PSA Review December 2012

Review PUBLIC

SECTOR

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 A Agreement (until June 30, 2014) and it includes job security.

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

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

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

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.

PUBLIC SECTOR 'RENEWAL'

SAVAGE CUTS TO HEALTH

2012 A YEAR IN REVIEW

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PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2012

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Secretary’s Column A YEAR IN REVIEW

A YEAR OF ACHIEVEMENTS AND SUCCESSFUL CAMPAIGNS

By Jan McMahon

By Lindsay Oxlad

I

have been so pleased over the past few months to be able to report to members on all of the achievements we have been able to secure over the past two years. The latest is the negotiation and certification of the South Australian Public Sector Wages Parity Enterprise Agreement which covers over 35,000 public sector workers.

The PSA successfully negotiated an agreement which included among other things; s *OB SECURITY FOR THE TERM OF THE AGREEMENT (expiring 30 June 2014) s ! ONE OFF PAYMENT OF s SALARY INCREASES IN /CTOBER AND 2013 s 0ROTECTION OF EXISTING CONDITIONS AND a clause to ensure enforceability of agreement s )MPROVED PAID MATERNITY AND ADOPTION leave s )MPROVED WORKLOAD CLAUSE s .EW #ORRECTIONAL /FlCER STRUCTURE s )MPROVED 7ORK ,EVEL $ElNITIONS FOR Allied Health Professionals, Medical Scientists and Grant Funded Scientists In an overwhelming endorsement of the agreement, the ballot resulted in an almost 95% YES vote. The PSA was able to negotiate this agreement without the need for a dispute and which addressed the threshhold issues which members had identiďŹ ed as critical through surveys and worksite meetings.

This is no insigniďŹ cant achievement. It is the result of months and months of preparation, discussions and negotiations right up until the day the offer was formally made. The Government should be congratulated for approaching the negotiations with common sense and being prepared to listen to what the PSA was saying.

The Parity Agreement also sets the benchmark for a number of other agreements, and the PSA will be ensuring that these ow on as soon as possible.

Review PUBLIC

President’s Column

One of the provisions of the new Agreement which was a high priority for members was a new and improved workload clause. Over the past 4 years we have seen successive budget cuts to public sector jobs.

An inevitable conclusion is that this means MORE WORK FOR THOSE WHO REMAIN $EMAND for services in many areas is increasing and we are seeing a population that is not only growing, but which has increasingly complex needs. In this context it was important to provide some workload protection for members. The employer has always had a duty of care for the health and wellbeing of employees, and now members and the PSA can request that a Chief Executive review workload allocation if it is believed that it is unreasonable. Importantly, the review must include details of how workloads will be managed.

This new provision amounts to greater accountability by agencies in how they allocate work. Still it will be up to members to ensure their good faith is not taken advantage of and that they raise the issue of unreasonable workloads as they arise. The PSA has developed a resource guide for members on what the new clause contains and how to effectively navigate through the process. Members can contact the PSA or their Industrial OfďŹ cer for a copy of the guide.

As we look towards the new year it is sure to be one in which debate about the size of the public sector is set to be prominent as both political parties begin jostling in the lead up to the 2014 State Election. The PSA will be ensuring that both parties are transparent about their plans for the public sector, in particular on the critical issues of jobs, services and job security. PSA members deserve nothing less.

Finally, to all members, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year. Thank you for making this year such a success. Your contributions, involvement and support are invaluable and I look forward to working with you again in 2013.

T

he past year has been marked by the PSA and our members recording a significant number of achievements as a result of strong and determined campaigning throughout 2012.

If ever there was a time where being a member of the PSA was justiďŹ ed it was last year with the reversal of the Rann Government’s decision to unilaterally remove leave loading, reduce long service leave entitlements and threaten to scrap its “no forced redundancyâ€? policy. All these were achieved thanks to the campaigns driven by PSA members and the members of other public sector unions who joined with us.

The change to Premier Weatherill and his government and the retirement of Rann and Foley brought a fresh, more pragmatic and less confrontational approach and a signiďŹ cantly improved relationship with the PSA. It was at last possible to progress member interests in a less confrontational environment and achieve outcomes that were mutually beneďŹ cial and at the end of the day beneďŹ ted South Australian families during these tough economic times.

The favorable High Court decision formed the springboard for repairing the failures of the Rann/ Foley era, regarding lost long service leave entitlements, with the PSA now waiting on a Supreme Court $ECISION The new Retention provision recognises the damage done by the reduction of Long Service Leave for long serving members.

Added to those achievements, the PSA successfully negotiated a new Enterprise Agreement that met its

requirements for a fair and reasonable wage outcome, protection and enhancement of employment conditions, a guarantee of enforceability and the Government’s recommitment to the “no forced redundancy� policy without the offset of further job cuts and reductions in services for the community.

While it is acknowledged that the Government faces a challenging budget situation that will demand prudence and the full support of public sector workers at all levels in all agencies, the days of the mindless slash and burn approach are clearly over. The Premier, Treasurer and Minister O’Brien are to be commended for their actions in driving a new approach to the management of the public sector.

