PSA Review Feb 2013

Review PUBLIC

SECTOR

www.cpsu.asn.au

February 2013

Ministerial Changes The Public Service Association welcomes the high prof ile afforded the public sector by Premier Weatherill’s recent cabinet reshuffle.

The public sector has been placed front and centre by the Premier’s decision to take on both the Treasury role and Minister for the Public Sector.

“The PSA forged a good relationship with former Treasurer and now Health Minister Jack Snelling and we would expect that to continue under the watch of Premier Weatherill,” said PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon.

“We were particularly delighted with the Premier’s commitment, given on the day of the reshuffle, to respond to the challenges that threaten South Australian jobs.

“Many of those jobs are in the public sector and we expect, in the lead up to the 2014 election, to engage in detailed discussions with the Premier, and indeed all parties, about policies of relevance to the public sector,” Ms McMahon said.

“The PSA is committed to protecting the public sector’s critical role in servicing the South Australian community, and protecting those workers who deliver the services.”

Jan McMahon with Premier Jay Weatherill

THE RIGHT TO KNOW PSA demands Parties to detail job and service cuts

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

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

The PSA is demanding that both Government and Opposition 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 Commission cut 5,500 jobs, closed the Lump Sum Superannuation Scheme, privitised and outsourced and brought in a wage freeze.

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 understanding that truth.

far

from

In an apparent momentary accident of honesty, the Opposition 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 providing services amidst growing demand.

How we will face this challenge 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

being in the black or in the red.

These decisions impact 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 challenged.

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.

NEW HOLIDAY PENALTY RATES DESERVED

HOSPITAL SECURITY GAINS TRACTION

BEST LEGAL/ INDUSTRIAL WIN FOR WORKERS AWARD

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PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW FEBRUARY 2013

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Secretary’s Column MIND THE GAP

HERE IS WHY WE ARE MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE ASSOCIATION!

By Jan McMahon

By Lindsay Oxlad

T

he new year is well and truly underway, as is the countdown until the next state election in March 2014.

If anyone was in any doubt, the recent Cabinet reshuffle was a strong signal from the Premier that the Government is well and truly in election mode.

There have been a number of noticeable changes in recent times. The Government under the new leadership of Premier Weatherill set about deliberately changing its approach towards the PSA, following on from the PSA’s success in the Hold This Government to Account campaign.

Gone was the arrogance, replaced with improved dialogue and accessibility to key Ministers.

We trust that this improved relationship continues with the new look Cabinet.

As the public sector faces future challenges it is imperative that we work together to address them. PSA members, people who are at the coalface of service delivery to the South Australian community, have the experience and knowledge to make a difference and should be included in future planning about jobs and services.

The Cabinet changes see the Premier taking on an expanded role. Included in his portfolio are the roles of Treasurer and Minister for the Public Sector. Both are sure to be key issues in the election.

The Premier, by this move, has indicated he is taking personal responsibility for the Government’s performance and future policy in these critical areas.

He has the opportunity to make a real difference and stand as someone with a vision for the public sector. This can potentially set him apart from the Opposition who have already indicated they will call for an Audit Commission if they win Government (which will only come up with recommendations after the election). The 1994 Liberal Audit Commission resulted in the loss of 5,500 jobs, a wage freeze, privatisation and the closure of the Lump Sum Superannuation Scheme.

Review PUBLIC

President’s Column

All political parties need to be up front about their plans for the sector before the election. The community deserves no less than to know what they are in fact voting for.

Will it be for improved services or longer queues? Will it be for innovation and excellence or slash and burn?

The PSA is already committed to campaigning to protect services and conditions of employment, such as job security. Critical to this is ensuring the public debate is honest and transparent. If either party wants to cut jobs, they should be prepared to say which jobs (and therefore services) will go.

It is not only politicians who need to be convinced. A number of organisations are joining the chorus calling for public sector job cuts. We need to ensure the public are not fooled by ideology or empty catch phrases.

To this end the PSA has launched its Mind the Gap campaign. The campaign is directed to highlighting the growing gap between public sector services and public sector workers providing those services. The statistics clearly show while the South Australian population has grown over the past two decades, the number of public sector employees providing services over the same period has fallen.

No one should be forced to fall in the gap when it comes to accessing public sector services.

This election campaign has to be about our public sector. I am not talking just about PSA members, but about the whole community. We all have a vested interest as the beneficiaries of a quality public sector. Rather than be an easy target, we need to ensure that the public sector is so valued by the community, that political parties approach any cuts with extreme caution.

We will be asking every South Australian to Mind the Gap and stand up for a quality public sector.

W

e recently received the following letter from a long term PSA member and friend Rex Phillips and I thought I would share it with everyone since it expresses more clearly than I could what being a member of the PSA is all about and why being a member is important.

“Dear Jan, The time has come for me to full fill another chapter in life and retire.

I wish to thank you and Lindsay and the other PSA officials and staff who have looked after my industrial and welfare interests.

As you and others are aware, prior to working in DPTI and joining the PSA as a rank and file member, I was active as a rank and file member and office holder of the train drivers union for decades and then eventually being elected as the Secretary of the Australian Federated Union of Locomotive Enginemen (AFULE), which at that time it was the world’s oldest and longest continuous rail union).

I make the following statements and observations.

The rights of workers have been significantly eroded over the past decade or so, the Howard Government policies such as “Work Choices” and others brutally attacked ordinary Australian workers and their family’s conditions and living standards The Labor party also lost their way

during this period of time; they started getting more conservative.

The PSA as history recounts did not “Roll Over” it stood its ground and challenged not only the right wing Howard’s, Costello’s and Abbotts of the world, but also the ALP. The PSA acted “Without Fear or Favour” when actively trying to protects its members and other workers conditions, this resulted in some nasty attacks upon our union, but as we said at the time “2, 4, 6, 8 lets ex-Foleyiate” and we did.

The Weatherill Labor Government here in South Australia is bridge building, and not doing to bad a job, they will still need to be reminded by the PSA of what we expect from them from time to time, but the signals look promising.

Jan, Lindsay and team, keep up the good work, the struggle is worth it, and to all my fellow union members, whether in the PSA and elsewhere, educate the young ones and non unionists, remind them of the struggles we went through to achieve the conditions that they enjoy today and remind them that there are forces out there who are always trying to take our conditions away.

