR ECONOM IC FUTURE unions in continues to grow. late Septem Importantly, the PSA sought and ber, attended How this doesn’t add up is clear by was provided a commitment Premie r Jay from the Premier for discussio to the PSA and should be clear to Weatherill. ns in the lead up The meeting to the release of the Government. covered a range the Mid Year Budget of issues Review. including Enterpri The PSA congratulates Bargaining,Jay se Federal Budget The opportun Weatherill and his Government on impacts, ity for the PSA Workcover Review, have prelimin to their re-election andMid looks forward and the upcomin ary g Year Budget Review. the Premier and discussions with to real negotiations and a positive Treasure The Premier spoke r on proposals that future for our State providing broadly to the potentially impact any attending the Public Sector on properly resourced services tounion our leaders, addressi and the services it HIS VISION FOR ng provides THE 3TATE AND community. The PSA will continue HIS hTEN commun to those most in need in the ity and their families to campaign for these resources. is vital.

PSA AGM EB NEGOTIATIONS UNDERWAY

Page 3

Page 10

SECTOR

PUBLIC

SECTOR

www.cpsu.asn. au

JUNE/JULY 2014

PS FIRE E

Page 4

SECTOR

www.cpsu.asn.au

EB Cla im

ASSISTANC

s .EWS AND VIEWS

ReviewReview Review PUBLIC

MEDICAL IMAGING WORKLOADS

Page 6

SSO RIVERLAND CONFERENCE

Page 7

Page 3

Jan McMahon, Lindsay

SAVAGE FEDERAL BUDGET CUTS

Page 5

NEW POSTER COMPETITION

Page 9

www.cpsu.asn.au

EB Result to A pay rise backdated October, working conditions either retained or improved and services shielded.

for by That is the outcome voted Enterprise members in the recent Agreement ballot.

PLG 7KH YRWH ZDV ¿QDOLVHG LQ November with 72% support. new Key elements of the Agreement are: VKRUWHU \HDU $JUHHPHQW ‡ ,W LV D WZR PSA than normal as sought by the Q U ÀH[LELOLW\ DQG D WR SURYLGH JUHDWH ability to negotiate sooner; DJHV RYHU WKH OLIH ‡ LQFUHDVH LQ Z

RI WKH $JUHHPHQW 7KH ÂżUVW 1 this will be back paid to October RQ \HDU 6XEVHTXHQW ULVHV RI

QG ¿UVW SD\ 2FWREHU D day on or after); ‡ 1R ORVV RI $ZDUG FRQGLWLRQV RU VDYHG clauses; PDGH LQ ‡ 0DLQWHQDQFH RI DOO JDLQV the past;

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DQG ,Q RYHU D KXQGUHG PHHWLQJV ZLWK EULH¿QJV KHOG E\ WKH 36$ State – the members across the city and QRW PHVVDJH ZDV FOHDU 0HPEHUV ZHUH FHV SUHSDUHG WR VDFUL¿FH MREV DQG VHUYL

for a greater pay rise. have During the past year we Coalition witnessed the Federal millions Government slash hundreds of Budget. of dollars from the State ZLOO EH 7KH ÂżQDQFLDO ORVV WR WKH VWDWH V UHĂ€HFWHG LQ WKH SURYLVLRQ RI VHUYLFH able Despite this, the PSA has been in the losses job further to prevent on 2014 State Budget and has focused most in maintaining services for those need in our community.

0LQG 7KH DV VXFK 36$ FDPSDLJQV that Gap, have clearly demonstrated in service job cuts will inevitably result about cuts. They have revealed the truth State, this in numbers sector public LQ ZKLFK KDYH GHFOLQHG VLJQLÂżFDQWO\ the reality real terms over time against of a growing population.