And in particular reducing the numbers of employees who are unattached and in strongly resisting the calls to abolish tenure in the public sector from the self appointed champions of business who seem to have no other useful ideas on how to boost the State economy or improve productivity.

I should also place on record my thanks for the continued support of you, our members, and for Jan McMahon and her team in the PSA as well as all our Councilors and Worksite Representatives.

Without your support and encouragement it would not have been possible to achieve the outcomes that we have nor would it be possible to continue to do so in the future.

I wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and a relaxing and safe break over the Christmas and New Year period and that you return reinvigorated to meet the challenges that will confront us all in 2013.

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 46, number 4.

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

Vision Statement THE PSA WILL ACHIEVE THIS BY: ˆ IRWYVMRK NSF WIGYVMX] JSV QIQFIVW ˆ 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.

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

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2012 P3

Public Sector “Renewal” Senior PSA leadership met with Premier Jay Weatherill and Minister for Public Sector Michael O’Brien in late September.

$ISCUSSIONS INCLUDED THE DESIRE of the Government to “re-new” the Public Sector.

While it is easy to be cynical about yet another such statement by a Government – after all they are not infrequent – the PSA believes this may be different.

“Governments have a long history of announcing commissions, reviews, probes, razor gangs, committees etc as a means of having someone else to blame when they cut services,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.

“This time, it appears possible that there is a genuine desire to effect positive change.

“The PSA has welcomed comments by the Premier regarding the vital role of the Public Sector, as reported in the media and made in personal statements to us.

“His well thought out and reasoned approach to the role that Public Sector workers play in our community is a welcome change from the ongoing mantra from some that cuts are the only option.

“Over the past 20 years the population of South Australia has increased by 200,000 people, yet the Public Sector has been reduced by 20,000 over the same time frame. The PSA has continually highlighted this.

“The comments by the Premier, supported by The Hon. Michael O'Brien as Public Sector Minister, reflect the recognition that how work is undertaken is more important to service delivery than simply

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cutting jobs.

“The PSA looks forward to a genuine capacity to work together with the Premier and Minister O’Brien to deliver good and cost effective services to South Australians.

“Meaningful discussions about service delivery will occur while at the same time the PSA is looking after members.

“A Public Sector for the future deserves such an approach.”

P4

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2012

Redmond WRONG Even Isobel Redmond can’t believe she said it, and quickly withdrew her comment about drastically cutting the public sector.

Sadly, the PSA fears she was merely telling the truth – by accident.

Cutting 25,000 to 35,000 Public Sector jobs would be a disaster for this State.

"It would result in a wholesale collapse in vital services across the board."

"Schools, hospitals, emergency services nothing would be immune and no-one would be spared by cuts of that scale.

"Any such cuts would be fought vigorously and are considered an attack on the most vulnerable people in our community who need help."

The PSA was quick to challenge Ms Redmond’s statement, and within hours of her making it she backed away from her comments, clearly concerned about the backlash that would follow such cuts.

A nagging doubt remains that her statement was genuine, however, and that it is indeed her party’s intention, should it win Government at the next election, to massively slash Public Sector numbers.

This is despite previous attempts by the PSA to relay the true nature of the Public Sector to the Opposition.

“We have explained that Public Sector employment numbers are already at historically low levels at a time of increasing population and demand.”

"The Public Sector is already cut to the bone

with services struggling to survive.

"Cutting employees by one quarter would have a dire impact.

“What we need is some proper and genuine debate in our community about the role of the Public Sector, rather than the simplistic slash and burn approach.

“What Isobel Redmond said was totally unacceptable.”

Savage Cuts to Health Calls to savagely cut health spending are simply not justified economically or socially, a report commissioned jointly by the PSA and the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation finds.

Professor William Mitchell from the Centre of Full Employment and Equity at the University of Newcastle prepared the report: “The South Australian Hospital Budget Performance and Remediation Review – Critical Appraisal.”

It examines the findings of a series of financial reviews into hospitals and local health networks commissioned by the Government.

“The background to this Review is the fact the Government believes that

revenue that is currently being endured has structural elements which is implied by the State Government’s claims that health outlays are unsustainable.

“It is normal for the revenue side to deteriorate when economic activity is reduced and at present the Australian economy continues to grow below trend as a result of the world economic crisis.

It is expected that as economic activity returns to historical trends and the property markets rebalance, that State taxation and GST returns will improve.

“Policy decisions relating to longterm service needs should not be based on short-run cyclical variations in budget outcomes. Fiscal sustainability at the State level has to be evaluated by appraising the long-term revenue and

“When comparisons are made using appropriate benchmarks, the South Australian hospital system performs well by national standards and is one of the lowest per unit cost systems in Australia.” the rapid growth in health spending

by SA Health over the last decade “is unsustainable in this environment” and that “significant expenditure reductions” will be required over the next three fiscal years,” the report says.

“A close examination of the State Budget suggests that it is questionable whether the deterioration in State

spending potential rather than making comparisons when economic activity is well below trend.