Regards Rex Phillips PS; I will be continuing on as an associate member of the PSA.”

Thanks Rex and all the best for the future!

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/sa Tel: (08) 8205 3200 Fax: (08) 8223 6509 Toll-free: 1800 811 457 Email: nm@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 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]

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW FEBRUARY 2013 P3

New Holiday Penalty Rates Deserved Attacks and continued lobbying by some Business groups and the Hotel Industry to remove or reduce the new penalty rates for workers on Christmas and New Year’s Eve will be fought by the PSA. The new rates, covering two new “half day” public holidays are a necessary protection and proper reward for many members who work these nights away from their family and loved ones in service to our State.

For working the recent Christmas and New Year’s Eves they received a pay boost for the hours between 7pm and Midnight, as these times are now a part day Public Holiday.

The PSA believes this is fitting

for the effort and sacrifice being made by these members on behalf of our community, and will fight to retain this new entitlement.

The PSA supported the Government in its bid to introduce the legislation for these new holidays which were opposed by the Opposition.

Key areas involved for the PSA included Health and Corrections where the vast majority Christmas and New Year's eve work occurs, although many other members are also required to work and these were highlighted in discussions with media and politicians.

The campaign was conducted jointly with other unions, each focussed on their affected areas of membership.

The changes were ultimately supported by an unusual alliance of the PSA, other unions, Government,

Business SA, the Greens, Dignity4Disability and Independent MLC John Darley.

ay n A o o r a r h d

Retention payment Final details regarding the nuts and bolts of the retention provision negotiated by the PSA are being released.

The provision was contained in the last Budget with legislation passed by Parliament late November and Gazetted early December.

The provision recognises the need to retain and reward longstanding members of the public sector and was sought by the PSA after the Rann Government stripped

entitlements.

The entitlement applies with effect from July 1, 2011 to employees with 15 years or more of service, and who were employed on or after July 1 2012.

The provision allows: s &OUR WORKING DAYS PER YEAR to be taken as leave, with the employees able to elect to “cash out”; s 0RO RATA FOR PART TIME employees;

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period for taking the leave of five years.

The provision is being phased in with an entitlement of two working days per year for the first two years, three days in the third year and four days from the fourth year (2014/15) and thereafter.

The additional leave will not be able to be taken as leave until on or after July 1 this year.

Requests to “cash out” similarly cannot be made before then, but must be received before August 31 this year.

Further details are yet to be finalised and will be advised as they are determined.

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PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW FEBRUARY 2013

ASO1 SURVEY The PSA has argued for ASO1 members to be progressed to ASO2 and has given input to a survey delivered to ASO1 employees as the review into Administrative Service Officer level 1 continues.

The survey aims to gain a better picture of the roles and duties currently undertaken by ASO1 staff.

The PSA is arguing that in many instances, long-serving ASO1 staff

are performing higher duties but being denied the opportunity for progression to ASO2 and beyond.

The survey determines age, department, length of service as an ASO1, current job title, educational qualifications, employment status, hours worked, and predominant duties.

It also determines if the member has acted at a higher level in the past year and if so, at what level and for how long.

And it examines what, if any, career development planning management has undertaken.

The PSA encourages members to fill out and return the survey.

The review into ASO1 roles was initiated by the PSA and a working party is progressing the matter.

A similar examination of level 1 School Services Officers is being undertaken by PSA. “The PSA was concerned that for too long these staff were denied

the opportunity for advancement and wage increases,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.

“All too often it seemed that workloads

and

responsibilities

increased without a commensurate recognition on pay day.

“This review should go a long way towards quantifying this reality and addressing this injustice.”

DCSI Underpayment The PSA is continuing to work to properly quantify and ensure proper payment of Recreational Leave Loading within the Department for Communities & Social Inclusion (DCSI).

The PSA has been negotiating with the Department for some time

regarding the underpayment of Rec leave for shift workers.

DCSI recently advised that the underpayment was less significant than initially thought, but the PSA has expressed concern at this statement as it is believed the breaches have been in existence for several years.

PSA is determining the

correct methodology to calculate underpayments and expects they should be rectified early this year.

In the meantime the PSA has also had to take the Department to task for interfering with the nomination and election of PSA Worksite Representatives.

PSA has also advised senior

management that Reps had been denied reasonable time to perform their PSA duties and attend union meetings and members had been denied access to union training leave.

Management has assured the PSA these practices will cease and the PSA is monitoring the situation to ensure they do.

Professional Indemnity Insurance requirements clarified – Allied Health Professionals The Public Service Association (PSA) has been seeking clarification regarding the issue of professional indemnity insurance for Allied Health Professional (AHP) members.

AHPs registered with AHPRA are required to have professional indemnity insurance that meet requirements stipulated

by AHPRA. Some members received advice from agencies that they should purchase such insurance to ensure they were covered to the required level.

Advice has recently been received from SA Health that clarifies this for those who are registered through AHPRA, and this advice is also relevant for unregistered AHP disciplines and AHPs employed in

other agencies. The SA Health advice is paraphrased below.

AHPs employed within the SA Public Sector have professional indemnity cover under the South Australian Government’s indemnity and insurance arrangements for any civil liability claim that arises from services provided to public patients/ clients, in accordance with their employment contract.

The professional indemnity cover provided under the Government’s indemnity and insurance arrangements is on an occurrence basis and therefore applies regardless of when the claim is made and regardless of whether the AHP leaves the public health sector’s employment through resignation or retirement. An AHP employed by the Department for Health and Ageing does not need to purchase run off cover.

The Government’s indemnity and

insurance arrangements only covers services provided by an AHP to public patients/clients during their employment in the public health sector. Run off cover will therefore need to be arranged to cover services provided while employed in the private sector.

No financial limit applies to the cover provided by the Government, which therefore meets AHPRA requirements.

An AHP may be required to respond to correspondence from an allied health Board, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency or other body such as the Health and Community Services Complaints Commissioner in relation to complaints and disciplinary and other associated matters (eg unprofessional conduct; breach of professional codes or ethics).

The Government’s indemnity and

insurance arrangements do not cover AHPs for these matters.

