PSA Review Dec 2013

Review PUBLIC

SECTOR

www.cpsu.asn.au

DECEMBER 2013

Election Countdown Time For Both Parties To State Their Case The countdown is on for the next State election, which is now less than four months away.

While both parties are meeting regularly with the PSA and delivering messages they hope will provide some comfort, neither is yet to commit to anything of real substance.

Over recent months, the PSA has been seeking assurances and answers from the highest level of Government and Opposition.

The leaders of both sides have met with the PSA Council.

Conciliatory statements have been delivered, but as yet neither party has delivered a firm policy position on a broad range of topics vital to the Public Sector.

The tens of thousands of hard working, skilled, public sector workers deserve better.

They deserve to know what the

major parties plan for jobs and services.

With the clock ticking, the PSA is now seeking, as a matter of priority, concrete answers on the issues it considers critical to both its members and the wider community.

The PSA is specifically seeking pre-election commitments from Government and Opposition that they will: 1. Invest in our state’s future by employing trainees and graduates, while making no further cuts to jobs and services.

2. As SA’s biggest employer lead the way for other employers by maintaining job security.

3. Provide fair and reasonable wages outcomes and protection of existing conditions.

4. Rule out privatisation, including through outsourcing

and the use of Social Impact Bonds.

Direct questions will be placed to both sides and concrete answers expected. A failure to respond, to provide the required transparency or to give adequate detail, will be communicated broadly in the leadup to the election, so that all South Australians can make an informed choice when they go to the polls.

The PSA firmly believes these issues must be addressed to ensure the public sector retains the expertise and experience required to meet the challenges of service delivery into the future.

We all need to know how our growing and ageing population will have its needs met.

After all, cuts to jobs are cuts to services, and the gap between those needing help, and those receiving it, continues to grow ever wider.

Fight For The People’s House The role and impartiality of the Legislative Council – the People’s House – is once again under threat.

voters elect their representatives is a potential problem for the minor parties and independents who have always played a vital role in our democracy.

from attempts to abolish it.

Moves by the State Government to change the method by which

The PSA has fought hard before to save the Legislative Council

This latest proposed change will be monitored closely.

TRUE COST OF COMMUNITY HEALTH CUTS

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

That fight included media campaigning, rallying, vocal demonstrations of support and creation of a video.

South East Meetings PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon met with members and Worksite Reps during a recent visit to the South-East.

Scheduled meetings were held in Mt Gambier and Naracoorte with informal meetings held with other members in other local centres.

A wide variety of concerns

and issues were canvassed and a general concern was noted about a decline in services.

“Workloads are increasing, and passionate staff told us how they are pushing themselves harder and harder on behalf of their community to provide vital services,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.

The State Government is using the outcome of the Senate election at a Federal level as a reason to change voting methods at a State level.

The PSA believes this potentially diminishes the role of minor parties

24/7 CARE NEEDED FOR YOUTHS

Forestry EB Win

Page 5

Page 6&7

Prolonged negotiations have resulted in a positive EB win for Forestry members. Over the past 14 months, the PSA worked with other unions to negotiate a good faith agreement with Forestry SA management.

The PSA steadfastly sought an outcome no less than the agreement achieved in the parity Public Sector Enterprise Agreement achieved last year.

Earlier this year management delivered a draft agreement which fell far short of this goal.

It was unanimously decried by unions and the PSA campaigned actively for members to vote “NO”.

At that ballot 91% did vote “NO” and that management-driven agreement was defeated.

Negotiation resumed and subsequently all disputed matters were resolved.

A revised agreement was submitted to staff for ballot and it received overwhelming support, with the PSA urging members to vote “YES”.

This was a good outcome for members who should be congratulated for their persistence.

They had the courage to say no, and stood up for their rights.

Page 9

.........continued on page 8

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PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2013

Secretary’s Column COMMITMENTS SOUGHT

WHAT WE NEED IS STRONG LEADERSHIP NOT HYPE

By Jan McMahon

By Lindsay Oxlad

A

s the peak representative body for the public service, which is South Australia’s largest employer, the Public Service Association (PSA) has a critical role to play in shaping debate around public sector policy in the lead up to the March 2014 State Election.

While some aspects of the Labor Government’s policies are known through its Budget forward estimates, there remains a lack of clarity on the detail. On the other hand, the Liberal Opposition has to date only released policies of a selective and general nature.

The PSA is calling for transparency from both major parties on issues of importance to both its members and the wider community and in that context it has clearly defined the commitments it is seeking from whichever party forms government.

The PSA will actively pursue the following pre-election commitments from the Government and Opposition that they will: 1. Invest in our state’s future by employing trainees and graduates, while making no further cuts to jobs and services.

2. As SA’s biggest employer lead the way for other employers by maintaining job security.

3. Provide fair and reasonable wages outcomes and protection of existing conditions.

4. Rule out privatisation, including through outsourcing and the use of Social Impact Bonds.

Review PUBLIC

President’s Column

The PSA firmly believes these issues must be addressed to ensure the public sector retains the expertise and experience required to meet the challenges of servicing the needs of South Australia’s growing and indeed ageing population.

In 1991, there were 101,647 public sector workers (Full Time Equivalents) servicing a population of 1.4 million people.

By 2012, this had been reduced to 85,727 public sector workers (FTEs) servicing an increased population of 1.6 million. This remains a highly concerning trend.

The pre-election commitments sought are integral to addressing the widening gap between population growth and the number of public sector employees able to deliver the vital services required by South Australian families, before the pendulum swings too far.

The PSA will continue to directly engage with the key political leaders on these critical issues and will also actively seek commitments from candidates and local Members of Parliament at an electorate level.

The PSA will not accept anything other than real and genuine debate on these issues before South Australians are required to cast their vote in the State Election.

As we reach the end of the year we can all take a moment to reflect on our achievements. I thank each and every member, and wish you and your families a safe, healthy and a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

T

he adverse findings arising from the recent review of the Department for Education and Child Development coupled with the scathing criticism of Families SA by a Parliamentary Committee some years ago taints the whole public sector because it begs the question whether it is typical of other public sector agencies.

Such a situation adds needless fuel to the arguments of the anti-public sector lobby who call for wholesale job cuts, ”root and branch” reviews, the introduction of draconian “reforms” and privatization and outsourcing which only serve to further erode the morale and commitment of the thousands of public sector workers who, despite all this, are called upon to do their jobs to the very best of their ability without fear or favor independent of partisan politics.

Arguments that this is all due to the fact that the public sector has become politicized don’t stand up to scrutiny.

When one compares the SA public sector to our cousins in the US where the heads of government agencies are appointed by the President to deliver his policy agenda, it is clear that the SA situation is totally different and is not politicized.

It is however noteworthy that agency heads in the US provide strong, focused leadership to their agencies in the pursuit of the Administration’s policy objectives.

In contrast, over the past decades under both Liberal and Labor administrations SA agency heads have not only been required to operate without a detailed policy framework (endorsed by the community) driven by their respective Ministers but also have been required to embrace an endless plethora of new-age management

fads which all claim to “revitalize” or “reform” the public sector; to make it more productive and customer focused.

The fact that they have all failed to live up to the hype with which they were marketed to gullible politicians is rarely if ever acknowledged. The management consultants slink off to find their next victim.

The time has come to bring these productivity and morale sapping initiatives to an end and instead provide the public sector with the training and development needed to build the capability of the workforce to meet the challenges that successive governments and their agencies will face now and in the future to fulfill their accountability to the community in a tough budgetary environment.

The days of glib sloganeering and political point scoring are well and truly over, a fact that needs to be acknowledged by both sides of politics.

The people of South Australia, wherever they live, deserve better from the political system and the public sector needs to be unshackled and allowed to get on with the job of serving the community.

As we repeatedly remind politicians on both sides, the public sector is comprised of real people doing real jobs that add real value to the community.

As this is the Christmas edition of the Review all that remains for me to do is to wish you all a safe and happy Christmas/ New Year break and to thank you all for your continued support and encouragement.

2014 has all the hallmarks of being a watershed year and one in which we will continue to support and advocate for our members with whichever party forms government in March.