“There are long-term health care challenges in South Australia as a result of demographic change and the ageing of the population, which will require increased health care outlays in the next several decades.

“Short-run expenditure cuts to generate surpluses now in the hope that these surpluses will make it easier to meet the long-term needs is a myopic strategy.”

The report also finds that comparing South Australia’s health spend and “efficiency” directly with other geographically dissimilar States was useless.

“The South Australian hospital system is notably different when compared to the other major States.

“It provides beds to a highly urbanised population in Adelaide but also to outer regional and remote centres in greater proportions to the nation.

“Overall, the South Australian health care system delivers services to a large number of areas with small populations.

“Further, South Australia has a disproportionately large number of hospitals, which provide relatively low levels of acute service delivery but at the same time have to sustain the entire range

of skills that are required to ensure quality and timely services can be provided to acute care demands and emergency presentations.

“Taken together these factors mean that the cost advantages from scale are dispersed in the South Australian hospital system which vitiates against simple interstate comparisons.

“We find that when comparisons are made using appropriate benchmarks, the South Australian hospital system performs well by national standards and is one of the lowest per unit cost systems in Australia.

“While the consulting reports claim that the State’s system is inefficient and is over-staffed, a more balanced perspective, which takes into account broader performance indicators (defined in the National Health Reform Agreement) show there is no convincing case that can be made along those lines.”

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2012 P5

2012 Review PUBLIC

SECTOR

2011 aryt 2012 Augus Febru

A Year in Review

www.cpsu.asn.au

Hospital Parking Decision

benefit of employment really The Supreme Court has or doesn’t change the fact that granted permission for an members are now out of pocket appeal to be heard, following because of the actions of their the Industrial Relations employer.

Court determining parking That clearly is against fees and arrangements the spirit of negotiations and of on agreements. are not a conditi Apart from the actual issue employment protected by an dealt with by the Court, the Enterprise Agreement.

The PSA argued that the imposition of parking fees on members at metropolitan health facilities was a pay cut by stealth, and breached the clause of the Agreement which protected existing conditions.

PSA argued it was a cut in existing conditions of employment.

“However, the Court held that car parking was not a condition of employment, rather it was a benefit members enjoyed.”

The decision will mean that this, and other working arrangements, need to be addressed in future wages and conditions negotiations.

Whether it was a condition

n being interviewed

health system will now have to deal with related issues if it wants to be an employer of choice.

Retention of staff is going to be even more critical in future, as hospital staff not only suffer a pay reduction, but many shift workers walk dark streets as they travel to and from their vehicles parked off site to avoid the new charges.

Executive, Chief The Department of Health, has advised that no steps would be taken at present to introduce or increase fees pending the appeal outcome Health has reserved its right to change this if the appeal can not be heard expeditiously.

PSA General Secretary Jan McMaho

Retention Vital is Retention of Public Sector employees shaping up to be a big issue in coming months and years.

with The PSA has already flagged to avert Government that more must be done ic a looming crisis amidst altered econom conditions and demands. ions, negotiat ns conditio and During wages up to meetings with Ministers and in the lead continue the next State Budget, the PSA will issue. vital this t to highligh

Regular public attacks by partisan against segments of the business community point.

PS job numbers completely miss the are ees employ PS our The reality is while at ageing, as is our entire population, massive the same time there is a projected growth in population. brisk. very already is staff for Competition years It will increase dramatically in coming projects as major infrastructure and mining come on stream.

Any employer, planning for the future, enough must make sure that there will be on. people to cope with change and expansi n Wise employers have proper retentio urge now policies in place. Those who will ce workfor its cut to ment the Govern a lack be among the first the cry out when in an of adequate retention policy results services inability of Government to provide future. in and infrastructure will “Without taking some rapid steps we onal and continue to see a drain of professi

into the valuable staff from the Public Sector private sector or retirement. people “We are already struggling to attract media to work for Government. Regular as well workers Sector Public against attacks helping not as budget and condition cutting, is to reverse that.” g In defence of the Public Sector followin again, for a string of media reports calling, wrote a a slashing of jobs, Ms McMahon column for The Advertiser. aphs Prominently placed, with photogr pointed from recent protest actions, the article Sector Public in crisis true out where the employment lies.

Sector “There is a crisis in Public two,” the employment. In fact there are column stated.

HIGH COURT BATTLE

FRONTLINE MEETING FOR MINISTER

PSA MEMBER IN AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS LIST

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Continued on page 3.....

27/02/12 10:54 AM

2012 has been a year with many battles fought, and many won for the PSA and its members.

A change in Government leadership was a significant moment.

Since then, rights and entitlements stripped away have been largely returned.

A new retention provision, a successfully negotiated EB and a High Court victory were other highlights of an active and successful year.

None of this, of course, would have been achieved without the union of workers – the united voice of those under attack – standing up to fight for what was right.

We thank, as always, our members and Worksite Representatives and members of Executive and Council for their tireless efforts, support and involvement in this success.