While allied health Boards do not require AHPs to have insurance for these matters, the Boards strongly recommend that they arrange sufficient cover to meet the costs associated with dealing with these matters.

The Department for Health and Ageing’s Insurance Services will provide confirmation of cover to individual AHPs, on request.

The Manager, Insurance Services within the Department for Health and Ageing can provide further information on professional indemnity cover provided under the Government’s indemnity and insurance arrangements, if required by employees of the agency. * See page 9 for AHPRA negotiations

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW FEBRUARY 2013 P5

TAFE protections The change of TAFE SA to a statutory authority has now been completed following the passage of the TAFE SA Act through Parliament.

Throughout this period of change, the PSA has been strongly advocating

for the preservation of rights and conditions for all TAFE SA members.

NEGOTIATED %" LUMP SUM payment and pay increases.

The change should, as a result, have no material impact on members.

Their leave credit has been transferred and all wages and conditions are the same as when TAFE SA was part of DFEEST.

They are still covered by the same Enterprise Agreement and Award, are still able to receive the same recently

“This was a well monitored and

managed period of change.â€? “PSA is satisďŹ ed the negotiations were ultimately conducted properly and that no member will be disadvantaged as a result.â€?

Mid Year Budget Review In the December mid-year review of the Budget, Treasurer Jack Snelling announced a fur ther 1% “eff iciency dividendâ€? which will inevitably lead to service cuts “The Government would be misleading the public if they even tried to say that another 1% efďŹ ciency dividend could occur without affecting so-called frontline services,â€? PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon told the media. “For every administrative job they

cut it simply means a nurse, a doctor, a teacher, a police ofďŹ cer is actually going to have to pick up that role. The work doesn’t go away.â€?

Among the Treasurer’s bad news were: * Extra 1% EfďŹ ciency Dividend from next ďŹ nancial year * DFEEST signiďŹ cant cuts (extra MILLION * 50 Communication ofďŹ cer jobs cut across Government * 90 Environment policy jobs cut

2EDUCTION MILLION LABOUR contractors (PSA demand is

Enterprise Bargaining Outcomes Enterprise Bargaining for members in WorkCover, Schools and SA Lotteries has resulted in overwhelming support.

The December ballot for the proposed Schools and Preschools Agreements resulted in a 96.3% yes vote.

That new Agreement provides PSA members with: s ! NEW YEAR %NTERPRISE !GREEMENT s X PA GENERAL SALARY INCREASES ďŹ rst full pay period on or after 1 October 2012, 1 October 2013 and 1 October 2014; s 3CHOOL 3UPPORT 3TAFF 3CHOOL Services OfďŹ cers/Early Childhood Workers/Aboriginal Education Workers, new criteria based INCREMENTS OF

s )MPROVED PAID -ATERNITY AND Adoption Leave;

s %NFORCEMENT AND #OMPLIANCE clause; s -ODES OF %MPLOYMENT IT IS proposed to include new deďŹ nitions of full-time, part-time, temporary and casual applicable to SSO and ECW employment. !T 7ORK#OVER OF ELIGIBLE staff voted with 92% voting in favour of the new Agreement. !ND AT 3! ,OTTERIES OF THE eligible staff voted, with 71 of the 72 voting Yes. “What has happened at SA Lotteries, with the transfer to Tatts, highlighted the importance of being a member of a strong union.â€? “These members have been protected and will enjoy the same improvements in pay and conditions as other members throughout the State.â€?

for staff to be employed by the Public Sector as work still needs to be performed).

The PSA is concerned that services already stretched to the limit will be further reduced.

The increase of the efďŹ ciency dividend by 1% from next year will result in reduced services for families across South Australia.

PSA expects that with the South Australian population increasing that the numbers of those providing services must also increase, not be cut. “The extra 1% EfďŹ ciency Dividend is a savage blow,â€? Ms McMahon said. “It will not deliver efďŹ ciencies, it will reduce services.â€? ! TOTAL OF MILLION WILL BE slashed from the public sector over the next four years, including the new 1 per cent "efďŹ ciency" target for departments.

The Government will also cut contracting jobs, mostly in clerical SERVICES TO SAVE MILLION Higher education and training GRANTS WILL BE CUT BY MILLION So-called "streamlining" of the environment and transport DEPARTMENTS WILL SAVE MILLION 4HE 'OVERNMENT WILL ALSO CUT million in payments to the Murray Darling Basin Authority.

There will also be a cut to the

number of Government boards and COMMITTEES SAVING MILLION “We’ve seen over the past 20 years the public sector reduced by more than 20,000 people,� Ms McMahon said. “Yet at the same time we have had an increase in our population of 200,000. “And the number of services required have also grown. “The maths is fairly simple. A growing population and fewer people providing services equals fewer services. “We need as a society to have this conversation. We need to discuss what is considered essential to our society and what is not. “Ask a hundred people if they want fewer public servants and many will say yes. “Ask the same hundred people if they want to cut medical services, or the way we teach our kids, or how we stop criminals, or if they want to wait longer and longer for fewer and fewer services, and virtually none of them will say yes. “That is the disconnect in the debate. And it is one the PSA will continue to address. “We need to be building a public sector for the future on this basis, not merely on the simplistic cut, cut, cut philosophy.

P6

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW FEBRUARY 2013

Death by a Thousand Cuts 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,

by Warren McCann in his role as an 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

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.”

Mental Health Dispute Just days before Christmas, the PSA entered into dispute with SA Health over an appalling lack of consultation.

PSA asserted SA Health had failed to properly comply with the requirements of the Enterprise Agreement and sought immediate consultation and action to remedy.

The dispute centred over the proposed transfer of governance of Southern Child & Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) to

the Women’s and Children’s Health Network (WCHN).

The PSA received advice of this intention via email on December 6.

The email stated that the transfer would occur on December 17.

The PSA acted immediately, asserting that appropriate consultation had not occurred and that there were outstanding matters SA Health had failed to respond to.

Under the Enterprise Agreement employers are required to consult with

the PSA before making significant staffing arrangement changes such as these.

It states consultation “involves the sharing of information and the exchange of views between employers and persons or bodies that must be consulted and the genuine opportunity for them to contribute effectively to any decision making process. This includes consultation with the applicable Union whose members are affected.