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 47, number 5.

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]

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2013 P3

Enterprise Agreement Negotiations SOUTH AUSTRALIAN PUBLIC SECTOR WAGES PARITY ENTERPRISE AGREEMENT: SALARIED 2012

The current Enterprise Agreement is due to expire on June 30, 2014, having delivered two 3% per annum increases, a $1,000 lump sum, job security and protection of conditions, together with many other benefits.

development of a claim which will be put to the Government although an Agreement is not expected to be ďŹ nalised until after the election.

Formal negotiations can commence in January for a new Agreement.

However, with an election to be held shortly thereafter no real ofďŹ cial progress is expected until after that result is known.

The issue of job security will be a key element in the lead up to the election and in negotiations for a new Agreement.

Preparations are already underway for the

s ! FAIR AND REASONABLE SALARY INCREASE FOR ALL

The PSA claim, while yet to be ďŹ nalised, will seek a package which provides worthwhile beneďŹ ts to members including:

The conference included sessions conducted by the PSA, Nurses and Midwives, Education and Police unions.

The conference sought to share common concerns and discuss international changes to Public Sector services and the risk these changes have at a local level.

On the agenda were ways to

This Agreement shall come into force on and from 23 October 2012 and have a life extending until 30 June 2014 .

s 0ROPER PROTECTION OF EXISTING CONDITIONS

THE COMMISSION HEREBY APPRO VES THIS ENTERPRISE AGREE PURSUANT TO SECTION 79 OF MENT THE FAIR WORK ACT 1994.

DATED 23 OCTOBER 2012.

s *OB 3ECURITY s )MPROVEMENTS TO CLASSIlCATIONS AND SALARY increments;

________________________ COMMISSION MEMBER

s 7ORKLOAD PROTECTION s )MPROVEMENTS TO CONDITIONS AND ALLOWANCES s !N ENFORCEABLE AGREEMENT

Public Sector Conference A major conference of leaders of the State’s Public Sector unions was held in early December.

File No. 4252 of 2012

positively inuence community and political debate in the lead up to the next State election.

Guest speaker was Christopher Stone, Research Director of the Centre for Policy development.

A recent paper by him discussed research into how “governments undermine their own productivity� by their “death of a thousand cuts� approach. “Many governments in Australia and internationally are choosing

to avoid the responsibility for service cuts from budget savings by applying across-the-board cuts rather than identifying the services that should be ceased,â€? he said. “These actions are usually supported by rhetoric denigrating the public service and promising the cuts will remove inefďŹ ciencies and will not affect services. “Examining this approach shows it to be ultimately self-defeating.

Not only are the cuts affecting the quality and availability of services, they are also causing long-term damage to the institutions of government.�

He said the outcome was: Decreasing retention rates in the public service are leading to substantial losses in institutional

knowledge and skills, exacerbating existing problems with staffing and skills shortages; Staff cuts and the resulting increased workloads, along with denigration of the public service by politicians in government, damages the engagement of public servants; Ineffective services and less engaged public servants will reduce the trust and confidence the general public has in government institutions, and reduce the popularity of the government in power.

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PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2013

Glenside Fire Fears A fire in a newly constructed part of the Glenside Health Service sparked a rapid response from unions.

Management claimed that all appropriate fire warning systems were in place, and the building met code requirements.

Staff quickly removed patients from danger, and no-one was harmed in the blaze, but the new inpatient rehabilitation unit sustained significant damage.

As part of a review of safety measures sought by the PSA and the Nurses union, it was discovered that no fire sprinkler system had been installed.

However, it was subsequently announced that a fire sprinkler system would be retro-fitted to ensure safety of staff and patients.

The PSA will continue to investigate the fire safety of other areas of this facility to ensure the health and wellbeing of members and those in their care.

Public Health Branch Step Down Unit Steps Up A new “step down unit” providing additional resources in Forensic Mental Health is a welcome and long overdue outcome to a long campaign for improved facilities fought by the PSA.

or approaching, release into the community.

The step down unit, within James Nash House, provides care and rehabilitation for people due for,

The huge proportion of prisoners with mental health issues needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency.

The PSA remains concerned, however, that facilities and services for mentally ill prisoners in our State’s correctional institutions are woefully inadequate.

The PSA is working with members to monitor changes in public health structure brought about by the cuts to services resulting from the McCann review of non-hospital services.

That review has led to the abandonment of many vital public health initiatives and a reduction of many desperately needed services.

In their place a new “Public Health Partnerships Branch” (PHPB) is being created.

Its responsibilities include: “Re-focus primary prevention”;

and “improve the interface across government, public health partner authorities and SA Health”.

The PHPB will also incorporate some remnant services including the SA Cervix Screening Program and national initiatives including the Obesity Prevention and Lifestyle Program, Healthy Workers Healthy Futures and Closing the Gap. The PSA is meeting regularly with

affected

members

and

management to overview these changes and monitor concerns.

Contract Concern For Child Protection After a fight to gain new fulltime, properly trained staff to care for children under protection of the State, the PSA was pleased to have the Government agree to employ 300 more staff.

This followed a long-running dispute over the use of outside private agencies ill-equipped to deal with the issues who were putting children at even further risk.

Now the PSA will again have to go into bat on this issue after a

decision by Families SA to put the new staff on term contracts.

This was not the original agreement or intent. Having staff on term contracts will inevitably lead to ongoing problems in this area.

The PSA will pursue a proper

level of permanent employment of these staff to help provide a permanent solution to this too often neglected area of our State’s social responsibility.

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2013 P5

True Cost of Community Health Cuts Fran Baum, Matthew Flinders Distinguished Professor and Director of the Southgate Institute for Health, Society & Equity at Flinders University examines the impact of recent abandonment and destruction of non-hospital health services in our State.

There’s a growing body of evidence from all over the world showing that health is influenced by all kinds of social factors.

But one of the best Australian initiatives embracing this approach was recently irrevocably changed in Adelaide.

In 2005, the World Health Organization (WHO) instituted a Commission on the Social Determinants of Health to address social and economic factors (such as having good housing, a fulfilling job and social support) that impact health.

The Commission recommended that health sectors take the impact of these factors on people’s lives into account when planning and delivering their services.

Adelaide’s community health centres were an outstanding model of just this. Indeed, the quality, innovation and effectiveness of the community health centres in Adelaide were as good as any in the world.

This was especially true in terms of how the centres performed their disease prevention and health promotion functions. The support given by the local community health service to the innovative Noarlunga Healthy Cities over 20 years was a particularly strong example; its work was recognised by the WHO. Many of the staff at Adelaide’s community health centres were highly skilled, and developed initiatives to offer social support, advocated on behalf of clients to help them gain legal aid, welfare payments or housing and developed programs.

But despite their successes, these centres no longer exist.

The centres also did the hard work of community development with some of the most disenfranchised groups in Adelaide including people with low incomes, women escaping domestic violence, recent migrants, and Aboriginal people, who have a life expectancy around 11 years less than other Australians.

Many of these people find health services inaccessible because they are culturally inappropriate, or because of the off-putting nature of some professional practice, and sometimes, out of fear of formal institutions.

The community development work increased people’s trust and made them more comfortable about using primary health-care services.

This kind of work saves the health system a lot of money as it prevents use of hospital emergency departments down the line when health issues not dealt with turn

Professor Fran Baum, Professor and Director of the Southgate Institute for Health, Society & Equity at Flinders University

direct client care.

The change is the result of the SA government deciding to implement most of the recommendations of the McCann review.

This review of non-hospital services in Adelaide took a very selective view of the evidence relating to the work of community health centres; it claimed there was little evidence for the effectiveness of their activities.

The review also suggested that local government and Commonwealth-funded Medicare Locals could pick up health promotion, even though, as yet,

for the health of their community and engaged in constructive work with other sectors of government to promote health.

Cutting community health services may result in short-term savings to the South Australian government but, in the longer term, it’s likely to put more pressure on already stretched health budgets.

There’s sufficient evidence to confidently predict that cuts to community health programs will very quickly see an increase of the pressure on the hospital system.