We wish you all, and your families, a merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.

PSA commissions University of Adelaide study on public investment - here is a taste of what the AISR team led by Associate Professor Spoehr are working on Australian state governments have become overly concerned with minimising the use of debt for fear of losing a high credit rating. This focus on the maintenance of credit ratings has tended to displace a more systematic analysis of the benefits and costs of infrastructure spending and obscured the significant economic and social returns that welldirected infrastructure investment generates.

One consequence of this has been significant underinvestment by government in physical and social infrastructure. This generates a number of risks including slower productivity and economic growth than might have otherwise been the case. It could also be argued that under investment in public infrastructure generates political risk as consequence of rising community dissatisfaction with ageing or inadequate infrastructure.

Whilst it is true that incurring debt creates risks for governments as well as demands on revenue from future tax receipts, offsetting these are the positive returns on investments that can be undertaken by governments.

Over the past three decades or so, governments around the world have divested themselves of a range of public assets and activities. Management and provision has been passed onto the private sector through contracting out and asset sales . While the role of government and the individual as taxpayer might seem to be diminished as a result of these arrangements, government and individuals continue to pay, albeit indirectly through payments to private providers in the case of outsourcing or though rising prices.

While responsibility for the management and delivery of a great deal of government activity has been transferred to the private sector, a wide range of goods and services

remain in the domain of government and require public investment to function effectively.

Investment in physical infrastructure such as transport and utility infrastructure has clear economic benefits in terms of productivity, economic activity and growth. Whilst in the short run, public investment has a negative impact on the government’s fiscal position, this position will be reversed over the long term, where productive public investment leads to improved economic and productivity outcomes that flow through to activity increased tax revenue.

Investment in social infrastructure that produces superior outcomes in, for example, education and health also produces economic benefits that can improve productivity and growth as well as addressing a range of social concerns.

It is also likely that improved social infrastructure will encourage population growth particularly in the context of tight labour markets and high labour mobility within Australia.

There is therefore a need to consider in a more balanced assessment the implications and desirability of public investment and the policy issues arising from the use of public debt generally. It should also be emphasised that a rational and transparent approach to public debtfunded investment is an important input for the determinations of credit rating agencies. These agencies are primarily concerned with the ability of governments to service public debt into the longer term, rather than the level of the debt per se.

Life Membership for Nev Kitchin Frontline Meeting for Minister Associate Professor John Spoehr, Executive Director of Australian Institute for Social Research, The University of Adelaide

Associate Professor John Spoehr

PSA Assistant General Secretary Nev Kitchin has been awarded Life Membership of the Association in recognition of his many years of significant contribution.

He is the 113th person in 105 years to be awarded the honour.

Neville's involvement in the PSA began as an elected Worksite Representative, then elected Health and Safety representative, PSA Council member, PSA executive member then Assistant General Secretary. He began his Public Sector

career as a Police Officer in the Adelaide and Port Augusta regions and working as a Police Prosecutor.

He also worked with the Department of Public and Consumer affairs as an Investigator; as a Youth worker and with the Department of

Correctional Services.

Neville had 10 years’ experience as a Housing Manager/Recovery Officer for the South Australian Housing Trust working in Port Augusta, Port Pirie and Port Adelaide.

He is a former chairperson of the SAHT/PSA Worksite Representatives committee and a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Neville's role within the PSA includes serving on numerous committees and Tribunals.

In February of 2011 Neville was appointed by the Minister to the Supported Residential Facilities Advisory Committee.

"The PSA has afforded me a unique career path involving a diversity of opportunities and roles for which I will always be grateful,” he said.

From Left: President Lindsay Oxlad, Generla Secretary Jan McMahon, Assistant General Secretary Nev Kitchin, Vice-Presidents Stephen Callaghan & Lesley Hughes

“Without question the highlights continue to be working with Individual PSA members covering a wide range of Industrial matters, helping the General Secretary and our fellow councillors manage the day to day operations of our Association and pursuing the overall objectives of maintaining, protecting, and enhancing the working conditions and entitlements of all fellow PSA members."

The PSA recently hosted a series of sessions between frontline staff and the Minister for Education and Child Development, the Hon Grace Portolesi.

On January 31, Ms Portolesi attended the PSA offices and met with representatives of various frontline professions who now work under her altered portfolio.

These included School Services Officers (SSOs), speech pathologists, social workers, child protection and youth workers.

These information and feedback sessions to the Minister were sparked during previous meetings with the PSA. In those meetings, Ms Portolesi indicated her interest in meeting people who do the work in her portfolio and who directly interface with clients.

The PSA applauds this spirit of interaction and willingly arranged meetings for Ms Portolesi so she could hear firsthand the difficulties faced by members working within her Department.

The PSA hopes to arrange other such meetings between members and Ministers for other Departments to ensure they have access to the first2012 hand realities of P10 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JANUARY their workplaces.

President Lindsay Oxlad, General Secretary Jan McMahon & Minister Portolesi with Allied Heath Professionals

PSA MEMBER IN AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS LIST Ms Elizabeth Ho, a member of the PSA for almost 40 years, was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the 2012 Australia Day's Honours.