H 7KH 36$ ZLOO FRQWLQXH WR ÂżJKW LQ WK jobs and years ahead for protection of

McMahon signs the new PSA General Secretary Jan PSA Assistant General Agreement with (left to right) President Lindsay Oxlad Secretary Nev Kitchin, PSA Officer Peter Christopher and PSA Chief Industrial

tes victories “This Agreement consolida of the past and hard won entitlements the future.� and provides protection for

services.

The training and redeployment PHDQV 'HWHUPLQDWLRQ LV D VLJQL¿FDQW employees. the future to ensure this protection into This was an Agreement negotiated D WLPH RI for members. ¿UPO\ E\ WKH 36$ GXULQJ ZKLFK ,W QRZ SURYLGHV VRPHWKLQJ great economic uncertainty. ¹ D VHWWOHG VLPLODU KDV QHYHU H[LVWHG EHIRUH 7KH H[SHULHQFH RI – process to properly deal with employees negotiations interstate and nationally GHHPHG ³H[FHVV´ cuts and

with massive job cuts, service ,W ZLOO SURYLGH D PHDQV WR ¿QG WKHP – reveal pay freezes or minimal rises the new and effective work within the success of this negotiation. turns public sector – a sector which consolidates Agreement This year yet each staff of thousands over workers victories and hard won entitlements only has a couple of hundred for of the past and provides protection GHHPHG ³H[FHVV´ the future.

All previously won work protections ,W FUHDWHV DQQXDO ZDJH LQFUHDVHV remain in place. This is an additional without cuts to jobs and services.

Oxlad and Premier Jay Weatherill

safety net for all.

The PSA believes members that is have achieved an Agreement reasonable in the budget climate.

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H/AP

2014 YEAR IN REVIEW

2014

YEAR IN REV

N

challenges moving forward.

Despite misinformation circulated Agreement by some organisations, this SURYLGHV UHDO EHQHÂżWV DQG SURWHFWLRQV create the The Agreement did not 36$ SUREOHP IRU H[FHVV HPSOR\HHV EXW to ensure has negotiated a robust process WKH\ WKDW LI HPSOR\HHV EHFRPH H[FHVV are found alternative work.

NATIONAL

Review 10 Good Reasons

1.

Better Wages and Conditions.

To Join The PSA

conditions than People who non-union members. belong non-union members.

Union members to unions have better wages on average earn 15% more and Protect Your than Entitlements. leave, sick leave, Unions fought long service leave payments, for and maintained - overtime maximum working maternity leave, rates, annual hours, compulsory union training leave. PSA membershipsuperannuation, equalleave loading, penalty rates, service leave pay for women protects these entitlements and trade were cut and entitlements PSA campaigned recreational for you. When and won reinstatement leave long and won its case in the High of leave loading loading abolished in 2010, Court. the and a new retention 3. provision, Better Workplace Health and safety conditions.

Safety. Unionised The PSA works workplaces have risks to their to ensure that health and safety. better health employers protect their employees and 4.

Comprehensive from Industrial Advice. representation Members from specialist Our Member PSA staff includingcan access expert industrial Rights Hotline advice and Workplace Health Monday to Friday is a dedicated and Safety matters. phone line from 9am to for member 5pm. enquiries, available 5.

Save Money.

Members enjoy Ambassador a wide range Card at shops, of benefits restaurants, money with and savings hotels and discounted health through the gift cards, metro insurance through more. PSA membership cards and movie also saves you Health Partners, throughout tickets. Take Coles and Woolworths S.A. The homes advantage are available membership to rent at budget of our holiday homes fees are tax deductible located rates for members too !

6. only. Union Influence Policy.

The PSA has of employment. successfully campaigned PSA to protect and workplace, agency members have the opportunity improve conditions or political level to The PSA commissions through industrial contribute and influence issues at a forums and in order to promote research on public sector meetings with policy issues and protect and makes Budget Ministers. the role of the 7. public sector. submissions Stay Informed.

PSA members working environment. are provided with up to Stay informed Workplace with our regular date information about Reps and contacts, their communications website updates, quarterly ‘Review’ on topics that network of magazine and are important agency specific to you.