When people don’t have a local community health centre to drop into

“Sadly, in South Australia, illness prevention and building a healthy society are taking a back seat to short-term cost shifting - and likely longer term cost blow-outs.” into emergencies.

But despite their successes, these centres no longer exist. They have fallen victim to a series of costcutting measures introduced by the South Australian Labor government in response to falling state revenues.

The centres now operate more as hospital out-patient departments and only deal with people who are ill. They’ve been directed to drop their disease prevention and health promotion work, and many of their staff have seen their contracts end or their roles change, to focus on

these have neither the resources nor the skills.

When the review was published in January, I chaired a public meeting to discuss its findings and 400 people turned out to protest its main recommendations. Many spoke glowingly about the work of the community health centres.

The health centres are greatly valued by people who have used them for counselling, to attend support groups, and receive advice about staying well. These people see how centre staff have advocated

or to find a support group, problems compound, leading to serious and costly, chronic illness.

That’s why the WHO advises that health systems need to focus on community health, health promotion and the social determinants of health if costs are to be controlled.

Sadly, in South Australia, illness prevention and building a healthy society are taking a back seat to short-term cost shifting – and likely longer term cost blow-outs.

This article was first published at theconversation.com.au.

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2013

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2013

battle to change the 2013 – a year when the thered pace. ga or ct Se ic bl Pu e th er debate ov oader

ut, cut, cut” to a br Changing the mantra of “c s of our community and ed ne e tru e th of g in nd ta unders em. the ways to provide for th e campaign – highlighting th ” ap G e th d in “M A PS e Th pulation growth, service growing divide between po ion.

Budgets – is gaining tract g in ish in m di d an d an m de in recent meetings with d te ra st on m de en be s ha This n Leaders where the tone Government and Oppositio continues to evolve. and tenor of discussions 14, this is an important With an election due in 20 rsue. e PSA will continue to pu th ich wh e on d an , ge an ch at individual, agency and y, an m en be ve ha s se es Succ e, ng the retention allowanc sector-wide levels, includi ng outcomes. strong enterprise bargaini bers for their active The PSA thanks our mem stic suppor t, and looks involvement and enthusia s in the year to come. forward to more successe

workers who deliver the servi

ces.”

Jan McMahon with Premie

r Jay Weatherill

THE RIGHT T O K N OW PSA demands Parties to detail job and serv

The PSA has laid down a simple challenge to both majo r parties as the countdown to the next State election looms ever close r.

It’s simple, yet seldom achieved by our political leaders – althou gh it sometimes slips out by accident.

The PSA is deman ding that both Government and Oppos ition advise what they intend to do about job cuts, and which services they plan to cut.

PSA members and the community will not accept an Audit Commission which would, conveniently, after the election advise on service cuts.

The 1994 Audit Comm ission cut 5,500 jobs, closed the Lump Sum Superannuation Scheme, privitised and outsourced and brought in a wage freeze .

NEW

It is time for both sides of the conversation to be had – the reality that cutting costs, slashing jobs, will cut services. That is the truth.

The Opposition seems far from understanding that truth.

In an apparent mome ntary accident of honesty, the Oppos ition Leader Isobel Redmond threatened last year to slash 2535,000 jobs from the Public Sector workforce.

While quickly retracted – once the obvious polling day reality of such an act sunk in – many fear this is indeed her intention, and the intention of her party.

They are now stating that no decision has been made – and will not be until after the election. If elected, they say, they will create an “Audit Commission ” to examine where cuts must be made.

There can be little doubt of the composition of such a commission or the desired outcome of the Opposition should it gain office.

It is time both parties came clean and told the people of this State what they intend to do.

The PSA would welcome the opportunity for some real debate about the provision of services and how they can be sustained or modified into the future for the benefit of us all.

As a population we are ageing. This includes our public sector workforce. There are fewer people provid ing services amidst growing demand.

How we will face this challe nge requires planning. It requires debate. It needs understanding. It needs action.

The economic rationalist approach – the bottom line approach – to politics is not all that matters. It is not as simple as the State

ice cuts

being in the black or in

the red.

These decisions impac t on lives and future circumstances of the people of South Australia.

The PSA demands to know what each party intends to do with job numbers, job security and retention of vital services.

The parties must advise which services they intend to cut.

If they refuse, if they obfuscate, if they defer to a commission or committee or review panel which will make a decision after the election, this will be challe nged.

The people of this State deserve to know what is planned for their future – before they vote, not after.

The PSA will demand that they are made aware, and will fight for the best outcome for our community and our members.

Death by a Thousand Cuts HOSPITAL

The PSA has raised serious concerns about the ongoing process of cuts within SA Health.

These deaths by a thousand cuts have come from many directions and are causing significant harm to people in need in our community.

As well as the recent Mid Year Budget Review - the State Government has commissioned and received a number of reports as it looks at expenditure in the Health Sector.

Most of these have come from a purely financial perspective – rather than a community needs approach.

One of the most recent of these was prepared for the then Health and Ageing Minister, The Hon John Hill, portantMcCann right in his role as an

by Warren internal consultant.

This review examined “nonhospital based services” provided

by SA Health and acknowledges very rapidly that “the requirement to identify savings” is an “inescapable component of the exercise”.

“Non-hospital based services are more commonly known as primary health care. ”

“It covers a range of very important services including health promotion and illness prevention and primary health care.

funding Dec 31 2012. The Practice Nurse Initiative was an election commitment in 2007 based on a recommendation from the AMA.

“Cuts at this level – the most basic, frontline, first port of call services – can only have an inevitable impact on already stretched hospital services.”

“Cuts at this level – the most basic, frontline, first port of call services – can only have an inevitable impact on already stretched hospital services.

“These are vital services, not peripheral add-ons.

The recommendations that have been made about slashing these are truly worrying.”

Among the recommended cuts are: s 0RACTICE .URSE )NITIATIVE n CEASE

It was designed to enhance the provision of chronic disease care in general practice through increased access to practice nurses; s 9OUTH 3ERVICES n AMALGAMATION AND multimillion dollar budget cuts.

The three youth primary health services are Second Story Youth Health Service, Shopfront Youth Health and South Primary Health.

They provide health promotion and

Paediatric

Care Concerns

Review PUBLIC

TECHNICAL

GRADES REVIEW

SECTOR

The march of technology and changes in educational opportunities and requirements have, over time, blurred the lines between Technical Grades Officers (TGOs), professional and other classifications.

www.cpsu.asn.au

PREMIER

e oyee vice r of PSA aid. over can

his The Premier spoke about Sector Government’s view that the Public

es bringing forward savings measur . originally intended for the 2015-16 Budget e decreas ant signific the He also noted the in public revenue but highlighted tough important role of government during economic times. was Mr Weatherill advised that it not important “to look at how to do things, . just doing things with fewer people”

Job Security

PSA Women’s Conferenc e Fabulous Jobs – Fabulous Lives It was a full house for the PSA’s 26th Annual Women’s Conference in June with the theme of “Fabulous Jobs Fabulous Lives”.

PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon opened the Confe rence, providing promising statistics on growth in women’s employment in the Public Sector – although she noted this is not yet associated with a commensura te increase in the number of women in executive roles.

Sue Hammond shared person al memories and experiences of the way things have improved, aided with old photographs highli ghting the harshness of women’s lives in the early part of the 20th centur y.

A lively group session remembered how workplaces had changed, from times when everyo ne

m

ced Addressing the previously announ 2014, policy to end tenure after 30 June only Mr Weatherill advised that this could occur with good processes in place.

He advised that the government’s

On the day the proposal was aired publicly, media interviews with PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon revealed those concerns.

“This is a glaring example of how cutting budgets can harm essential services,” she said.

“Getting rid of paediatric

care for a large section of our community is not acceptable.

“It will potentially cause hurt and worry to sick children and their families at their time of urgent need.

“It is appalling that cuts have clearly gone so far that any hospital manager would even suggest cutting essential services for sick children.”

SA Health has so far stated that this is a proposal for consultation and that no decision has yet been made.