The Award was in recognition of Ms Ho's service to education through the Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre at the University of South Australia and to women.

The Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre honours the contribution of South Australia's only Prime Minister, The Hon Bob Hawke AC

and provides the community with free access to expert knowledge and information on topics ranging from the environment to human rights. International patron, Nelson Mandela has personally endorsed the Centre’s values “strengthening our democracy, celebrating our diversity and building our future.”

Ms Ho has been Director of the Centre since 1999.

Elizabeth has played influential roles in a wide variety of community, cultural and

academic bodies including the Institute of Public Administration Australia, the State Heritage Authority and the Migrant Resource Centre of South Australia. She previously worked in the State Library of South Australia and the Education Department.

In 2009 she was added to the SA Women's Honour Roll for services to public learning and on 18 January of this year, Ms Ho was announced by the Prime Minister as a "People of Australia Ambassador', one of only 5 from South Australia.

PSA Member Liz Ho

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PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2012

w e i v Re ns PUBLIC

SECTOR

2012

April 2012

SPECIAL EDITION

www.cpsu.asn.au

CPSU Electio

Wages and Conditions

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JUNE 2012 P9

2012

no stated that it sees Government has ent ging the curr ben efit to chan formal ires requ er matt arrangement, but the determination. will now continue The negotiations that nsive eral Gen PSA acco unt the exte ting will take into At the first mee ber members through ahon raised a num feedback from PSA Secretary Jan McM ting s. All in order mee n e lutio ksit reso wor ire surveys and of matters that requ form collated and will proceed. feedback has been for negotiations to by for negotiation process is the requirement part of the ongoing s The first of these ition cond view protection of be enforceable, in PSA. Job Security, any Agreement to of lost Long the in y issue Fole the r and sure Trea of employment 15 of the actions of then over se members with get. Despite a clau Service Leave for all September 2010 Bud extremely high in prot ectin g exis ting years service all rate in the Agr eem ent members. legislation was used from get s Bud onse the s resp the condition to and pay e any Leav of ice Serv amount to reduce Long The issue of the ing. ificant, with the claim remove Leave Load increase is also sign le increase. ch of good faith a fair and reasonab for g In view of the brea bein ires rred the PSA requ taken the matter bargaining that occu top of this PSA has be On y bilit rcea High of enfo ice Leave to the that the issu e ement of lost Long Serv of why have an Agre awaiting the decision resolved. After all it.

Court and we are ly walk away from if one party can simp the Court. s to be need r that er majo a ernment as The second matt of the The need for Gov is the composition orate knowledge and formally resolved loyer to retain corp problems of emp the to seen has able Enterprise. PSA as well as being pay vital experience, ncies had disparate r in the past, when Age must also be a facto attract new staff, an and conditions. as its image as ons, tiati nt nego these Parity Agreeme shed in the of tarni tion been crea has The loyer of choice people emp for ome outc provided a common nced recent years. e work, and enha undertaking the sam y Agreement PSA ply In addition to the Parit Public Sector. Sim r just mobility across the nt the following eithe eme r who the Agre is also involved in clea is it l unti put, ming negotiations. tiations proceed? The completed or upco covers, how can nego ools), to s (Sch n dule Educatio of using sche SA Water, Minda, current mechanism tion of the National Rail different classifica WorkCover, Office provide pay rates for and ctive SA effe an Fore stry en to be Safe ty Reg ulat or, streams has prov icul ar ing with part Centre Trust.

Adelaide Festival mea ns of deal requirements.

Retention Report The value of retaining skilled and knowledgeable employees should be obvious to any employer.

s have now For mal neg otia tion t Enterprise nex commenced for the the current Parity Agreement, with on 30 June.

Agreement ending

the Minister for Indu

in furt her Pub lic Sec tor staff

Hon. Russell Wort

ley

LIDAYS

een Government, Negotiations betw s, Unions and Upper House MP e resu lted in Bus ines s SA hav slation that will agreement for legi Eve and New make Chr istm as holidays from Year’s Eve public t. nigh mid to 7pm

had put forward The Governm ent ch Parl iam ent whi legi slati on to the s te city shopping hour proposed to deregula day public half new two te and also crea 's Year New and Eve s holidays on Christma issues are linked and Eve from 5pm. Both d as they were negotiate cannot be separated as a package.

3 ...continued on page

CPSU ELECTIONS 2012

Retention W in

“The central challenge to be faced by policymakers is the potential loss of a large number of experienced and skilled public sector workers over a relatively short ily involved indifficulty of sourcing need to retain period of time and the growing current experie nced suitable replacements in a tighter labour market�staff�.

Associate Professor John Spoehr, Executive Director of Australian Institute for Social Research, The University of Adelaide

the South Australian public service.