“Employers and Agencies consult in good faith, not simply advise what will be done.

“Workplace change that will affect a significant number of employees should not be implemented before appropriate consultation has occurred with employee representatives.

“Employee representatives will be given the opportunity to adequately consult with the people they represent

in the workplace, in relation to any proposed changes that may affect employees' working conditions or the services employees provide” This dispute was heard in the SA Industrial Relations Commission on December 13 and 14.

The parties involved were SA Health, the PSA and other key health unions.

The Commission recommended that “during the next six weeks the parties agree, as a matter of priority, to continue to consult on the issues surrounding the changes to the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. The document prepared by the Unions identifying twelve issues of concern shall form the basis of the consultation.”

PSA will keep members informed of the progress of this consultation to ensure they are not harmed by this transition.

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW FEBRUARY 2013 P7

Hospital Security Gains Traction The PSA-led push for a secure ward for prisoners in the new Royal Adelaide Hospital is steadily gaining traction.

Recent media reports of patients already being forced to give up private rooms to make way for inmates has fuelled the debate.

They reported that a number of private and public patients who had been in single rooms had been relegated to multi-bed wards in order to free rooms for prisoners needing attention.

This prompted the Editor of The Advertiser to write that a secure facility was “vital at RAH”.

“News from patients of the Royal Adelaide Hospital that they are being forced from private rooms and into shared wards as prisoners take their

beds is concerning,” the Editorial said.

“While Correctional Services and health authorities have moved to assure patients that their care and

facility to house prisoner patients as is available interstate.

“Given the questions raised in recent times about the use of restraints on prisoners in hospital care, it would

“It is really so obvious a need that it is almost beyond belief that an argument needs to be made for it.” safety will not be compromised, there looks to be little long-term planning for a solution to the issues those patients have raised.

“Plans for the new RAH do not provide for a purpose-built secure

seem logical to address two pressing issues of prisoner and patient care with such a facility in our new hospital.

The PSA commends The Advertiser on this support for a secure facility.

While such a secure ward has been ruled out up until now, continued lobbying and pressure by the PSA and other groups will maintain the fight for this very logical and cost effective outcome.

“We have long argued, and will continue to argue, that when you are spending billions of dollars on a new hospital it should include such a secure area for prisoners.”

“It’s a health issue, a safety issue for staff and the public and a security issue for Correctional Services Officers.

“It is really so obvious a need that it is almost beyond belief that an argument needs to be made for it.

“Other States have recognised the need and acted. It is time our State did the same while the opportunity is there.”

P8

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW FEBRUARY 2013

PSA receives 'Best Legal / Industrial Win for Workers' Award The prolonged strategic campaign to fight cuts to PSA members’ entitlements has been recognised with an award.

PSA President Lindsay Oxlad accepted the Best Legal/ Industrial Win for Workers Award at the SA Unions Award ceremony.

“This Award recognised the fact the PSA was willing to use all available avenues to protect members,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.

“The PSA campaign for long service entitlements was about trying to look after hard-

working members, who had lost an entitlement that was protected by an Enterprise Agreement.

“We took the fight to the public and to the courts, including the High Court.

“The win there sent a strong message.

“We were, and remain, committed to members’ rights and entitlements and the principles of fairness and equity.

“The PSA High Court win sent a message to Governments that they must respect industrial agreements for workers’ entitlements.”

PSA President Lindsay Oxlad with Minister Hunter receiving the 'Best Legal/Industrial Win for Workers' Award

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.

HOLIDAY HOME AVAILABILITY - MAR TO MAY 2013

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

March

April

May

Glenelg

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20 - 26

4 - 10

K. I.

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18 - 31

Mannum

1-8

6 - 12

1 - 31

Pt Lincoln

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18 - 31

Pt Vincent

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.

16 - 22 –––

6 - 12 20 - 30

1 - 31 –––

Robe

2 - 29 –––

6 - 12 27 - 30

1 - 31 –––

FOR INFORMATION CALL 8205 3200 OR TOLL FREE 1800 811 457

Goolwa

2-8

27 - 30

1 - 31

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.

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW FEBRUARY 2013 P9

w e Safety N

Protections New legislation protecting workers at work came into effect from January 1 this year.

The Government’s Work, Health and Safety legislation was passed by parliament late last year after months of lobbying and negotiations.

The successful passage through parliament came despite many months of delays and attempts to derail it by some employer lobby groups and their supporters in the Legislative Council.

The PSA believes this is the most signiďŹ cant development in SA’s workplace health and safety laws in more than a quarter of a century.

Making it happen involved extensive negotiations with Government, other parties, independents and SA Unions.

Among the more signiďŹ cant

changes included in the Act are: 1: The introduction of a new type of duty holder – the PCBU, or Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking. This change attempts to capture the reality that the operation of industry

the risks and direct the work should be responsible for the management of those risks, irrespective of the employment relationship.

2: A duty on “OfďŹ cersâ€? - senior management ofďŹ cials within

“This is the most significant development in SA’s workplace health and safety laws in more than a quarter of a century.� and the nature of work have changed dramatically since THE S )T ENSHRINES THE principle that those - mainly corporations - who create

both the private and public sectors - to exercise due diligence on workplace health and safety issues.

3: Right of entry provisions that

enable union ofďŹ cers to enter workplaces to assist workers in resolving workplace health and safety concerns.

4: A substantial improvement in training leave entitlements for Health and Safety Representatives.

5: A range of new offences, with the most serious attracting lNES OF UP TO MILLION FOR corporate law breakers. “This is a long overdue piece of legislation which harmonises our laws and protections with those of other States.� “As times change, laws need to change also to keep pace with altered circumstances of work and new dangers. “This legislation will provide greater safety and protection to members for many years to come.�

Lotteries Sale The PSA has been working hard with members at SA Lotteries to protect their current and future employment rights and conditions in the wake of its transition to operation

by Tatts.

Treasurer Snelling announced the 40 year transfer deal on November 27, stating that the move was necessary to generate funds amid growing competition from internet gambling and other state lottery organisations.

In subsequent negotiations the PSA was able to gain assurances that members would retain their

entitlements as public sector employees and that there would be no forced redundancies for nonexecutive employees.

