PSA review september october 2013

Review PUBLIC

SECTOR

www.cpsu.asn.au www.cpsu.asn.au

August 2013 2011 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

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”.

OPPOSITION LEADER Opposition

Leader

Steven

Questioned on job cuts and job security,

Marshall addressed the September

he advised that Opposition cuts and

meeting of PSA Council.

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.

NEW SA UNIONS’ GOALS

SSO WEEK

NEW RAH

CELEBRATIONS

UPDATE

Page 4

Page 5

Page 9

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...

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PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

Secretary’s Column INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

JOB CUTS HAVE SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES

By Jan McMahon

By Lindsay Oxlad

T

he role played by the public sector is not the same as any other organisation.

Unlike corporations whose existence is profit motivated, the public sector’s very basis is the provision of service to the community. It’s a role that is vital to the wellbeing of a civilised society.

Without an effective public sector providing universal services, the very things that we take for granted will be lost.

While non-government organisations offer wellintentioned support to specific core groups, they remain under resourced and are not designed to meet the needs of the broader community in the same way the public sector can.

Reducing services, as proposed by business lobby groups and others, is a near-sighted approach that would see the pressures on the community grow exponentially over time. Queues would grow, waiting list would become longer and people in need would become more vulnerable.

Demands for public sector cuts are motivated by a corporate mindset and a short-term “slashing mentality”, without any real consideration for the impact on South Australian families. At

Review PUBLIC

President’s Column

what cost to the community as a whole and to our future?

It’s simply not good enough for those of us who care to allow these views to go unchallenged.

Investment in the public sector, by retaining the valuable services that are already in place, will ensure prosperity and security for all South Australians.

This investment should not be limited to the people who work in the public sector but should extend also to the public infrastructure that delivers for all South Australians.

In the lead-up to the next State Election, we simply cannot allow debate over the public sector to focus simply on the budget bottom line. A rational debate must include discussion on the kind of society we want for the future, and the range of services needed to deliver that. Likewise, we should not tolerate a lack of detail from those who hold the future of public sector services in their hands.

Together, we need to “mind the gap” that is growing between demand for services and the people and infrastructure needed to deliver them.

W

hile the chattering classes in the business lobby continually urge the Government to slash jobs in the public sector they seldom if ever acknowledge the consequences of such a policy for families and the community at large.

Against this background it was interesting, at recent meetings of the PSA Council, to hear both the Premier and the Leader of the Opposition acknowledge they view the public sector as an asset to government and not a liability or cost, as others would have us believe.

Both acknowledge the success or failure of government’s policy agenda is wholly dependent on the people they employ in the public sector and on their commitment, professionalism and motivation to deliver the services the community rightly expects.

Premier Weatherill and Opposition Leader Steven Marshall were both forthcoming with their commitment to developing a high performing, flexible, innovative and modern public sector capable of delivering the diverse range of services that are increasingly demanded, and indeed needed, by the community.

However, when it comes to ensuring job security and the retention of tenure and also to not reducing the workforce by culling jobs, there is no such commitment.

While the Premier’s Change@ South Australia initiative, which

aims to rejuvenate the public sector, is a step in the right direction it needs to gather momentum and be implemented across the public sector in all agencies to gain credibility.

Equally, the Opposition Leader’s desire to reorient the public sector from a focus on serving the political needs of the government and ministers to a focus on serving the people of South Australia suggests the party has gone beyond the shortsighted and ineffective slash and burn policies adopted by the Newman Government in Queensland.

In the lead-up to the March State election the PSA will be pressing both the Government and Opposition to spell out in detail what they see as the role of the public sector.

Importantly, PSA will be seeking answers on how they will develop and nurture the public sector so that it can effectively handle the challenges of delivering their policies and programs without the overhanging threat of job cuts and redundancies.

South Australians expect the government to provide them with high quality services, delivered by a dedicated, talented and capable public sector that is focused on the needs of the community rather than promoting the political popularity of the government.

As we have emphasized time and time again, the public sector comprises Real People doing Real Jobs that deliver Real Value to the community.

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 4.

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

Vision Statement THE PSA WILL ACHIEVE THIS BY: • ensuring job security for members • membership involvement

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.