This loss represents a considerable value which needs to be taken into account in Public Sector workforce planning; s /VER THE NEXT lVE YEARS AN accelerating retirement rate of public servants will coincide with the signiďŹ cant expansion of the resources sector. Combined, these forces will result in tightening of

Jan McMahon

(left) and Presi

s 4HE 3TATE 'OVERNMENT NEEDS TO develop a better understanding of the implication of staff losses for the knowledge and skill base of the public service as a central element of public sector workforce planning; s 4HE CENTRAL CHALLENGE TO BE FACED BY policymakers is the potential loss of a large number of experienced and skilled public sector workers over a

dent Lindsay

Oxlad (right) with

Treasurer at Budg

back what was stripped away then, and we are getting very clos e.�

discretion and leave must be taken within ďŹ ve year s of

its accrual or The report notes that long-term be lost. regular employees gain valuable “It skills is signiďŹ cant that this is and corporate knowledge over time, EXTR A WORKING DAY S OFF A YEAR gathered by training programs, and is ona very good outc ome and a the-job training or by many dire years of lt of PSA ct resu campaigning over recent year professional experience. sâ€?. “Thtake e PSA will When such workers leave, they discuss with Public Sector Wor with them these skills and knowledge. kforce Relation s the prec Whilst the cost of this loss is hardisetomechanism of how this will work and provide full deta quantify, it has genuine and explicit ils to members.â€? implications for employers.

PSA General Secretary Jan This loss of corporate knowledge McMahon said will soon be exacerbated inallo the Public : “The Retention wance is Sector due to the retirementmem of a legion a huge win for bers. of Baby Boomer employees. “Th ere were massive losses of employment con ditions – we’ ve got pretty muc h all of them back , either directly or in a close to equivalent form . “The Retention Provision recognises skil ls and the valu e of long term emp loyees.�

et Lock Up 2012

Pages 5-10

Page 4

Page 3

strial Relations, The

NEW PUBLIC HO

TAFE CONDITIONS PROTECTED

NEW PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

“Th e Sou th Aus tral ian a contraction market will experience

Jan McMahon with

Our Government should be no exception.

The new retention provision announced in the recent State Budget shows they are beginning to learn this lesson.

The PSA has long been advocating more efforts by Government to retain, staff warning of a looming skills and labour crisis.

A recent major report on this subject formed a signiďŹ cant element of preBudget submissions to Government.

Titled “The Workforce Retention Dividend: Valuing Knowledge and Skill in the Public Sector Workforce�, it was prepared by the Australian Workplace Innovation and Social Research Centre (WISeR) at The University of Adelaide.

WISeR focuses on work and socioeconomic change and socio-economic impact assessment.

Its report aimed to identify the different aspects of valuing the skills and knowledge that are lost to the Government as a result of staff reduction. The underlying premise is that employers “invest� in their employees, beginning from the recruitment process, and in the form of professional training during their careers.

relatively short period of time and The returns to these investments are the South Australian labour market. y; found in improved quality of work, ts have been In this environment it will be the s growingp difďŹ culty of sourcing s 2EDEVELOPMEN increased MILLION signiďŹ cantly. Car T OF THE 0ARK FOR THE 3OUTHER licence, registrat employee morale and efďŹ ciency – all S suitable more difďŹ cult to attract and retain replacements Express ion and CTP have way duplication;in a N tighter increased as of which lead to improved productivity. have public transpor experienced workers in the Public labour market; t fares.

Key ďŹ ndings included: Sector. Loss of knowledge and s 4HERE IS AN URGENT NEED TO DEVELOP A s 2APID LOSS OF 0UBLIC 3ECTOR skill in this context is particularly multi-faceted approach to attraction workers, especially those with more problematic. It may harm the and retention that addresses a range experience and skill, will result in ability of the State Government to of drivers and barriers; the loss of corporate knowledge and Prolonged neg its programs effectively and otiationdeliver s with ensuring it s 4HERE WILL BE PARTICULAR CHALLENGES hinder the transfer of Goskills vernmwithin came to fruition ent bore fru efďŹ ciently; . it on “It was a vital outc associated with attraction and Hailed by med Bu dge t day ome. Our preia commentato wh rs Budget subm The Treasurer announ en the as a big win for the Pub retention issio of nspublic in new Provision beneďŹ ts highlighservants lic Sector, how staff ced details the ted with important this 15 or more year Retenti of the new regional South was. Australia where s of service.

Re ten tio n vital step on Provision is a “The PSA has Provision.

W .

ORKING DAYS LEAV evid ence of long employment demands generated by E EACH YEAR term , At exp erie a IS P post nced people alre Treasurer Sne -Budget meeting lling had alluded Wor have theady potentialROVI toDED PHASED IN BY of sayimining ng they projects ksite Represe to the creation would leav The extra days ntatives the of such a retentio can be cashed out starve the Publice. Sector of various n PSA describe “Th scheme during e PSA d it as “po has campaig his ďŹ rst Budget AT PER DAY sitive veryoccupational ned and recognition AT THE EMPLOYE the PSA was skills. hard to win E S of the heav

boo st

S Y A D I L O H C I L B NEW PU

Review

continued from page 1....

the Public Holiday The Opposition opposed legislation. required to work on Many PSA members are Year's Eve, and the PSA New and Eve s stma Chri Upper House MPs to campaigned to persuade legislation in order to support the Government's ive better payment for their ensure that members rece

PUBLIC

Jan McMahon with John Spoehr

work.

oved expenditure for a PSA Council had appr r media, postcards and othe campaign which involved th s for the PSA were Heal publicity. Key focus area ired the vast majority of requ and Corrections where Year's Eve work occurs.