ULY 2013 P7

was

than a is an asset to be maximised, rather burden to be minimised. role his in that ed explain Mr Weatherill option, as Treasurer he had declined the further in framing the Budget, of making achieve major job cuts as a means to savings as has occurred in other States.

The Premier identified that many g tough decisions had been made, includin

A proposal by management that paediatric care be slashed at the Modbury Hospital raised immediate concerns for the PSA.

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JUNE/J

gal and ive

Premier Jay Weatherill met with the PSA Council in late August, keepi ng a promi se he’d made durin g a Coun cil meeti ng in February that he would return after his first Budget.

Quantifying how qualifications have changed, equipment has been upgraded, and roles have evolved over time, is vital in presenting the case for greater recognition.

“There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that there has been rapid This was recognised by the PSA change in technology and its during negotiations for the current Enterprise Agreement, and the need applications,” PSA Chief Industrial to examine the issue was enshrined Officer Peter Christopher said. in that agreement.

“There is also little doubt that The PSA is now preparing its work structures, roles and pay scales submission to Government on have lagged behind this change. behalf of TGOs. “Our survey and other As part of this a survey has submissions to Government will been disseminated to quantify and examine that change and how it is clarify roles, qualifications and impacting on members and what responsibilities of TGOs. changes should be made.”

2011 Augus OBERt 2013 SEPTEMBER/OCT

Leaders Meet PSA Council

primary prevention activities for youth in crisis and need; s (EALTH 0ROMOTION 3ERVICES n cease funding July 1 2013. These programs include vital programs to combat issues such as the obesity epidemic and diabetes; s 7OMEN S 0RIMARY (EALTH 3ERVICES – be amalgamated, centralised, RE NAMED AND BUDGET CUT BY million. Services include those for mental health, survivors of violence and cervical screening; s 2ESIDENTIAL !GED #ARE (EALTH Support Services – cease funding by June 30. Services involve education and support for residential care staff with the aim of preventing unnecessary presentations to emergency departments and direct primary care to residents of aged care facilities, such as providing a GP service when none is available.

The McCann recommendation will be considered by Government, which will make the final decision.

“Next time the Government or Opposition talks about budget cuts, people need to realise this is what they are talking about.”

n s r n d

continued on page 4...

smoked at their desks and women were told not to wear trousers and to wear high heels.

Alyson Laughlin from Health Partners provided a very motiv ational presentation on “Looking After Yourself ” and Sharon Holme s’ presentation “Creating Better Workplaces for Women” provid ed participants with the opportunity to discuss their own experiences and challenges.

The PSA was also deligh ted that Professor Barbara Pococ k was able to speak to members with a presentation entitled “Work ing Women in Australia 2013 – The good, the bad and the need for Change” providing a snapsh ot of women’s working lives over the past 60 years.

OPPOSITION LEADER Professor Barbara Pocock

Oppo sition Lead er Steve n Marshall addressed the September meeting of PSA Council.

Mr Marshall introduced his presentation in by stating that he will, if elected, work and partnership with the public sector, continue to work with the PSA.

NEW SA UNIONS’ GOALS

Page 4

he

, Questioned on job cuts and job security advised that Opposition cuts and

Sue Hammond

to the tenure policies would be similar Government’s. no Mr Marshall advised that he had d in plans to privatise prisons, as is propose wrong Queensland, but that he saw nothing with selling assets.

SSO WEEK

NEW RAH

CELEBRATIONS

UPDATE

Page 5

Page 9

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2013 P7

YEAR IN REVIEW P6

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JUNE/JULY

2013

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW APRIL/MAY 2013 P9

Retention Allowance

experience which a long term employee Retention Leave is equivalent to 5.6 negotiations between the PSA and the contributes to the Public Service calendar days of annual leave. of Weatherill Government. and the benefits to the employer be will Any Retention Leave taken retaining such experience,” PSA It largely compensates members by any public holiday which extended Service Long some General Secretary Jan McMahon said. who lost out of that leave. period the during occurs by Leave entitlements stripped away “We all fought long and hard over PSA from July 1.

For Long Service Leave that does not former Treasurer Kevin Foley. this Provision and now members can All the final details have been occur. reap the rewards of their efforts.

The new Retention Leave started worked out about how the Leave PSA relentlessly pursued The It 2011.

1 July “This involved a High Court legal accumulating from Provisions will be applied and the reduction of long service leave will be implemented in steps and by battle, relentless campaigning and the Commissioner for Public entitlements. The Retention Provision eligible employees will be a negotiations with successive 2015 issued July strong has ent pursuing to Employm Sector was negotiated in parallel credited with 4 working days’ retention Government leaderships.

Determination – available on the the lost LSL. 9 leave a year. This is in addition to “In the end, a good outcome was Provision is an PSA website.

Retention “This Leave calendar days Long Service achieved.”

This new form of leave has come acknowledgement of the skills and every year. Four working days’ about as a result of a campaign and

P6

Dispute Over Danger to Children

Members will be able to access the new Retenti on Leave Provisions negotiated by the

ASO1 PROGRESSION

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Better trained; Provide a higher quality of service;

of the Minister.

“This includes incidents such as

M IN D TH E GAP - The Growing Gap Between Jo

The gap between service delivery and demand is widening.

doubling up of medication of young people and leaving a vomiting child alone all night without checking on them or providing even the most basic of care.

“Members

are

appalled

at

the deficiency in care that the Department is willing to subject its

Job cuts and ongo ing service reductions mean more and more people in need are being let down.

The PSA has launc hed a new campaign to alert our community and government to the danger.

“Mind the Gap” is a multi-faceted campaign involving online, printed and media actions.

clients to.

“This outsourcing must cease

Click on the “Min d the Gap” button on the PSA website and you will be able to have your say too on how cuts are affecting your workplace and the services you deliver.

Also on the page are links to research, media repor ts on service delivery failure as a result of budget cuts, and to jobs watch – which reveals how many jobs have already been shed and the impact.

“It is a simple, reinforceable, memorable image aimed at making

it very clear that peop le are already being harmed by the job and service cuts,” PSA Gene ralSecretary Jan McMahon said.

“People are fallin g into the gap now and it is grow ing wider and wider.

“The lobby groups which claims South Australians are over serviced and overstaffed are not supported by the facts.

“In 1991 we had 1.4 million people in this State and 115,700 public

bs and Services

service workers providing them essential services.

“As of last year we had 1.6 million people living here with only 103,649 workers.

A larger population and smaller public sector can only mean reduced services.

“The PSA will chall enge both the Government and Oppo sition if it is their intention to further cut jobs and services.”

immediately.”

The PSA will continue to pursue this matter to ensure the proper use of fully trained members to protect children.

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Are more accountable than commercial carers; 4: Cost less than commercial carers.

“The PSA has received disturbing reports that members have been required under mandatory reporting guidelines to make Care Concern reports about the quality of care that is provided by commercial carers.

PSA members have made numerous care concern reports in relation to the inappropriate level of care being provided by commercial carers to children under the Guardian 3:

2013

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Standard week is 2pm Saturday until 10am the following Saturday.

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being provided to these children when cared for by commercial carers rather than properly trained Families SA staff.

In a letter to Families SA, PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon says: “The PSA has now been advised that some members’ temporary contracts have been cancelled and they are now considered casual employees. This is unacceptable.

“It is agreed between the parties that Families SA workers are:

REVIEW APRIL/MAY

Enjoy a PSA holiday home!

id

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paign

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quite clearly some of the problems

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Hon. Robert Brokenshire, revealed

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Support

THE FOI, by Family First MLC The

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security and safety in our prisons.

Ja

“This is the backbone of the Public Sector.

Too often overlooked, these staff should now be more properly recognised and rewarded thanks to this campaign.”

y db

“This should result in a major improvem ent for many thousands of Public Sector employees,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.

Prison FOI

Documents obtained under Freedom of Information (FOI) have confirmed facts the PSA has long been reporting and f ighting against regarding

r i se

The PSA has had significant input into that report and will continue to push hard to ensure it moves forward.

,A d

It is required to provide a report to the Premier and Senior Management Council by 30 June 2013 .