8.

Legal Advice & Assistance. and family mediation PSA members have access services through covers a number to seek legal our free Legal advice, assistance of non work Services Scheme. related areas.

Legal representation 9.

Journey Accident Cover. PSA membership minute that you provides free $1,200 per week join, through our Journey Accident Cover. income protection from for up to 104 the weeks plus death You will be covered for up 10. Strength and disability to insurance up In Numbers. to $100,000.

Belonging to positive changes a union helps to empower across the public at their workplace. Be a part of a st members t sector JOIN

2.

PUBLIC

FAMILIES STAFF: URGENT NEED

tss uts

er use of er with better ement.� ata management.� tary Jan l Secretary to the med this input the nity debate about sector and the issues

year was

Federall Health Cuts Hurt Fed

are t these messages stands he community and her cuts to jobs id. ebate on the positive we y that I mean what public nuinely improve lead to better outcomes people particularly the

Allied Health Survey

training and development,

and

The theme this legal rights and obligations. by annual opened The PSA’s tenth The event was Officers’ h!CTION FOR 2ECOGNITIONv at the PSA General Secretary Jan School Services Topics discussed held in included SSO McMahon.

(SSO) Conference an idea another conference and selection What started as August was into recruitment event for increments, by the PSA has evolved SSO successful policy, event on the a well-known members. sector calendar

Allied Health Professional have members been surveyed by the PSA as part of ongoing preparations for b a rga i n i n g enterprise negotiations.

opens Jan McMahon

The survey sought members’ views on a range of subjects and their relative importance.

The information gathered by the PSA from the survey will assist future EB negotiations.

This issues of job security, workloads, country incentives and career paths rated very highly with AHP members Other key matters included improve d professional development, higher qualifications and recognition of excellence, backďŹ lling while on leave, enhanced work level definitions and a peer panel process of AHP#3 specialisation.

the SSO Conference

Tonkin and Margaret

So

sig education promotes and that actively to work recognises the valuable F SSOs do. on a The PSA has worked over the past number of issues some great th year and achieved F outcomes for members. year, this As of February T have been 278 SSO positions permanent – a converted to renowned great win in a sector contract and for part-time, casual work. have members Many increases pay received and through new increments Up to classiďŹ cation levels. have been 700 applications paid the new processed and of SSO1 top pay increment and SSO2. negotiating In addition to PSA has the new level, the individual assisted many successful members with their submissions.

or helps.�

(left)

ELE SPE With the State Electi clock now rapidly ap March 15 deadline, the to present this Election S members and their fa head to the polls.

The public sector is a of our State’s communit is always a hot topic of negotiation at election t Jobs and services to

are issues which affect population grows and ages. fruitthis in mind, fo bore With blessings – local job losses of 800 trainee positions also year the PSA has bee The Federal Government Budget cuts had a massive impact on health 2014 has been a year of mixed The PSA sponsored creation every available opport funding, leading to a rally on the stepsCoalition of Parliament House on 4 June starting their careers.

Federal amid averted to essential questions f this year with the first 200 trainees and service cuts largely to their view due about St HQ, parties to tip our State over the edge. redevelopment of our Pirie Budget cuts which threaten PSA Councillors

PSA Councillors

bank

ED l ny

Y on

PED

s nce

TIONS

Page 4 &5

p

al d

Au

This positive outcome

follows

OfďŹ cers which attention.

agreement high with overow environment, without In a historic doubled secure and DCS, all-time threat of job losses. between the PSA feedback, prisoners from already to stored in the following key member up cells being The PSA is continuing to including 49 jobs was the urgent need temporary locations the threat to cut station advocate replaced with prison facilities metropolitan police removed and address current to ensure to genuinely holding cells. a commitment and and infrastructure of our strategies to consult on future The overcrowding, cuts, the safety and securityinto the prison planned job both now and ensure a cost effective placing the originallya dangerous working prisons, service, without created Correctional future. and the public safety of OfďŹ cers environment for at risk.