Christmas Eve and New are required to work on Many other PSA members ’s Eve, and examples of Year New and Eve s Christma ns with MPs and the ussio disc in used were these ia. med n campaign, with each This was a multi unio workers and their own its on sing union focu so in a coordinated manner. g doin but , nces msta circu mstances PSA, other In an unusual set of circu ns, Dignity4Disabled, Gree the ent, ernm unions, Gov ey and Business SA Darl John MLC ent Independ with the Opposition and ges, chan the orted supp ions opposing them. some employer organisat

SECTOR

www.cpsu.asn.au

Premier Meeting

June 2012

The PSA leadership team met with Premier Jay Weatheri ll in the week after the latest State Budget.

The PSA was represente d at that meeting by President Lind say Oxlad, General Secretary Jan McMahon and Chief Industrial OfďŹ cer Peter Christopher.

Grave concerns were expr essed to the Premier about the addit ional 1000 job cuts that had been anno unced.

E 2012

It was made clear to the Premier that this would create sever e difďŹ culties statements, not by Chie in the delivery of servi f Executives ces and have simply cutting more jobs. an unsustainable impact on workloads for members.

The PSA also discussed a positive He was also advised that from the Budget – the introduction of the PSA was closely monitorin the new retention schem g the impact e. of the “efďŹ ciency divid Enterprise Bargaining was endâ€? – i.e. discussed budget cut. The PSA has made it with the PSA acknowle clear that these savings dging that must be made this process was unde by genuine efďŹ ciencie rway with the s or program Government agreeing to changes consistent with continuation of the Treasurer’s a Single Parity Agreemen t.

The Premier is awar e of the background to these nego tiations and the ill-will created by the 2010 Foley Budget. “It is important that this Premier is willing to have these discu ssions with the PSA,� PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said. “Full and frank discu ssions are essential at the highest levels to ensure this does not happen again .�

RS SA Can’t Afford Job U O N O H Y A Cuts D H T R I B ent in om S ' pr le N op r of pe QUEE ards to a numbe list included aw

SECTOR P10 PUBLIC

REVIEW JUN

FOR S For S comp

S The receFor nt State Budget delivered . a mix of Nov bad and good news. econ

had not been willing to accept the not be allowed to be a back need to maintain a deďŹ c door means it for the next A cut of 1000 jobs of cutting more jobs. coup le of years instead of aimin and a new g for “efďŹ ciencyFor dividendâ€? - i.e. budget cut “If Department or Agen a surplus. m cy heads 10 were the bad news items start cutting staff to ďŹ nd “If that had been the case, for the Public this money, $34 then the Sector. we need to know abou job cuts would have been t it as soon as much harsher The goodFor possible so we can put a news was the win of a new and the impact on comm stop to it.â€? rks in Retention unity services exc ision Prov The meeting also much more dire. over, who wo Gl – a very pleasing r M passe d the e Te following resolution: prolonged negotiations ing Centre, outcome after at change. Sh (see separate an CFS State Train a period of gre story). ognition Regarding Sp a number of the n had to resign rec ld in me he l wo da ly en me us wh the cuts, the PSA time c received the y previo nhas advised (aGovejob in the SA publi vice when the NS rnment – both in onal contributio meetings senior position from the ser GRAHAM IN 1 the medi and via National of his excepti the a – that cuts try ing un lud Co inc an to jobs are unsuWstainable. strali vice s received a married.

WAS ser , Australian to the South Au Mr Graham Inn lly as a “We can’t affor -R )NNS c Works Council h d to lose Public Secto alia tia

bli str

ini Pu Au , on )N of ce r r cti rvi de tru Or workers,â€? Publi$c Servi Fire Se PSA General Secretar ce Association head of the Procurement and Cons Member of the then as y, Jan McMahon General Secretary Jan McM vice to business appointed as Services volunteer and cadet and ser the r his ahon d ate W said. an for ) t M en the (A , rtm in pa cil g un De cin “Mo Co rale en 's is ier as mm falter em d co ing, workloads Pr an er a e. mb ali ed erc me str lud mm ff Au inc co sta are of Incre d a growing, the whole syste asing the “efďŹ ciency divid an Jan McMahon with Prem followed Association m is at endâ€? ier Board.

HAD A YEAR reforms that “That this meeting of PSA – spending cut – from 0.25% breaking point.