A DD VALUE

Youth Workers and the children under the care of the Guardian throughout the Residential Care Directorate of Families SA, Community includes which Care, Transitional Residential Accommodation, Nation Building and Tregenza Emergency Care have all been negatively affected by the outsourcing of public sector jobs to commercial care organisations.

Very disturbing reports have been received about the poor level of care

St

of the PSA to examine the issue of ASO progression.

Au th o

The outcomes will also benefit SSO1 and OPS1 members.

This campaign aims to prove that while these positions are intended as entry level, staff have often in the past not progressed despite, in some cases, decades of service and commens urate increases in skills and knowledge.

The PSA is arguing for proper and more rapid progression.

There is also a campaign to link the ASO1 level with a new youth training program as part of a larger recruitment drive.

The Department of the Premier and Cabinet has established a working party at the instigation

ASO1’s ’s

Support the

The push, initiated by the PSA, to have the skills and experience of long-standing ASO1s recognised and rewarded is continuin g.

ffi rs

i

l

The PSA is in a formal dispute with Families SA over the use of poorly trained external carers in residential accommodation for children at risk.

PUBLIC SECTOR

e iri

caused by chronic overcrowding and doubling or tripling up of inmates in cells.

The documents showed Correctional Officers had been left in dangerous situations on numerous occasions.

PSA Chief Industrial Officer Peter Christopher said the documents “reveal the extent of security issues”

Members are advised to vacate the units by 10am at the latest.

Earliest arrival time is 2pm. This time will be used to prepare the unit for your arrival.

It is the responsibility of the member to replace any damages / breakagess that occur.

facing correctional services offiers.

n apply rates do not Off-season “Much of the violence results from fall during this period. overcrowding,” he said.

HOLIDAY HOME AVAILABILITY : MAY - JULY 2013 Glenelg

should school holidays

of mentally ill people Cancellations. being placed inIf cancelled one month before, full refund is c w weeks before, half refund is given. jails when they may be better served two If cancelled given. before, one third refund weeks two n than less cancelled If elsewhere.” is given.

L 8205 3200 OR TOLL FREE 1800 811 457 FOR INFORMATION CALL

June 1 - 28 –––

July 13 - 26 20 - 31

–––

1 - 28

27 - 31

Mannum

4 - 31 –––

1-7 15 - 30

1-5 20 - 31

Pt Lincoln

18 - 31 –––

22 - 30 –––

1-5 20 - 31

Pt Vincent

4 - 31

1 - 21

1 - 31

Robe

1 - 31

1 - 30

1 - 31

Goolwa

18 - 31 –––

1 - 30 –––

1-5 2 - 26

K. I.

n are decided by ballot. You must holiday bookings “That is an issue School we have been closing dates are Christmas b apply in writing. The ballot firmly fighting against.

Other- issues p holidays - 30 November; July 30 April: April holidays r September holidays - 31 March. of grave concern include the number - 28 February; holidays

May ––– –––

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW SEPTEM

BER/OCTOBER 2013 P5

SSO WEEK CELEBRATIONS

The PSA held its 9th Annual Sch ool Services Officers Conference in August an event which is always very popular and well attended.

South East Meetings PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon met with members and Worksite Reps during a recent visit to the South-East.

Scheduled meetings were held in Mt Gambier and Naracoorte with informal meetings held with other members in other local centres.

A wide variety of concerns

and issues were canvassed and a general concern was noted about a decline in services.

“Workloads are increasing, and passionate staff told us how they are pushing themselves harder and harder on behalf of their community to provide vital services,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.

Forestry EB Win Over the past 14 months, Prolonged negotiations have resulted in a positive EB win for Forestry members. with Forestry SA management. the PSA worked with other unions to negotiate a good faith agreement in the parity Public Sector The PSA steadfastly sought an outcome no less than the agreement achieved Enterprise Agreement achieved last year. short of this goal. far fell which Earlier this year management delivered a draft agreement for members to vote “NO”.

It was unanimously decried by unions and the PSA campaigned actively was defeated.

At that ballot 91% did vote “NO” and that management-driven agreement Negotiation resumed and subsequently all disputed matters were resolved. support, with the overwhelming A revised agreement was submitted to staff for ballot and it received PSA urging members to vote “YES”. their persistence.

This was a good outcome for members who should be congratulated for They had the courage to say no, and stood up for their rights.

The conference is a central part of the annual SSO Recognition 7EEK n ESTABLISHED TO ENSURE 33/S ARE VALUED AS A CRUCIAL PART OF THE education workforce.

Part of this recognition will includ e an improved classification structure for SSOs enabling more transp arent means of progression.

This year’s conference had the theme “Networking for Success”.

Presenters aimed to facilitate discu ssion and assist in developing ideas to bring SSOs together to achie ve more.

P8

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2013

Work Safety Wanes An ACTU instigated work safety meeting held in late October raised concerns about a diminution in work safety initiatives and practices.

The meeting discussed the decrease in worker safety caused by this decrease in workplace care and attention to safety.

Details were given of a survey conducted on workplace health and safety which discovered one in ďŹ ve health and safety representatives had been bullied or harassed for raising a health and safety issue at work.

The scope and importance of workplace safety was highlighted by ďŹ gures given at the meeting: s PEOPLE DIE EACH YEAR FROM WORK RELATED DISEASES s OF WORKERS KILLED ARE MALE s OF THOSE KILLED DIE IN A VEHICLE INCIDENT s 4HE ECONOMIC COST OF WORK RELATED INJURIES AND ILLNESS is estimated at $60 billion; s OR WORKERS KILLED ARE FROM THE AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY s !BOUT WORKERS DIE EACH YEAR AT WORK

PSA Assistant Secretary Nev Kitchin with Natasha Brown, ACTU President Ged Kearney and Chris Hall

Fight For The Peoples House continued from page 1

and hands greater power to the two major parties.

The Legislative Council has always been a house of review. It has provided vital checks and balances against legislation brought forward by both parties.

Time and time again it has

proved vital to the PSA and our members as legislation has been debated and amended thanks to the independents and minor parties.

These independents and minor parties are not just an irritant to the major parties. They are a voice of the people who have elected them.

Federal Secretary Karen Batt with Federal President Jan McMahon consider the agenda for the November meeting of Federal Executive.

Social Impact Bonds Fight The PSA has joined other unions in expressing grave concerns about the growing trend of “social impact bonds�.

In short these “bondsâ€? provide a means for conservative governments to outsource essential services to private companies for proďŹ t.

They were ďŹ rst tried in the UK and were a resounding failure.

Now it appears the Abbott Federal Government intends to utilise them.

In media statements in October, the Australian Council of Trade Unions said the Prime Minister was “committing Australia to follow the failed UK model, rely on unpaid labour, slash jobs and privatise the Public Sector. “The government has conďŹ rmed it intends to follow a version of the failed British ‘Big Society’ concept that caused such high unemployment and dysfunctional privatisation in the UK. “What they want to do is privatise vital public services on a massive scale. But without an adequate state

controlled safety-net many people will fall through, exacerbating inequality and ensuring that we well and truly live in a society of haves and have-nots. “In the UK it has caused a massive rise in unemployment, where those who once had jobs now face the double barrel of a punitive beneďŹ ts system and drastically pared-down public services. “This subject needs real debate and thorough evaluation. The public should be made well aware of the implication because what is clear is that the government’s strategy is to implement its agenda bit by bit so that before we know it, Australia will be a very different nation than it is today.â€?

The South Australian Government is now also examining Social Impact Bonds. Minister Snelling has advised the PSA that any post election use will not impact on existing services.

The opposition has also indicated its interest in such Bonds.

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2013 P9

24/7 Care Needed For Youths The PSA is continuing to push for more suitable health care for youths detained in the new youth centre.

When it was constructed, it was touted as having a world’s-bestpractice medical facility capable of providing virtually all non-life threatening medical issues ranging from dental to psychiatric.

In reality, however, due to a funding dispute, it is now a Monday to Friday, 9-to-5 health centre, unable to deal with outside business hours health issues of any kind.