The PSA held several well attended meetings of members and met with Tatts and Lotteries SA management.

The goal of the PSA throughout this difďŹ cult time of change has been to ensure protection of job security and to keep as many options available for members as possible.

These aims have been achieved with detailed commitments from Government, Tatts and SA Lotteries.

AHPRA Negotiations Negotiations are underway with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) for an Enterprise Agreement.

AHPRA is negotiating Agreements on a state by state basis. In South Australia agreement has been reached for PSA/CPSU members on a number of matters, including no forced redundancies, minimisation of use of labour hire, meaningful consultation, exible work arrangements and training.

P10 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW FEBRUARY 2013

PSA DISCOUNT SERVICES PSA MEMBERSHIP SAVES YOU MONEY!

“In addition to industrial Services, DQG D JUHDW UDQJH RI RWKHU EHQHĂ€WV available through the PSA Ambassador Card, PSA offers more discounts to save you money everyday!â€?

Jan McMahon, General Secretary Nev Kitchin, Assistant General Secretary

5% Discount

Metro Ticket

10% Discount businesses including As a PSA Member you are entitled to discounts from major nts also apply to discou orths Woolw Coles, Woolworths and Harris Scarfe. y’s and BWS. Murph Dan Tandy, Smith, Big W, Woolworths Caltex, Dick

unt Card To receive these discounts you need to purchase a Disco IURP WKH 36$ WR SUHVHQW DW WKH VSHFLĂ€F EXVLQHVVHV s.

Your PSA Ambassador Card cannot be used at these outlet (For enquiries please contact the PSA on 8205 3200 or email

discount@cpsu.asn.au)

PSA Website: www.cpsu.asn.au ry, 122 Pirie St, Adelaide SA 5000 Authorised by Jan McMahon, PSA General Secreta

I addition to the full range of industrial services In pprovided to members, the PSA also enables members tto benefit from significant discounts to a wide range oof services. The PSA Members Handbook includes ddetails of the benefits provided by the Ambassador C Card issued to every member and the PSA Trade Concessions Scheme.

C H However the highlight of non-industrial benefits pprovided to PSA members has been the Discount Services scheme. This scheme provides discounted gift g cards for Woolworths (including petrol stations and liquor retailers, Dick Smith and others), Coles, Harris Scarfe and others. Then there are the useful discounts that apply to Metrotickets (including the new MetroCARD).

The fact that these offers have been a great success benefitting many members is attested to by the facts.

Shortly, the PSA will have been responsible for over

WORTH OF (ARRIS 3CARFE CARDS ALONE )N FACT

turnover for the the whole Discount Service scheme IS OVER MILLION FOR THE PAST YEARS ALONE The scheme returns no money to the PSA - every discount involved is passed onto members in its entirety. Another reason to be a PSA member and to stay a PSA member.

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW FEBRUARY 2013 P11

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE For Sale - BACK PACK - BRAND NEW, Nitro Day Pack “Black Diamond� Orange Colour, 35 litres, purchased from Scout Outdoor Centre. ONLY $60. Please phone Karen 0429 089 256 For Sale - Sony PS Vita (Wi-Fi). Brand new, unopened, won in competition. $275 ONO. Ph: Jeff on 0433 271 952 For Sale - Toyota Camry CSI Wagon, automatic 1994 model.

10 months registration. Excellent condition, complete service records. $3400 o.n.o. Contact Adrian or Therese on 0414 689 724.

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 Spanish Dancing Shoes, size 71/2 and Black Practice Skirt size 8-10 (all for $70.00). Alto Saxophone for $200.00. Ring Helen on 0401 120 632 anytime.

Wedding Dress - Size 10, beaded bodice, satin to ground, low back, huge satin train inc, long sleeved, absolutely stunning gown. $25 o.n.o. Contact Sue on 84492368 Hills swing set with slide - $500 o.n.o. Just dismantle and it is all yours for hours of fun for you and your kiddies. Contact Ange Higgs 0434 074 674 (Gawler Area) For Sale – Back Pack.Deuter 30ltr Slimline daypack (female fit): Weight 1600g.. Rear ventilation. Hydration pocket & opening with tube clip. Bottom compartment with removable separator to enable use as one. External bellow zipped side pockets for maps, brolly flask etc. External mesh side pockets. Small centre rear zipped pocket.

Internal & external pockets in the lid. Integrated rain cover. Loops for poles & ice axe. As new $80. Ph Kate 0400 284 255 For Sale – Black Wolf Tent. Turbo Lite FS 300. 300 x 300 x 210cm. Packed size 121 x 28 x 33cm. Weight 15.3kg. Polyethylene floor. New ‘D shaped zip’ bag for ease of packing. Can be erected by one person. Used once only, $400. Reluctant sale.

Ph Kate 0400 284 255.

For Sale - Collins - Factory Racing Motorcycle One Piece Leather Suit. In very good condition. Perforated front. Only worn half dozen times to break-in the leather. Never been raced, so no marks on them. Size: US 44, EU 54. If it's not a pick-up/cash, for payment use Paypal. $390. For postage please add extra $30 - will send by Registered mail. Australia only.

Contact Peter: 0411 810 858. Location: Campbelltown. SA REAL ESTATE TIMESHARE FOR SALE - 2 b/r apartment $3000 o.n.o.

Call John on 0418 307 142 for further enquiries RENTAL ACCOMMODATION Work in Murray Bridge? Sick of commuting? This 1 b/r self contained unit is available for $90 p/w (unfurnished) or $120 p/w (furnished). Ring Jen on 0412037968 for more information.

HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION Moonta Bay Fully self-contained unit. Open plan living area, full sized kitchen, split system r/c a/c, colour TV, automatic washing machine, 2 bedrooms (sleeps 7 including sofa bed). Prices start from $80.00 p/n. Phone 0403 959 809

Carickalinga - Stylish holiday home. 3 b/rs, 2 bathrooms, modern kitchen, r/c air conditioner. Fully furnished and equipped including dishwasher, TV/DVD, bbq. Located on Carickalinga Rise with panoramic coastal views. $170 p/n. Min 2 nights. Contact: 8357 0587 or 0439 800 978

BLACK DOGZ SHACK The current featured property is located 98 Purnong-Mannum Road, approximately 20 minutes upstream from Mannum. This stunning river front residence with modern furniture through out is positioned right on the beautiful River Murray. In the heart of some of the best water skiing area of South Australia. Enjoy the beautiful views of the River Murray whilst enjoying the 2 level home. Top level features 4 bedrooms, 1 king, 2 queen and 1 double/single bunk, formal dinning, large lounge, fully equipped kitchen, bar area, main bathroom and ensuite in master bedroom. 2 plasma TV’s one in the lounge and the other in the master bedroom. Surround music system, R/C airconditioner and fire place for cozy winter nights. Upstairs has a beautiful outside deck entertainment area. It also features clear blinds when nights get cool and gas heating is available. Ground level features games room with 2 leather futon beds, Plasma T.V., air hockey/snooker table, soccer table and even a table tennis table.

Laundry and bathroom. Also available are 2 single foldout beds if needed. This property also includes a fresh water system, BBQ facilities, paddle boat and 2 wave skis. Landscaped surrounds and plenty of undercover parking. This property sleeps up to 12 people.

Applications subject to approval by landlord. Priced from $880 per night Minimum 2 night stay. Bond Applies. 3 bathrooms, 4 bedrooms (sleeps up to 12), Carport (fits 6 cars) FURTHER INQUIRIES: SUZIE PAGNOZZI 0414867420

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 MARION BAY YORKE PENINSULA -Wywurry Beach House Stylish three bedroom elevated pole frame beach house a few minutes walk to the long sandy beaches of Marion Bay and only five minutes to the walking trails of Innes National Park. Spacious open plan living with views over scrub, the salt lakes and Innes National Park. Quality modern furnishings and fittings throughout. Features include: Split system rc air con, 50 inch plasma TV, DVD / CD player/radio/iPod dock, books, games, some CD’s and DVD’s provided. Flat screen TV main bedroom. Fully equipped kitchen, tea and coffee provided. Three double bedrooms, master bed ensuite 2 way bunk beds third bedroom.

All beds have pillows, quilts with covers and blankets provided. Need to bring own sheets and towels. Gas BBQ, outdoor setting, native gardens and birdlife, Dual driveway access suit 2/3 cars and a boat.

Marion Bay is a three hour drive from Adelaide along the scenic Yorke Peninsula. Very reasonable rates from $100 per night . July - September Special, stay 5 nights pay for 4. Contact JENNY on 0431 259 503 or email jenny@thebatesnet.com. “OCEAN BREAKâ€? - MIDDLETON - Centrally located at Middleton, is an inviting home with beautiful, bright beach style dĂŠcor.

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 Victor Harbor - Smuggler’s Inn - Crozier St. Holiday Unit to Rent. 2 Bedroom - Double & twin single, Fully furnished, Air Conditioning, Television - DVD Player, Swimming pool, Breakfast kit included, 250m to Granite Island, 3.5Km to Endeavour Bay, Close to all facilities. For Further Inquiries or to make a Booking Call DIANNE on 0406 705 071 OR/ MICHELLE on 0414 088 301 Pricing From $100 per night (4 people) off Peak. **Prices subject to change during Easter long weekend

DE-STRESS IN CHORD

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

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.

THE AMBASSADOR CARD UPDATES 2013

ADDITIONS ADELAIDE AND SUBURBS

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Don’t forget you can use your card at Campbell’s Cash and Carry at North Plympton and Pooraka.

Show your Membership Card to the checkout operator.

Not valid for the purchase of liquor.

Auspicious Beauty & Massage

The Buff Club

Professional Beauty Therapist with several years experience. Mobile service available for women located in the Western suburbs.

0H www.adelaidebeauty.com.au Present your Membership Card at Cooinda Clinic to receive 1 hour Swedish massage for only $50. Save 20% rebate on all mobile manicure services (Western suburbs only). Valid for use of card holder only. Bookings essential.

INFO BY EMAIL

ADDITIONS 3TUART (IGHWAY 3TUART 0ARK Valid Lunch & Dinner 7 days. Save 20% off the TOTAL FOOD BILL UP TO THE VALUE OF

Golden Orchid Thai/Chinese Restaurant -ARINE "LVD #ULLEN "AY Valid Lunch & Dinner: Monday thru Friday. Save OFF THE TOTAL BILL UP TO THE VALUE OF Not valid lunch specials or take away food.

FEDERAL WEBSITE CPSU

[[[ GTWY WTWJ EWR EY The federal office for State public servants, the CPU-SPSF (State Public Services Federation) has launched a new website, and all PSA members are encouraged to contribute material.

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.

The website has general interest areas, an online journal “The Public Interest�, a links page and specific sections for women, schools, higher education and corrective services.

As well as being a useful site to ‘bookmark’, website co-ordinator Ryan Heath believes your views and experiences need to to be up in writing to make the site work.

If you have anything from a book review to a campaign victory in your workplace to report, email: lgruit@spsf.asn.au.

P12 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW FEBRUARY 2013

-J ]SY NSMR E RSR QIQFIV MR ]SYV EVIE RS[ YWMRK XLI JSVQW FIPS[ XLI] ERH ]SY [MPP UYEPMJ] XS FI MR E HVE[ JSV E [IIOIRH IEGL EX E 47% '479 LSPMHE] LSQI 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

□□□□ □□□□ □□□□ □□□□

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 ____________________________________________________________________________________________

Review

PSA Training Program 2013 go to www.cpsu.asn.au/training s 0UBLISHED SIX TIMES A YEAR

eview Review ReviewReview PR remier M Restorin eetin PUBLIC

PUBLIC

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2011 st 2012 ary Augu Febru

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s &ULL COLOUR PAGES s $IRECT MAILED

s 2EGULAR FEATURES

August 2011

or the fact e Court has doesn’t change out of pocket now The Suprem an sion for of their members are granted permis following because of the actions heard, ns employer. appeal to be is against ial Relatio and That clearly the Industr ining parking negotiations Court determ arrangements the spirit of ents. and fees on of agreem from the actual issue a conditi the Apart are not ed by an by the Court, have protect with dealt employment will now Agreement. the health system related issues if Enterprise that deal with er of

to turn its back on that agreement and its employees and literally change the rules.