2014

R REVIEW OCTOBER/NOVEMBER

res

of

ec

th

needed urgent

for increases initial Depar tment months of signiďŹ cant The The Department’s Ser vices’ in prisoner numbers and the cut 49 jobs decision to Cor rectional the chronic cut 49 subsequent massive pressure failed to address intention to O ff i c e r placed on Correctional OfďŹ cers. overcrowding that continues to Correctional of the PSA within the State’s a State The intervention of be prevalent positions to fund target occurred as a direct result from prisons.

Government savings reached NOT BE grave concerns resulting The agreement populations OF MILLION WILL PSA and DCS increasing prison between the PSA shrinkage. pursued following positive discussions at a time of budget is at an enables regarding a safe and intervention.

Prison occupancy to occur

VAGE FEDERAL BUDGET

ANTI UK milar stunt erity

sector and the services This year has also seen the We also sought the be reopened very soon.

Members of the Legisl orPeople’s House – b campaigns at a State and agencythe likelihood that a some our These efforts, and the many and the commitment of our Staff department level, have required Members. forward effort and their care and look We thank all of them for their in the year ahead. to working with them in union

C

The Pub has, consiste advocate for Fam

PUBLIC SECTOR

Monte Leveringt

Prison Jobs Win

ts sis ught

MENTS tinue beral ower.

Monte Leverington

b Wi

pay Agreement, with reasonable The recently concluded Enterprise hard won benefits, was a toughly rises and preservation of negotiated outcome. years. for us to move into the coming It provides a position of strength growth in positive relations Other positives saw a continuing with our Mind The Gap campaign between the PSA and Governmentfor services and jobs as our State need serving as a reminder of the

ns, ts

Page 3

P SSO CONFERENCE T R

SECTOR PRISON OFFICERS’ CUTS

and programs.

Health of such services The Transforming to South The implications managed process, being project not just today, shortly deliver Australia are huge,

by SA Health, will based on the but for future generations. a discussion paper, that the of the It is for this reason analysis and reections (Medical, research three clinical groups PSA has commissioned of ScientiďŹ c Nursing/Midwifery and The slashing of billions the Australian Workplace PSA has from education, and Allied Health). The dollars from health, and Social Research the guiding Innovation have a direct of been advised that and welfare will is to Centre of the University in need pillar behind this project impact on those most FOR CARE FOR Adelaide. whether it hDESCRIBE PRINCIPLES in our community, part, will the The research, in ALL OF THE 3TATE v be families, the disabled, and future Federal youth and examine, the current Notwithstanding, the aged, the unemployed, – and present for impact on a typical family Budgets cuts, in their the frail. The implications a reduction to educational particularly the form, will result in how the reduction services are real, and appropriate to the community and SAVAGE CUTS OF MILLION OVER of services between opportunities hit. budget. further job cuts. The gap four years to the health health care services will and Federal a growing and ageing population As a result of the PSA members have, need to be and the services that Government has to strive society is Budget, the State will, always continue provided in a civilised a number of services for been forced to review to provide the best growing. prior to Federal cuts will its services. For example, those most in need.

Make no mistake, job SA Health made it people, the Federal Budget, Budget 2014 has virtually equal service cuts. Real real to be had commenced examination doing real jobs, and providing impossible for this outcome model, This will of its service delivery not only for the present, value are under threat. has for those achieved, however, this transformation have devastating results decades to come. a result of the abolition but for been accelerated as who can least afford the Federal Budget.

tax Spending cuts and on hikes are starting to bite ordinary South Australians and their families.

t Fights Federal

Cuts

W I

Job Losses Hurt The gap between jobs and services is widening.

And with the Government’s more “generousâ€? targeted voluntary separation packages (TVSPs) reducing in value from July 1 this year, the jobs lost by this date have been signiďŹ cant.