• effective management supported by trained professional staff • continual improvement of its operations • improvement of members’ wages and working conditions • provision of industrial support and other valued benefits to members • promotion of the vital role of the public sector in the economy and community.

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 P3

Public Fears Public Sector Cuts New research has revealed significant public concern about increasing job and service cuts in the Public Sector.

The research, in the form of a survey, was conducted by independent company Square Holes.

It investigated the attitudes and perceptions of South Australians aged over 18 in relation to the State’s Public Sector.

PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said the results were consistent with warnings issued by the PSA over recent years.

“You cannot create a gap between the number of Public Sector workers and the ongoing growth in population and not expect there to be service decline,” she said.

The research found most respondents were concerned about thousands of Public Sector job cuts being shed.

Most expected the negative consequences to include “growth in waiting times”, “service levels dropping” and “services becoming stretched”.

The majority also agreed it was irritating when Labor and Liberal use the promise of “reducing

Public Sector jobs” in an attempt to appeal to voters.

“This should act as a very clear warning to both major parties that South Australians have had enough of the political rhetoric and they want to see an end to the slashing of jobs and services,” Ms McMahon said.

Among other key findings were: • 78% recognition that the Public Sector has an important economic and social role to play as the State’s largest employer; • 76% of those surveyed value the role of people working in the Public Sector; • 65% believe there is a widening gap between Public Sector services and the growing and ageing population.

“The PSA will maintain pressure on both major parties to provide an open and clear vision for the future of the Public Sector ahead of the next election.

“We will accept nothing less than complete transparency on the issues of job and service cuts, job security and other matters relevant to Public Sector policy.”

PSA AGM The Annual General meeting of the PSA was well attended by members on August 23.

They heard a full report from the PSA’s auditors who gave a positive report and thanked the PSA for its co-operation.

HPS0164_PSA Review 125x90.indd 1

KPMG’s Paul Cenko presents report

4/06/13 11:41 AM

MIND THE GAP PEOPLE 1991: 1.4 million

people needing service

2012: 1.6 million

people needing service

SERVICE 1991: 115,700

public service workers

2012: 103,649

public service workers

Have you fallen in the gap between the growing population and the shrinking public sector? Jobs are being cut. Services are being eroded.

There are now less workers servicing more South Australians than 20 years ago.

Express your concerns at mindthegapsa.com.au

Authorised by Jan McMahon, General Secretary, PSA, 122 Pirie Street, Adelaide 5000

P4 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

New SA Unions’ Goals SA Unions, the umbrella organisation of unions in our State, has recently released a new mission statement document positioning it for the future.

Former SA Unions’ Secretary Janet Giles and Premier Jay Weatherill

The document, Building Our Future, acknowledges the changes our society and workforce are going through.

And it provides a clear set of goals to meet that future - goals the PSA certainly agrees with and strives to achieve.

They include: • Fair, safe working conditions and decent wages for all.

• Strong unions supporting working people and contributing positively to the future of our State.

• A fair share of the wealth created by the State’s mining expansion.

• Secure, long-term jobs.

• A strong education and training system and a more highly skilled workforce so people are prepared for the jobs of the future.

• A focus on developing skills and creating jobs for local people, not importing skills through temporary visa arrangements.

• Fair treatment of workers from other countries.

• A place in which Aboriginal people share the economic opportunities and jobs in our community.

• A State in which corporations are required to be good corporate citizens, operate in the interests of all South Australians and give back to the community.

• Infrastructure investment that builds our economy and supports our community.

• A place which allows people to have a balance between life and work.

• A valued Public Sector providing high quality services.

Austerity Fails New research has clearly demonstrated that austerity measures adopted by some nations in the wake of the GFC have failed abysmally.

The PSA believes this should ring warning bells for all major Australian political parties in the wake of the Federal election and lead-up to the State poll.

The research report was created by the Australian Workplace Innovation and Social Research Centre. It found that Public Expenditure cuts in Europe and

the US had resulted in negative or weak economic growth.

In its key findings it states austerity has failed because: • Government debt has continued to increase • Reduced demand in economies has intensified the recession and the theory of “growth friendly” fiscal consolidation had been discredited • Negative or weak economic growth has prevailed and the private sector has failed to fill the gap in investment created by significant reductions in

Public Sector expenditure • With trading partners also in recession export-led growth had been stunted.