The PSA has written formally to the Department of Community and Social Inclusion which in turn is stepping up negotiations with the Department of Health.

The PSA will continue to push for the proper level of care initially intended for this new centre.

PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon inspecting the new facility with Minister Ian Hunter and reps during construction

PS Unions Quiz Marshall Opposition Leader Steven Marshall met with a broad range of public sector unions to discuss his party’s views in a historic meeting at the PSA building in late October.

Such a meeting has only rarely, if ever before, been held between such a large collection of public sector unions and an Opposition Leader in

the lead up to a State Election.

Senior ofďŹ cials of the PSA, who organised the meeting, joined with leaders of the Nurses and Midwives, SA Unions, AEU, Ambulance, Fire ďŹ ghters and Police unions.

Mr Marshall gave an overview encompassing a number of issues and questions were asked – but ultimately much more detail will be needed. A formal letter has been

sent to Mr Marshall seeking this detail in writing.

During the meeting, Mr Marshall gave same details of his personal and professional background and spoke of his respect for the Public Sector.

He said he would be willing to work constructively with Public Sector unions should he win government.

Issues raised, but needing more

details, included: s 2OLE OF )NDUSTRIAL 2ELATIONS Tribunal and rights of union access; s #UTS TO PUBLIC SECTOR SERVICES AND jobs, as has occurred interstate where Liberal Governments have replaced Labor Governments; s *OB SECURITY AND TENURE s 3ALE OF PUBLIC ASSETS PRIVATISATION of services; s h%FlCIENCY DIVIDENDSv AND post-election scope of his “productivity commission�; s 2OLE AND FUTURE OF 3HARED Services.

The consensus was, however, that while some positive statements were made, there was still a long way to go before it was clear precisely what the Opposition’s intentions are for the Public Sector and industrial relations should it win government.

Answers to many important questions are still needed and have been sought.

The nature of those answers, and whether they are given, will no doubt inform the decisions of the various unions about their role ahead of the State election.

P10 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2013

Changing Technology The rapid advancement of technology, and increasing demand for new tertiary qualifications, has created problems for both staff and management in the Technical Grades.

The Technical Grade Officers (TGOs) structure was first established more than 20 years ago.

Since then, the rapid changes we have all experienced have resulted in a seismic change in TGO numbers (reduced from thousands to hundreds in that time) and responsibilities.

Many members who were previously TGOs moved into the professional stream due to a change in educational requirements.

As a result, the structure surrounding these members no longer meets the needs of the existing circumstances.

Wages have diminished in relative terms over the years as well, making these roles less desirable and more difficult to recruit for. In some instances, wages for these roles in the Public Sector are now far below those available in the private sector.

To examine this issue, the PSA set up a working party to prepare submissions to Government.

After consultation with TGO members, the PSA has now developed a report which has gone to Government with the aim of having a new structure incorporated into the new Enterprise Agreement, due from July 2014.

Hospital restraints Recent moves by the Department of Health to introduce a new process for the removal of prisoner restraints by doctors and nurses is being fought by the PSA. Public safety would be put at greater risk and the likelihood of escape attempts increased significantly if Correctional Services Officers guarding prisoners in hospital no longer controlled the decision

regarding removal of restraints.

In life threatening situations, removal of restraints is of course appropriate, but at other times it can be decisions with no medical basis which can increase danger.

The PSA has written to the Department to ensure that there will be a better way found to deal with this issue and that Corrections members are involved in the decision making process.

Pay Win For SSOs The PSA has gained a new pay level for School Services Officers as the fight to improve pay and conditions continues.

SSO1s and SSO2s now have a new top increment available worth an extra $1,000 a year.

Top increment SSO1s and SSO2s who have an educational qualification pertinent to any of the many and varied roles of SSOs are eligible for this rise.

If you believe you have such qualifications and have reached the top

increment, you may be eligible and should contact your worksite representative for clarification. Payments will be backdated to January 2013.

The PSA is also continuing to push for more transparent mechanisms for progression from SSO1 to SSO2.

This is a difficult and long-running issue which will spill over into 2014 and will be included in discussions for the next Enterprise Agreement.

ASO1 Recognition The failure to properly recognise the skills and experience of ASO1s is at the heart of an ongoing campaign by the PSA. This campaign is making headway to clear the path to progression for longserving and highly valued ASO1s to the ASO2 band.

The PSA has heard, time and time again, from many ASO1s that they are not encouraged to develop their skills, not given opportunities to show their merit and regularly confront barriers to opportunities to take up higher duties.

A special working party set up to examine progression continues to seek

the right means to solve these issues.

Senior PSA representatives are meeting regularly with the Department of Premier and Cabinet, Public Sector Workforce Relations and the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment to progress this issue.

In the interim, PSA Industrial Officers continue to work on individual issues to ensure rights and workloads are recognised and preserved.

Enjoy a PSA holiday home!

All units are airconditioned.

Standard week is 2pm Saturday until 10am the following Saturday.

Members are advised to vacate the units by 10am at the latest.

Earliest arrival time is 2pm. This time will be used to prepare the unit for your arrival.

It is the responsibility of the member to replace any damages / breakages that occur.

Off-season rates do not apply should school holidays fall during this period.

School holiday bookings are decided by ballot. You must apply in writing. The ballot closing dates are Christmas holidays - 30 April: April holidays - 30 November; July holidays - 28 February; September holidays - 31 March.

Cancellations. If cancelled one month before, full refund is given. If cancelled two weeks before, half refund is given.

If cancelled less than two weeks before, one third refund is given.

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT holidayhomes@cpsu.asn.au

HOLIDAY HOME AVAILABILITY : JANUARY - APRIL 2014 Glenelg K. I. Mannum Pt Lincoln Pt Vincent Robe Goolwa Wirrina

January

February

March

April

––– ––– ––– ––– ––– 25 - 31 ––– ––– ––– ––– ––– –––

––– ––– ––– 1 - 14 22 - 28 1 - 28 1 - 28 ––– 1 - 21 ––– 8 - 14 22 - 28

22 - 31 ––– ––– 15 - 31 ––– 1 - 31 1-7 15 - 31 8 - 14 22 - 31 1 - 31 –––

1 - 11 ––– ––– 1 - 11 ––– 1 - 11 1 - 11 ––– 1 - 11 ––– 1 - 11 –––

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2013 P11

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE FORD FALCON FG XR6, first registered on October 2010. 6 Speed automatic Sedan. Grey flawless paintwork, black interior, tinted windows, Bluetooth, Air cond, has all the luxury fittings. Reg until July 2014. 79000 kilom. $17500 ONO. REG ZVR-263 Please call on 0423085933 for inspection.

ANTIQUE-CHEST OF DRAWERS - BEST OFFER. Wayne Ph:0414831917 For Sale - Advanced Lifestyle International Therapy Chair. Deluxe Recliner, back & leg heating feature. Features nu-wave roller massage, 3 massage actions CVT back, seat, leg, one touch auto-reclining action. Lift/lower actions. Wall hugging feature to take the least amount of space. Conservative floral fabric, scotch guarded. Only 18th mths old. Excellent condition. Deceased estate, must sell, cost $8,950 sell $3,400 neg. All papers information available. Buyer to pickup. Contact Dianne 043 858 6647.

For Sale - HENLEY BEACH $790,000.00

REAL ESTATE 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 TIMESHARE FOR SALE - 1 b/r apartment Gold Coast - $1500.00 o.n.o. Call Trevor on 0408863531 or Sue on 0408 867 573 for further enquiries TIMESHARE FOR SALE - 2 b/r, 6 person, 1 week @ Goolwa. Holiday Concepts system - 9250 pts.

Exchange Australia/worldwide. $2500 o.n.o.

Please call Ian on 82841338 or 0402781573 HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION SEACLIFF BEACH HOLIDAY HIDEAWAY Fully furnished short-term holiday rental available.