The Government 2013 Mid Year Budget Review set a target of 3,800 fewer jobs between 2013-2017, to be achieved by natural attrition and TVSPs. The loss of all of these staff was

proposed to be phased in, but the fears of a rush for the door before the TVSPs halved from July has been realised.

This will lead to inevitable changes in work structures and ows. Workload pressures will be monitored by the PSA as departments will try to squeeze more from less.

Corporate knowledge and services clearly will diminish as older, nearretirement age staff were tempted by greater “golden handshake� departure packages.

fall. The pack g improvement modest but importantdependents of for in entitlements fatal injuries. workers who suffer

The PSA jobs watch (on the “Mind the Gap� section of the PSA website) reveals more than 1800 staff have already been lost to the public sector.

The actual number is much higher when natural attrition is factored in.

Because of the very nature of voluntary separation packages, there can be no true planning for the impact these job losses will have because, in theory, anyone from any department – or everyone from one department – is allowed to volunteer.

How the losses impact workows and structures will need to be carefully monitored in the wake of staff departures. Members are encouraged to keep worksite representatives fully informed of any areas of concern as reality bites.

The PSA will continue to ďŹ ght against cuts.

Similarly, the negative impact on services will be monitored and our community will be kept informed about how they are being cut and reduced.

injured a the continue under claims which In the case of this new legislation.

Coober Pedy

have changes. These been legislative wide spread media sometimes PSA received and were useful in In what has debate, the has seen a Federal heated public for a coverage a spotlight on issues The past year election, as well a to advocate and as shining public sector election, a State commence for a continues public sector for affecting the well-resourced call as negotiations continue to vocal community services.

Agreement and lobby groups been new Parity Enterprise new members PSA has cuts. The Recruiting In the Annual by PSA and several other agreements. these opposing proud and development particularly in challenging at the meeting through our the training pres The PSA is presented Representatives hundreds of views, particularly Jan McMahon, of Worksite Gen General Secretaryprovided on the of helping create over four h-IND 4HE 'APv CAMPAIGN be an important was has continued continues to trainee positions ability to su a summary over the past new of the PSA’s The Association of the Government’s to public debate component union’s highlights uni years as part outcomes. initiative. contribution research successfully deliver on Sector Renewal started its year. busy Public yea and trainees have by commissioning been another submissions forward The ďŹ rst 200 In what has and we look and providing members, results policy and to the public comments on major been their careers year for PSA ye contributions efforts have level to their of ccampaign coming years. at a Government sector in the realised real worksites. and an at individual

annual general The PSA’s held in August. meet meeting was Report,

y Pre and associated entitled to medical

Visit

REVIEW OCTOBER/NOVEMBER

PSA AGM P

OfďŹ cer Josie Barbaro and Senior Industrial show Families SA, Peter Christopher October. These photos Chief Industrial OfďŹ cer in Coober Pedy during the Hospital. visited members Corrections and Housing SA, Community

PSA General

Secretary

Jan McMahon

addresses

T

the AGM

g

This PSA of represen meeting Governm of our South A Thes regular through campa

CONFERENCE

Ch –P

This year’s PS Conference attr number of showing tha issues in the continue to be r

4HE THEME WAS h7 MOST OF CHANGING TIM It was an approp the changes public s faced over many yea change Whilst challenges, it ca opportunities. Wh certainty during tim support going forwar of other union memb As women workers, crucial.

A 2011 ACTU W Census survey foun and family was th issue, behind a wage and women.

The conference w Minister for the Pub Dr Susan Close MP. Members were w General Secretary who gave a presen snapshot of women and how they are em some insight into w drive policy.

Win Hosp Action by P has ended practices in th Department McEwin Hosp Management h reduce administrat a week in the dep 24/7 operation.

This led to unre and fears about me and safety.

Meetings and c management failed satisfactory outco advised they could and shift patterns to perform.

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