Economic and social effects of austerity have included: • Soaring economic costs – the loss of output, reduced wealth, unemployment and government intervention and support runs into trillions of dollars in the US alone • 5.5 million young people unemployed in the European Union alone • 2.2 million Public Sector job

losses following deep cuts in spending in the UK, US and Spain alone • Cuts in wages, benefits and pension reducing take-home earning by up to 20% • Closures and business failures plus bankruptcy of several US towns and cities • House price slump leading to large-scale foreclosures • Health services closed and patients facing increased charges and longer waiting times • Increased poverty and widening inequality.

The report, Unmasking Austerity - Lessons for Australia, is available on the PSA website.

Premier Meets PSA Council ..... continued from page 1..... policy objective was not to use forced redundancies and that this should be achievable through proper management of temporary contracts, reduced external employment, natural attrition and Targeted Voluntary Separation Packages.

It would only be after exhausting these avenues that any potential involuntary redundancy would occur. The Premier

underscored that this should not be necessary.

The PSA continues to make it clear that members see job security as vital, and this was reinforced by Councillors at the meeting with the Premier.

PSA Councillors raised questions and made comments on a number of matters of importance to members. These included job security, members’ difficulty accessing

leave and flexible working arrangements and inefficiencies caused by insufficient staff. Mr Weatherill invited the PSA to specifically advise him of further details.

Mr Weatherill saw Change@SA, which he has initiated, as playing a significant role, given its aim to foster efficiency in leadership and involve everybody in the success of the Public Sector.

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 P5

SSO WEEK CELEBRATIONS The PSA held its 9th Annual School Services Officers Conference in August - an event which is always very popular and well attended.

The conference is a central part of the annual SSO Recognition Week – established to ensure SSOs are valued as a crucial part of the education workforce.

Part of this recognition will include an improved classification structure for SSOs enabling more transparent means of progression.

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

Presenters aimed to facilitate discussion and assist in developing ideas to bring SSOs together to achieve more.

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PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

“Big Society” Impact “The founding principles of public services, namely universal access, delivery according to need, services free at the point of use, and services delivered for the public good rather than for profit, should be at the heart of any model of service delivery.”

Conservative groups in Australia and internationally have adopted a new campaign strategy called “Big Society”.

This aims to reduce the role, scope and breadth of Government and the Public Sector.

The Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) has undertaken a review of this concept, examining its influence in the UK and Australia on the

provision of public services.

It found that, as a deliberate strategy, the “Big Society” push is being presented as a communitybased, grass roots ideology.

“Big Society” language is inclusive, equitable and appears to empower the people, citing the value of community in a healthy, happy “Big Society”.

Simultaneously it represented Government as intrusive, unwieldy, incompetent and inept.

The three core elements of the “Big Society” as adopted in the UK are promoted as: • Empowering Communities • Opening Up Public Services • Promoting Social Action In reality, however, the “Big Society” is more about privatising the social welfare state on a massive scale, cutting back on public services by either

tendering these out to private companies or using community based volunteer labour to plug the resulting gaps.

The services provided by Australia’s Public Sector are not discretionary commodities. They are public goods that provide core welfare benefits, not only to service users but wider society.

The ACTU holds that the founding principles of public services, namely universal access, delivery according to need, services free at the point of use, and services delivered for the public good rather than for profit, should be at the heart of any model of service delivery.

Health Partners Continues to Grow From little things big things grow – and that is certainly true for a number of South Australian institutions founded by the PSA.

Fellow directors Deane Prior and Nev Kitchin

Members may be unaware that one of them, now known as Health Partners, officially opened for business as the South Australian Public Service Association Hospital Fund in 1937.

At that time the fund only provided hospital cover to members of the SA Public Service Association and their families.

Now, 76 years on, Health Partners is not only the largest SA-based health fund, covering 80,000 people, but it has the largest private dental and pharmacy scheme in the State as well.

Recently the board of Health Partners approved the next phase of its expansion by buying a new multi-storey “home” at 101

Pirie Street. That building is now undergoing renovation but will become a one-stop-shop for Health Partners’ members.