“Only a Governme nt as an employer can do this, and it raises very serious questions about the validity and worth of any future last Budget, agreements made when he slashed with any Government.” long service leave, cut leave loading and threatened job The manner in which the security, he also Government drastically chose to legislate undermined the away agreed working whole basis of good faith and entitlemen negotiations. rights ts is the subject of a PSA High Court challenge.

By destroying that process – by stripping away rights and The outcome entitlements agreed of that challenge the Governme inevitably have to by will nt only months a bearing on before, how future finalised in an negotiations are Enterprise Agreemen and conducted. was certified t that Alternatives to by the Industrial the previous Relations Enterprise Commission, Agreement process he created a significant may involve problem for future negotiatio arbitration by the Industrial ns.

Relations Commissi Negotiations achieve legally on to for the next EB binding outcomes, are due to start early next and to allow for considerat year with an agreement ion of the value commence during due to entitlements. of lost 2012.

The PSA is giving This would be consideration a time consuming to approach to how adversarial approach, and any future negotiatio but would result ns, and examining future legally binding in a options.

Award.

“Once you have Also, arbitration a situation, where may be a means union on behalf a applying a value of of its members to specific entitlemen negotiated an has and can be proven ts agreement which to have a value is signed off by both sides, – that is, if elements of in good faith, an overall agreed under all applicable law, package (e.g. tenure) you would expect are removed, stand.” that to compensation required. is “What has Arbitration, happened is unlike that the Government, an Enterprise Agreement, does a few months “The change not require the later, decided in Governme consent of the employer nt leadership may have an impact to the outcome. on relations and potential negotiations.”

Public Supp ort

And many would be happier to see taxes rise, rather than services and jobs cut.

The research was conducted by Dr James Whelan, Public Service Research Director of the Centre for Policy Developm ent.

EXPERIENCE MUST BE REWARDED Page 5

s .EWS AND VIEWS

u n au asn.a

www.cpsu.

really employment that benefit of

A majority of South Australians have positive view of a the work performe d by the Public Sector, new research shows.

s 4RAVEL AND ENTERTAINMENT

n

g Trust Hospital Parking Decisio

Former Treasure r, Kevin Foley destroyed “good faith” for future enterpris in negotiations e agreements day he moved to cut agreed rights the entitlements by and law rather than through the enterprise bargaining process.

In his

for Public Se ctor

He found that despite many making “a sport politicians of kicking public

the community servants” has “positive attitudes the public service towards and would like strong, healthy to see a and sustained service”.

Dr Whelan’s

research looked years of attitudinal at surveys and found 20 consistently throughou that, t that time, wanted to see people services well funded.

“In fact, one of the interesting findings was that when people were asked if they wanted to pay more tax in order to increase the funding available for public services, health and education like and so on, the majority of Australians supported that,” he said in a media interview.

Dr Whelan said that an examinatio n of

NO SHIPPING CONTAINERS

Page 7

The Governme nt’s new leadership opportunity to have the restore trust and move forward positively.

commentary on the Public Sector contained in Hansard, the official record of Parliament, revealed that three quarters was negative derogatory. or “It’s really curious to contrast the attitudes expressed by politicians towards the public service, and attitudes of the general community.”

SA GOVERNMENT SUPERANNUATION FEDERATION AGM Page 8

A June 2012

www.cpsu.asn.au

SA Can’t Afford

argued to The PSA be an employ fees on it wants to of parking imposition litan health choice. at metropo going to stealth, members of staff is a pay cut by Retention future, critical in facilities was the clause of the d be even more not only suffer recent State and breache which protected staff Budget delive shift as hospital a mix of bad Agreement n, but many ns. had not been and good news. red a pay reductio streets as they existing conditio it was a cut walk dark A cut of need to mainta willing to accept the workers vehicles argued of PSA 1000 jobs from their not be allowe conditions “efficiency and a new travel to and to avoid the new couple of yearsin a deficit for the next existing dividend” d in site instead of i.e. budget of cutting moreto be a backdoor means were the bad parked off a surplus. aiming for cut that employment. news items held jobs. the Court charges.

Sector. for the Public “If Depart Executive, “However, “If that had condition Chief has The was not a start cutting ment or Agency heads The good news it was a job cuts would been the case, then the car parking of Health, ent rather staff to find be ment, Departm we need to Retention Provisi was the win of a new .” of employ no steps woulde or and the impact have been much harsher rs enjoyed know about this money, advised that on community to introduc possible so it as soon benefit membe outcome after on – a very pleasin will mean much more at present we can put as services appeal g taken decision prolong the dire.

The a stop to it.” ed negotiations working pending (see separat The meetin its and other increase fees e story). be has reserved that this, following resolutg also passed need to Regarding outcome Healththis if the appeal the the arrangements, future wages and ion: job change cuts, the PSA has advised in right to iously. addressed heard expedit negotiations. meetings and Government – both can not be n conditions in via the media was a conditio to jobs are Whether it unsustainable. – that cuts the “We can’t afford Sector into Public to lose the worker Public Sector from s,” Public valuable staff ent. interviewed General Secreta Service Association or retirem on being to attract people private sector ry Jan McMah Jan McMah struggling PSA Gener media on said. l Secretary “Morale is al Secretary, “We are already PSA Genera ment. Regular as well faltering, Jan McMa are growin for Govern workloads workers to work g, the whole hon Public Sector Increasing system is is not helping breaking point. attacks against n cutting, at – spending the “efficiency dividen and conditio The PSA as budget cut d” ng recognises that.”

“That this meetin departments – from 0.25% to 1% for Jan McMaho Sector followi global econom the to reverse will also severel g of PSA Worksi for n with Premier of the Public Representativ ic conditions difficult future, the scope of In defence calling, again, nationa g for the te es express and needed service y reduce l reduction a er, plannin at further job media reports es concer on wrote in GST revenu the people in need s and leave Foley 2010 will be enough string of Any employ McMah a n there Ms It notes, es. behind.