Located on beach front close to Jetty Road Brighton and Jetty Road 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://seacliffbeachholiday hideaway.com/, for rates please contact Di Rankine at enquiry@seacliffbeachholidayhideaway.com KINGFISHER LODGE, EDITHBURGH, YORKE PENINSULA

Beautiful presentation, perfect location Located moments to vibrant Henley Square and beach; this magnificent beachside residence presents a rare opportunity to own an updated, executive home with loads of character. The home provides an up to date living environment that blends well with the old charm of colourful leadlight, polished timber floors, high ceilings, timber work and ornate fire places.

Ceiling fans are in all rooms with R/c air conditioning in the family area and master bedroom. There are 3 double bedrooms all of generous size with the master offering an ensuite and a built in robe. A separate formal lounge room allows for some quiet time or for those intimate get togethers especially on cold winter evenings. The delightful timber kitchen which overlooks the dining and family area ensures entertaining is fun and day to day living is easy. Other features include a combustion heater and floor to ceiling timber windows overlooking the delightful rear garden.

The rear garden is easy to maintain but spacious with flower beds, a lawned area and a pergola for relaxing under while entertaining friends on those lazy summer afternoons. There is a double garage with auto roller door and valuable rear lane access. There is room to park another 2 cars in the driveway.

Allotment size is 607 square metres with dwelling 168 square metres and garaging of 30 square metres.

For further details and to arrange an inspection please phone Darryl on 0406 044 375 For Sale - Leather Riding Boots X 2.

RM Williams all leather Riding Boots Size 8 1/2 B, Chocolate Brown colour $125.00.

Knee High (made to measure) all leather RW Williams Boots Size 8 1/2 B, Chocolate Brown colour $425.00 (seldom worn).

Both pairs in excellent condition and half price of new sale price.

Telephone Jennie on 0450 015 415 for further information.

For Sale – MOTOR BIKE Suzuki Boulevard 208, VL 800 Black Low Kms 3,300, Includes Saddle Bags, Back Rest etc $7,500 ONO Call Trevor: 0408863531 For Sale - Billiard table, 8 x 4 ft, walnut, 6 turned legs, Italian slate, English cloth. Very good condition.

Cues, balls, score board, cover and other accessories included.

Please call Mike on 0417 805 972

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

SEEKING YOUR SUPPORT Paul Saffi – Ride to Cure Cancer 37 year PSA member Paul Saffi (State Disaster Recovery Office) is a volunteer ambassador for the Cancer Council, having lost many friends, family and Public Sector colleagues to the disease over the years.

Paul will be riding in the Tour Down Under Challenge on 24 January 2014. Please help in the fight to cure cancer by sponsoring Paul, or any other rider - simply search for a rider to sponsor at www.rideforareason.com.au

PSA DISCOUNT SERVICES HAVE FUN USING YOUR PSA AMBASSADOR CARD AND SAVE MUCH MORE THAN YOUR ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEE.

Use your Ambassador Card in Darwin, Alice Springs, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns, Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Hobart, Launceston, Perth, Adelaide and places in between.

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.

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

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

“OCEAN BREAK” - MIDDLETON - Centrally located at Middleton, is an inviting home with beautiful, bright beach style décor. It is close to Middle Point and other well known surfing and swimming beaches, bakery, tavern and general store. Fully self contained with almost every modern day amenity to ensure a carefree enjoyable stay. Features: 2 b/rms (sleeps 6), electric blankets, pillows, r/c a/c, colour tv/dvd/vcr radio/cd, microwave, stove, fridge/freezer, bbq & outdoor settings, fenced secure garden & car parking.

Reasonable rates. Packages & vouchers available.

Ph: 0403 271 015 or 8326 2619 or email oceanbreak@dodo.com.au

How do I use a Gift Card?

When making a purchase, show your Card to the register operator. The value of your purchase will be deducted from the balance of your Gift Card; the remaining balance can be used until the value reaches zero. If your purchase exceeds the amount on your Gift Card you will need to pay the difference. Treat your Gift Card as if it were cash.

What Gift Cards are currently available to purchase?

Westfield, Kmart, Liquorland. The Good Guys, BCF, Supercheap Auto, Allmart, All Sports, Adrenalin, JB Hi-Fi, Ray’s Outdoors, Rebel Sport, Amart All Sports can be purchased by calling The Ambassador Card on 1300 724 477.

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

For what amounts can I purchase a Gift Card?

You can buy listed Gift Cards in denominations of $100-$500 (even hundreds). Maximum order for each type of card is $1,000 /order.

Postage and Handling: $2.00 Normal mail, $5.00 Registered Post Post (all orders $500 or more).

How do I pay for the Gift Cards order?

Order online at www.ambassadorcard.com.au or call The Ambassador Card on 1300 724 477.

DE-STRESS IN CHORD All you bathroom baritones and tenors out there who would like to develop those voices and sing a range of music from Gershwin to Opera choruses to modern musicals and be a part of a group of people who have been involved in this for

Purchases can be made in person from the PSA, by phone or by downloading an order form from the “Membership” icon on the PSA web site (www.cpsu.asn.au).

P12 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2013

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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

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Community & Public Sector Union SA Branch (SPSF Group)

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PSA Training Program www.cpsu.asn.au/training INFO BY EMAIL

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Review

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s 0UBLISHED SIX TIMES A YEAR

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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.

Review Review Review Review EB PUBLIC

PUBLIC

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Budget O ptimism Liberal

2011 aryt 2013 Augus Febru

www.cpsu.asn.au

s &ULL COLOUR PAGES

The overwhelming vote in

s $IRECT MAILED

s 2EGULAR FEATURES s 4RAVEL AND ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 2012

favour process we undertook,” of acceptance of our PSA General new EB pleasing end to sometimes was a Secretary Jan McMahon said. difficult “The fact that we negotiating circumstan negotiated with this new Governmen ces. t Starting from a position with genuine dialogue leadership, and no need due to previous breaches of distrust, for dispute was a good of good will outcome. and fair dealings, the “In tough economic PSA was able to times, we have ensure a strong, secure, achieved a very positive enforceable outcome for agreement which members. protects and improves rights and entitlements.

“It is a significant outcome and we The lengthy process can be very pleased which resulted that things are in this outcome back on track.” involved of meetings at worksites hundreds From the outset, around the the PSA sought State as we sought members’ input a fair and reasonable and listened to concerns. salary increase, protection of existing conditions, job “The final very pleasing security, improveme outcome nt of conditions, of these efforts through better plus 3% (October workload protection 2012) plus 3% “Yes” vote, was a strong such a huge and enforceability of the ensure safe and proper (October 2013). endorsement agreement. workloads. on the content of the EB and the “We ticked every Improved conditions In accordance with one of those the Fair Work included boxes,” Ms McMahon extra travel time Act, following the said. for Regional strong positive vote, The PSA required professional developme the Agreement has and nt, additional been certified by secured a shorter paid maternity leave 2 year the Industrial Relations and partner A Agreement Commission leave. (until June of South Australia.

2014) and it includes 30, All existing conditions job security.

“We thank all those were protected and additional involved in requirements “With a State election these prolonged have been placed and often difficult on managers to due in March 2014, negotiations,” Ms neither McMahon said.

Government nor Opposition will commit yet to future job security for a longer term.”

“The PSA was not prepared to have a longer Many other EB negotiatio Agreement that did not those areas not captured ns, for have commenced as they have for provide job security for by the members working its entire length. in Electoral Offices, main Enterpris e Agreeme nt Parliament, The next Agreement Forestry SA, West negotiated with Governme will be Beach nt, are Trust, Adelaide Festival negotiated in the run continuing.

Centre Trust, up WorkCover and SA the next State election.” to Lotteries.

Three year Agreements for Minda, The PSA will continue The Novita and Red Agreement to push Cross staff were these provided all those negotiations along negotiated last year. involved in full with a $1,000 consultation with Within our schools, negotiations members to ensure bonus

EB Actions an equally solid outcome.

PUBLIC SECTOR 'RENEWAL'

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s .EWS AND VIEWS

WIN

SAVAGE CUTS TO HEALTH

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2012 A YEAR IN REVIEW

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SECTOR

SECTOR

www.cpsu.as n.au

ges ial Chan Minister

JUNE/ A JULY 2013

n au n.au

www.cpsu.as

programs, not

job cuts.