Other PSA creations which continue to go from strength to strength include the People’s Choice Credit Union – formerly Savings and Loans – one of the biggest credit unions in the nation. It too is growing and a new headquarters is under construction.

The PSA also set up its Legal Services Scheme, in conjunction with the Legal Services Commission, and it continues to grow and develop.

And the PSA holiday homes, started as a service to members, continue to be very popular.

They will continue to expand as the years go by to be enjoyed by another generation of members and their families.

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 P7

Counting the Cranes The sight of numerous cranes on a city skyline is often considered a sign of economic health and community development.

Any crane spotter visiting Adelaide would be excused for concluding then that much is happening here – and they would be right.

Public infrastructure spending underway in Adelaide is in the billions of dollars with projects ranging from the new Hospital and Oval redevelopment to major road and rail redevelopments.

It is perhaps worth reminding ourselves that these projects do not just mysteriously occur.

They involve many years of planning and development before the first crane is erected, and a large Public Sector input throughout the process.

This role of the Public Sector is not often recognised but it is a vital part of building our community.

Similarly, the overall impact of public expenditure on such projects as a means of stimulating

our economy and providing vital jobs is not always recognised as it should be.

There can be little doubt during the ongoing fallout of the Global Financial Crisis, that public expenditure on major infrastructure works has played a

pivotal role in keeping this State

creation by such means as having

moving forward.

a quicker, safer commute to work

If not for this expenditure there

or a better hospital.

would have undoubtedly been a greater loss of jobs.

The people of our State benefit directly from public infrastructure

We also benefit indirectly through the benefits to the private sector and employment this work creates.

Cranes erecting the new Royal Adelaide Hospital on North Terrace

ASO Progress Progress is being made in the PSA fight for recognition and reward for long-serving ASO1s.

The PSA has been pushing for a more readily accessible and transparent path from ASO1 to ASO2, and development of a trainee pathway.

This is bearing fruit via an ASO working group which has now had its recommendations agreed by senior management and the Premier.

The Classification Long-term ASO1 Report Recommendations specifically relating to ASO1

progression that have been approved are: • Introduce mechanisms to streamline career progression to transition from trainee to ASO2 with meaningful barriers in place. This will also mobilise ASO1 employees; • Introduce a competency and capability based assessment system for career progression to support the above and to support the objective of regular performance management and development.

The report identifies the next step as development of

proposals for streamlining career progression from trainee through to ASO2.

As part of this overall progression process, a survey of ASO1s was undertaken.

It revealed that 70% of respondents had never been offered any staff development opportunities and had never been through a performance development process.

“It is very clear Chief Executives need to be encouraged to provide development opportunities,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.

“The report has also shown a very clear need for the Public Sector to increase the number of trainees employed and to ensure appropriate training and development continue to be provided to them.”

The

Premier

has

strongly

supported the recommendations relating

to

the

employment

of trainees and has requested Premier and Cabinet to provide a strategy for the employment of

300

youth

January 2014.

trainees

in

P8

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

A Voice of Change The PSA Council recently heard an address by Erma Ranieri, appointed by Premier Jay Weatherill as Chief Executive of Change@South Australia.

Ms Ranieri said her organisation “aims to energise the public service based on collaboration across agencies,

build a strong values base and put citizens, community, business and industry at the centre of our work”.

Among her goals are to: • Foster a confident and more skilled workforce attuned to citizen-centric service delivery; • Build on the proud legacy of service and excellence;

• Develop behaviours and skills that replicate success; • Deliver results at lower cost with a culture of innovation and productivity.

The PSA supports meaningful change, but expects it to occur in the context of proper resourcing.

Erma Ranieri

Upper Spencer Gulf Visit A visit by PSA Industrial Officers to the upper Spencer Gulf recently helped to deal with concerns raised by members.

Meetings were held with members in the Port Augusta

Prison, Disabilities SA, Housing SA and Families SA. At the Prison, discussions centred around a perceived breach of agreement about cell management as well as staffing and rostering issues.

And at Families SA significant concerns were heard about the “redesign” process of the Department.

Members reported feeling that regional centres were being overlooked in the restructuring and thus further marginalised.

They also raised concerns about a probable increase in the administrative burden, with workloads already being reported as large and cumbersome.

The PSA will continue to work with members in regional centres.