Budget in of jobs, however, that sure that Government cuts, but notes that expansion. by partisan conditions winning back Meetings of a slashing must make the ser. economy is the Australian has chosen a change and n of employment.” aphs public attacks The Adverti against rather than cope with deficit Budget Regular were held at Worksite Representative column for with photogr all other faring well against proper retentio people to community even s The PSA have is placed, greater ers the busines s almost urge pointed ees PSA and regiona and service nations and of the cuts to jobs recognised Prominently the article day after the who now Wise employ miss the point. segments s.

Sector employ significant indicators for that it was lly the Budget was protest actions, in Public Sector place. Those workforce will s completely of Public that Govern the future are economic in coming ees are “This meetin delivered. from recent Retention policies in crisis PS job number ment is willing cut its Reps were to accept a big issue to a true PS employ bright. lack We be a the our ment g to don’t is deficit Budget welcom announcement live in a while at out where the Govern cry out when in an shaping up all feedback asked to ensure that The reality . understand vacuum, we population, lies.

Sector “The PSA of a new es the the first the years. regarding the results that.

Provision with is our entire employment in Public be among played an influen Retention d massive n policy the job and months and the impact of recognising ageing, as in services e retentio is a crisis that. two,” is a projecte already flagged avert We budget tial role are Budget provide adequat there has recogn “There contrib to of cuts flows to time submissions ise that the the PSA. ution PSA membe the valuable The PSA In fact there Government the same back to that cuts of have been must be done inability of public sector rs make to the that more employment. thousands and pointed out worse if the cuts could population. economic in future. very brisk. on page 3.....

They were Government growth in and the South jobs is not stated. thousands of Government is already steps we will infrastructure Continued amidst altered and staff rapid column commu in for crisis the Australian years only answer nity. that the “efficie particular advised taking some a looming Competition ional and in coming s. .

“Without Future meetin of profess ncy dividen and demand dramatically tions, “Members projects see a drain ns negotia conditions d” should It will increase are to be congra actions needed gs will decide further and mining continue to and conditio to ucture for up wages their campai lead infrastr tulated During as a result and in the as major Budget as gn efforts Ministers continue since the the true impact of this meetings with PSA will come on stream. ever more becom Budget, the plain.

State es the next issue. t this vital to highligh

HIGH COURT BATTLE

FRONTLINE MEETING FOR MINISTER

Page 6 Page 4

PSA MEMBER LIA IN AUSTRA S DAY HONOUR

RETENTION WIN

LIST

Page 10

Job Cuts

“It is easy for jobs and mon politicians to simply say is what servi ey. What they need to com we will cut ces they will be slashing as e clean about a result.”

n Vital Retentio

Page 4

DECEMBER 2012

g EB WIN

The PSA leadership team met with

Premier Jay It was made clear to the week after the Weatherill in the that this would Premier latest State in the deliver create severe difficulties Budget.

The PSA y was represe statements, an unsustainableof services and have meeting by nted at that not Preside impact on simply cutting by Chief Executives for members.

General Secreta nt Lindsay Oxlad, workloads more jobs.

The Premie ry Jan McMa r is aware The PSA also and Chief He was also hon background Industrial of the advised that to these negotia was closely from the Budget discussed a positive Officer Peter Christopher. the PSA ill-will created tions and the of the “efficiemonitoring the impact the new retentio – the introduction of by the 2010 Grave concer Foley Budget ncy dividen n scheme.

“It is importa ns budget were . d” – i.e. the Premie expressed cut. The PSA nt that this Enterprise Bargain r about the to willing to Premier is clear that these has additio ing was discuss job cuts that have these with the savings must made it discussions ed had been announnal 1000 PSA the PSA,” by genuine acknowledging be made with PSA ced. this process efficiencies that changes consist McMahon said. General Secretary Jan or was underw ay with the ent with the program Government Treasurer’s agreeing to “Full and continuation a Single Parity frank discuss of Agreement. essential at ions are the highest levels this does not happen again.” to ensure The

MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS

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The overwhelming vote in favour of acceptance of our new EB was a pleasing end to sometimes difficult negotiating circumstances.

Starting from a position of distrust, due to previous breaches of good will and fair dealings, the PSA was able to ensure a strong, secure, enforceable agreement which protects and improves rights and entitlements.

The lengthy process which resulted in this outcome involved hundreds of meetings at worksites around the State as we sought members’ input and listened to concerns.

“The final very pleasing outcome of these efforts through such a huge “Yes” vote, was a strong endorsement on the content of the EB and the

process we undertook,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.

“The fact that we negotiated with this new Government leadership, with genuine dialogue and no need for dispute was a good outcome.

“In tough economic times, we have achieved a very positive outcome for members.

“It is a significant outcome and we can be very pleased that things are back on track.”

From the outset, the PSA sought a fair and reasonable salary increase, protection of existing conditions, job security, improvement of conditions, better workload protection and enforceability of the agreement.

“We ticked every one of those boxes,” Ms McMahon said.

The PSA required and secured a shorter 2 year Agreement (until June 30, A 2014) and it includes job security.

“With a State election due in March 2014, neither Government nor Opposition will commit yet to future job security for a longer term.”

“The PSA was not prepared to have a longer Agreement that did not provide job security for its entire length. The next Agreement will be negotiated in the run up to the next State election.”

The Agreement provided all those involved with a $1,000 bonus

plus 3% (October 2012) plus 3% (October 2013).

Improved conditions included extra travel time for Regional professional development, additional paid maternity leave and partner leave.

All existing conditions were protected and additional requirements have been placed on managers to

ensure safe and proper workloads.

In accordance with the Fair Work Act, following the strong positive vote, the Agreement has been certified by the Industrial Relations Commission of South Australia.

“We thank all those involved in these prolonged and often difficult negotiations,” Ms McMahon said.

EB Actions Many other EB negotiations, for those areas not captured by the main Enterprise Agreement negotiated with Government, are continuing.

have commenced as they have for members working in Electoral Offices, Parliament, Forestry SA, West Beach Trust, Adelaide Festival Centre Trust, WorkCover and SA Lotteries.

Three year Agreements for Minda, Novita and Red Cross staff were negotiated last year.

Within our schools, negotiations

The PSA will continue to push these negotiations along in full consultation with members to ensure an equally solid outcome.

Review PUBLIC SECTOR 'RENEWAL'

SAVAGE CUTS TO HEALTH

2012 A YEAR IN REVIEW

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