Response to Budget

“Agencies will be require reduce their d to capital program s, or defer introducing new system s, in order achieve savings to in each financi al year.

In respect to the Govern decision to ment reduce the value of separation The PSA packages, has met the PSA always argued has with Opposition for jobs to Leader, the be retained, not for incenti Hon. Steven Mars ves for people hall, to leave.

An incentive of the Budg in the wake by an employ er for staff to leave volunta et and his response to rily is not a conditi of employment it. which is protect on In his Budge Jan McMahon Enterprise ed by t Reply speech , Premier Jay Agreements Weatherill Parliam or Industrial and Lindsay in ent, Mr Marsh Awards.

Oxlad all, in brief, said the The first Budge Oppos The PSA welcom t by Premier economic concer ition’s three key ed the decisio Treas urer and schools not He said he ns were: n for Jay Weath to proceed with ll believed his erill was Jay Weatheri met with 1: Returning Government was making a previously announced with Premier “cautious the Budget a choice to Jan McMahon Financial optimism” to surplus; continue to provide jobs by the PSA. Management 2. Growing Program that and the econom would have need, and that services to people in y; resulted in the The Govern loss of 300 3. Making South this would Full Time Equiva ment’s decisio continue to support our Australia a services for n to put lent (FTE) society through School Service more attractive place South Austra financi difficul s lian familie al times. and busines to live. t These 300 positio Officer positions. s s ahead “The Treasu ns equate to cuts was welcom of further direct job While little rer understands up to 600 staff, many ed. detail was are already part time, who people the key empha provided, “In our ongoin struggling will now be retained, benefit to make ends sis was the meet and g dialogu Government ing Oppos need more focus on small since the Global e with the State, includi employment across help through services from business develo ition the red.

Crisis hit, we Financial ng regional Government, The Oppos black or in pment. and have empha centres. being in the on lives not less. ition Leade “He is also of “Public Sector ition sised the for responsible s impact r ruled out massive job the view that of the compos workers are These decision of the people of South financial manag need little doubt unemploymen cuts in the Public increasing people, doing PSA Genera real There can be tances ement,” desired outcome t and reducin but did not real jobs and Sector, l Secretary sion or the future circums delivery by conversation g service quantify this.

Jan McMahon adding real office. said. value of such a commis sides of the gain slashin each a. it both to the what for g costs, Australi Public Sector community,” ion should know He said the It is time is counter-produ that cutting Ms McMahon jobs demands to of the Opposit clean and told , job previously said.

“We have – the reality ctive..”

The PSA a simple parties came job numbers announced . That is the Audit Comm to be had made it clear, to do with intend to do.

It is time both Over the past cut services has laid down they . ission will researc as intends what PSA through jobs, services would be replace party h and reports two decade The parties vital this State slashing population s retention of , that respon opportunity the people of d to both major services financial manag has risen from the State’s security and welcome the State sible far from challenge truth. continued page advise which ement needs to 1.6 million 1.4 million The PSA would about the provision of to the next ion seems parties must own encom The 5 Opposit to also people, yet pass social debate The d or the countd capital.

Sector has to cut. the Public be sustaine for some real that truth. ever closer. t te, if they they intend been reduce how they can “This means our us all. understanding ary acciden if they obfusca election looms d over the same services and time. achieved by t moment the benefit of that Govern tee or review If they refuse, Isobel yet seldom es when making the future for In an apparen ments, sion or commit ion Leader it sometim It’s simple, the modified into ageing. This the Opposit The PSA was – although defer to a commis make a decision after on we are slash 25need to contem financial decisions, There of honesty, less recepti political leaders t. will As a populati last year to workforce. plate the impact Government’s ce. ve of the threatened ed. panel which acciden both public sector people who Redmond amidst Sector workfor on the slips out by will be challeng ing that includes our rely on them.” to know from the Public dividend announ increased efficiency is demand election, this providing services what State deserve 35,000 jobs The PSA once the obvious ion advise ced in the Budget In deliver are fewer people they people of this retracted – before – – The and Opposit in ing . quickly which ent Ms McMa his Budget .

While an act sunk Governm for their future e requires Weatherill job cuts, and growing demand hon, said: , Mr reality of such to do about made it what is planned n, and “Impor face this challeng for PSA membe needs polling day they intend clear that her intentio How we will understood rs and the commutantly debate. It plan to cut. he this is indeed will vote, not after. they are made this. any efficien It requires services they many fear community demand that nity, for planning. cy dividen s and the n of her party.

The PSA will which has It needs action. d savings the best outcome PSA member come from the the intentio no decision Commission can understanding. will fight for approach – reductions stating that an Audit advise aware, and after the ic rationalist members. or delays not accept They are now is not all after the election Opposition ity and our The econom not be until to Leader conveniently, h – to politics – and will our commun create

delighted particularly given “We were r’s commitment, iation Service Assoc ile with the Premie reshuffle, to respond the The Public prof n South on the day of the high ges that threate by welco mes public sector t to the challen jobs. afforded the Australian are in the herill ’s recen those jobs Prem ier Weat , in “Many of ffle. and we expect to cabinet reshu public sector election, been placed sector has to the 2014 up r’s public lead The the ions with the Premie centre by detailed discuss parties, front and engage in the Treasury all take on both r, and indeed decision to the Public the Premie ce to the Minister for s of relevan role and said. about policie hon McMa ” Ms good Sector. public sector, tted to forged a is commi “The PSA Treasurer “The PSA sector’s critical with former the public er Jack relationship protecting Australian Health Minist that to ng the South and now role in servici ing those we would expect and protect Premier Snelling and community, the watch of services.”

General deliver the continue under said PSA workers who Weatherill,” McMahon.

Secretary Jan

W K NrviO ce cuts HtoTdetaTil O Rs IG job and se E nd TH es rti Pa A dema PS

would, cuts. on service sion cut 5,500 Audit Commis nuation The 1994 Sum Superan the Lump ed and jobs, closed d and outsourc Scheme, privitisefreeze. a wage brought in

NEW HOLIDAY PENALTY RATES DESERVED

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been made say, they will elected, they where election. If to examine Commission” an “Audit made. cuts must be

HOSPITAL SECURITY GAINS TRACTION

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approac State bottom line simple as the It is not as that matters.

BEST LEGAL/ INDUSTRIAL WIN FOR WORKERS AWARD

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BUDGET SUBMISSIO

Steven Marshall

NS

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PSA WOMEN’S CONFERENCE

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meets with

PSA

SOUTH EAST MEETINGS

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www.cpsu.asn.au

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

Leaders Meet PSA Council PREMIER

Premier Jay Weatherill met with the PSA Council in late August, keeping a promise he’d made during a Council meeting in February that he would return after his first Budget.

The Premier spoke about his Government’s view that the Public Sector

is an asset to be maximised, rather than a burden to be minimised.

Mr Weatherill explained that in his role as Treasurer he had declined the option, in framing the Budget, of making further major job cuts as a means to achieve savings as has occurred in other States.

The Premier identified that many tough decisions had been made, including

bringing forward savings measures originally intended for the 2015-16 Budget.

He also noted the significant decrease in public revenue but highlighted the important role of government during tough economic times.

Mr Weatherill advised that it was important “to look at how to do things, not just doing things with fewer people”.

Job Security Addressing the previously announced policy to end tenure after 30 June 2014, Mr Weatherill advised that this could only occur with good processes in place.

He advised that the government’s

continued on page 4...

OPPOSITION LEADER Opposition

Leader

Steven

Marshall addressed the September meeting of PSA Council.

Questioned on job cuts and job security, he advised that Opposition cuts and tenure policies would be similar to the Government’s.

Mr Marshall introduced his presentation

Mr Marshall advised that he had no

by stating that he will, if elected, work in

plans to privatise prisons, as is proposed in

partnership with the public sector, and

Queensland, but that he saw nothing wrong

continue to work with the PSA.

with selling assets.

Review NEW SA UNIONS’ GOALS

SSO WEEK

NEW RAH

CELEBRATIONS

UPDATE

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