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 P9

Health Cuts Hurt The pain from significant cuts to the health budget is being felt across an ever increasing range of services.

While doctors and nurses largely remain quarantined from the cuts, the reality is far different for allied health professionals, technical and administrative staff who form the backbone of the service.

These cuts are affecting almost all health members, in all health facilities in the city and regional areas.

The impact on services is inevitable and underway.

The PSA is hearing from members

across the State, in all fields, about cutbacks in service delivery.

In some instances this takes the form of a reduction in opening hours.

In others it is a failure to replace staff. More rarely, but increasing in number is the complete closure of particular services.

PSA members are concerned that more and more people in need are beginning to fall into the gap between what is needed and what is being delivered.

Other issues faced by members include an ever-increasing growth in workload with many reporting unsustainable demand for them to

work unpaid hours.

Access to leave is also being denied for an increasing number of members, and the Department’s alleged desire to provide work/life balance has been a casualty.

Allied health and support staff are leaving the system and many are not being replaced.

People are going, but the workload remains – an increasingly unbearable workload.

Goodwill is evaporating rapidly

and once it is eroded – and staff stop working unpaid hours and doing more than they should or can - the real scope will be revealed.

We are an ageing society with an increasing demand for health services. We need to recognise this and debate the true impact of cuts.

New RAH With site work now underway at the new RAH, the PSA is continuing to examine the plans and discuss staffing issues.

Work at the adjacent SA Health and Medical Research Institute is nearing completion, at least externally, giving some glimpse of what this new medical precinct will look like.

Much more detail is still needed, however, about how staff, as well as patients, will be dealt with in the new hospital and what facilities they will have.

Staffing levels, and who employs the staff, are also subjects of ongoing debate and conjecture.

What staffing vs patient ratios will be, and what role the private sector will have in service provision are subjects of active discussions at a number of levels.

Similarly, how the transition from the old to the new is to take place – a complicated process to ensure patient safety – is also a topic of considerable discussion.

The PSA will continue to work to ensure the new hospital is not only a vast improvement for patients, which of course is to be hoped, but also for staff and visitors.

P10 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

PSA and Police Association Sign MOU The PSA and the Police Association of SA (PASA) have renewed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) until the end of 2015.

The MOU enables sharing of information in protection of members of both unions working within SAPOL. It aims to prevent any demarcation disputes and foster an environment which encourages maximising the rate of union membership.

Under the agreement the PSA will continue to be entitled to recruit and represent the industrial interests of all persons employed in an administrative, clerical, professional, technical or support capacity as well as any speed camera operators who are not sworn members of the Police Force.

The MOU was signed by PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon and PASA President Mark Carroll.

PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon and PASA President Mark Carroll sign the agreement

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 : OCT 2013 - JAN 2014

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

October November December January

Glenelg

12 - 31

1 - 30

1-6

–––

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

K. I.

–––

–––

7 - 13

–––

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.

Pt Lincoln

12 - 18

–––

–––

–––

Pt Vincent

1 - 31 12 - 31

1 - 30

1 - 13

25 - 31

Robe

26 - 31 5 - 31

1 - 30

7 - 27

25 - 31

Goolwa

–––

–––

7 - 13

–––

Wirrina

–––

2 - 15

–––

25 - 31

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

Mannum ––– ––– 14 - 27

11 - 17 25 - 31

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 P11

classifieds FOR SALE 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

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 - BACK PACK - Brand new, Nitro Day Pack “Black Diamond” Orange Colour, 35 litres, purchased from Scout Outdoor Centre.

ONLY $50. Please phone Karen 0429 089 256 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.

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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

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

All you bathroom baritones and tenors out there who would like to develop those voices and sing a range of music from Gershwin to Opera choruses to modern musicals and be a part of a group of people who have been involved in this for one hundred and twenty years (not the same people by the way). Apart from the pleasure of developing a broader musical knowledge, it is a great de-stresser and an opportunity to be a part of a group of interesting people with a variety of different occupations and hobbies. The Adelaide Male Voice Choir is always trying to improve and build on its qualities to bring in new members, or even just friends of the Choir. If you feel you would like to be a part of the living history of our State or would like to just come in and experience a practice night, please ring one of the following phone numbers: 8270 2628 or 8332 1895 – www. amvc.org.au

TIMESHARE FOR SALE - 2 b/r, 6 person, 1 week @ Goolwa. Holiday Concepts system - 9250 pts.

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DE-STRESS IN CHORD

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 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

As a member, you’re entitled to purchase gift cards at discounted rates from the PSA for the following stores: Woolworths Wish Card (5% discount)

“Ocean Break” - Middleton - Centrally located at Middleton, is an inviting home with beautiful, bright beach style décor. It is close to Middle Point and

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).

INFO BY EMAIL

Gift cards work like debit cards, with a set value that decreases with each sale.

FEDERAL WEBSITE CPSU

Increasingly, the PSA is providing information to members on industrial matters and other benefits via email. To ensure that you receive the very latest information, please let us know if your email address changes. Just send an email message to enquiries@cpsu.asn.au with the details and your membership record will be updated.

This card can be used at: • Woolworths Supermarkets • Big W • Woolworth’s Liquor • BWS • Dan Murphy’s • Masters Home Improvement (Interstate and Mount Gambier only) • Dick Smith • Woolworth’s Caltex Service Stations Coles Gift Cards (5% discount) Harris Scarfe CardSelected cinemas Full Range of Adelaide Metro Multitrips

www.cpsu-spsf.asn.au

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.

P12 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013

If you join a non-member in your area now using the forms below, they and you will qualify to be in a draw for a weekend each at a PSA/CPSU holiday home.

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

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Employment details

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.

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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.

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

Accounts

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PSA/CPSU membership subscriptions may also be paid by cheque, money order or cash.

If paying via this method, please make cheques and money orders payable to the PSA/CPSU.

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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)

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

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Review

PSA Training Program 2013 www.cpsu.asn.au/training • Published six times a year

eview Review ReviewReview PR remier M Restoring eeting Tr PUBLIC

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• Full colour pages • Direct-mailed

• Regular features

August 2011

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 allow for considerat and to 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 adversarial approach, and any future negotiatio to how 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

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

• Travel and entertainment • News and views

ust

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

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

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.

NO SHIPPING CONTAINERS Page 7

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

“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

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

cision arking De Hospital P

asn.au www.cpsu.

really employment that benefit of

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

Augus Junet 2012 2011

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

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. and good news. red had not been willing a pay reductio streets as they existing conditio it was a cut walk dark A cut of to accept need to mainta workers vehicles argued of PSA 1000 jobs the 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 a start cutting ment or Agency heads The good news job cuts would been the case, then the car parking of Health, ent rather it was 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 we can put as services appeal g taken at present prolong the dire.

The decision 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, are growin Jan McMa for Govern workloads workers to work g, the whole hon Public Sector Increasing system is is not helping breaking point. attacks against n cutting, the “efficie at ncy dividen – spending and conditio The PSA as budget cut d” ng recognises that.”

“That this meetin departments – from 0.25% to 1% Jan McMaho Sector followi global econom the to reverse for 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 Ms there 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 ser. the 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 PS job number ment is willing Reps were to accept a big issue to cut its a true crisis PS employ bright. lack We be a the our ment g to don’t is at deficit Budget welcom announcement live in a while 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 the same Government 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 infrastructure is already steps we will Continued amidst altered and staff rapid column commu in for crisis the Austra years only answer nity. that the “efficie particular advised lian 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 are to be congra It will increase actions needed gs will decide further and mining continue to and conditio to ucture for up wages their lead infrastr tulated During as a result campaign and in the as major Budget as efforts since Ministers continue the true impact of this the PSA will meetings with come on stream. ever more becom Budget, the plain.

State es the next issue. t this vital to highligh

“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 HIGH COURT BATTLE

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FRONTLINE MEETING FOR MINISTER

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PSA MEMBER LIA IN AUSTRA S DAY HONOUR LIST

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Job Cuts

RETENTION WIN

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MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS

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SSO

CONFERENCE & WOMEN'S CONFERENCE

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www.cpsu.asn.au

DECEMBER 2012

EB WIN 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.

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

Within our schools, negotiations

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

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

Review PUBLIC SECTOR 'RENEWAL'

SAVAGE CUTS TO HEALTH

2012 A YEAR IN REVIEW

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