Worksite consultative Chair of the State Supply to 1% for -R )NNS WHO

Representatives expre departments will also sever Australian the establishment of mberThe PSA recognises the difďŹ c Foley 2010 Budget in the me uth sses a of So r conc en ely nt ern lde reduc be the ca s ho e winning back in ha ult at further job cuts, but the scope of needed servi career s globa and signiďŹ Mr Glover conditions of employme notes that the Ms Howe is the ces and leave , d it l economic conditions nt.â€? under Premier committees the Government has chosen people in need behind. motion y Millis Award over 25 years annational reduction in GST revenand pro nc a deďŹ cit Budget for Public Service Na The A l to PSA PS ran ura recog the ug rco ues. nts nised that it was of ina rather than even greater d Meetings of Worksite Repr improveme , Des Co cuts to jobs signiďŹ cant that Governme r in recognition esentatives his lengthy anIt notes, however, that the Australian were Don Dunstan and services. nt is willing o a sses. held at the PSA and regio presented to he econ gratifying that is faring well against almo to accept a deďŹ cit Budg nkin, was als selection proce nally the puallblicomy ement in the is et. to st olv n “Thi day inv s tio after e and David To meet the ibu tiv ing ty Budg other ac ntr welc pu et r co was delivered. nations and economic omes the he De nt of d “The PSA played an inu rta an po rk im tor wo anno ec r unce ential role ment of a new Rete Reps were asked to indicin and he ators for the future are brigh nised company dir ntion in that. Budget submissio ensure that t.

Provision recognising water industry has been recog ns pointed out all feedback regarding We don’t live in a vacu the the impact of that cuts of thousands and proďŹ le of all service Lord Mayor. um, we contribution PSA members valuable thousands of the job and budget cuts tant ANNE HOWE advancing the sis unde in rstan As make r d that. to the ows me jobs y. is back for not the only answer. to . this wa public sector and the Sout the PSA. Mr Inns is a therecognise that the h Australian A n in the industry le that We Future meetings will decid community. cuts could tary of the PS of the ed a wome e further were in particular advis have been It is regrettab General Secre actions needed as a was a member e worse if the Government thatThey Howe has receiv s, ed we lik ne , wa Ho d ny “Mem s An s an M ma bers result of this M are so era the t to “efďŹ ciency dividendâ€? shou be congratulated nstan in the important role tha alia Budget as the true impa ld for their campaign effor during the Du out her career Order of Austr gh er the ct becomes ou ion of ing r thr iss ts be A vid since mm PS em the pro M ever more plain. ce Co y in ich recognises as Public Servi r Glover, pla

onours Australia. en's Birthday H ation in South tr is in m ad The 2012 Que ce vi alian Public Ser in South Austr

c man of the Publi (and later Chair responsible for ) ard Bo ce Servi c to the SA Publi major reforms e industrial lik as are in Service on rkers participati democracy, wo rights and l ua eq nt, me in manage last women. The equal pay for ment of int po ap the point led to 's Adviser in the the ďŹ rst Women d followed the an e public servic

wh (AM) Award l ed professiona her distinguish e agency vic ser n ma hu career in ing policy, plann management, . orm ref tor and public sec

“It is easy for politicians to jobs and money. What they simply say we will cut nee is what ser vices they will be d to come clean about slashing as a result.�

Public Service

M be public canRET ENTION service to the lly rea t no t jus WIN ked or oo erl ov ER OWEN GLOV recognised. t and as the one tha aining Officer Tr Awards such te Sta S g CF lon a en go Ow ed er eiv rec A me mb Mr Glover has lon g- ter m PS award ed the teracting that.

Chief Executive y toward coun Ms Howe was over ha s be en wa Gl , ars al. ye ed 10 M ce er ov rvi Se for e r Fir ate an of SA W gh Australi ter utility throu heading the wa

Page 4

LTS U S E R N O ELECTI

MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS

Page 5

SSO CONFERENCE & WOMEN'S CONFERENCE

Page 6&7

P T th an

Com say Gen “ Trea smok to an

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2012 P7

A Year in Review Review P8

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

PUBLIC

PSA Visit to Pt Lincoln

PSA Industrial Officers visited Pt. Lincoln members on 30th and 31st July, 2012.

Successful meetings were held over the two days in a number of worksites. The PSA wished to ensure all Pt. Lincoln members had the opportunity to discuss the new Retention Allowance and hear about the current Enterprise Bargaining negotiations.

PSA members received letters prior to the visit so that they were able to contact the PSA Industrial Officers if they had any particular issues they wish to discuss.

Meetings were supported by local management. It is clear that Pt. Lincoln public sector workers, like many of their metropolitan colleagues face high work loads, and struggle with conflicting priorities.

The PSA has made it clear to Government, that any new Enterprise Agreement needs to

provide better protection for members with high work loads.

There were concerns raised in relation to proposed further job cuts in agencies.

The

very small worksites were even more worried about how their services/projects would continue, if they lost any further resources.

Regional South Australia has been under

significant pressure in recent years to provide quality public services and with this current round of budget cuts feels more vulnerable than ever.

www.cpsu.asn.au

September/October 2012

HIGH COURT WIN

The PSA has fought and won a High Court challenge over entitlements.

Goodbye Magill The Magill Youth Training Centre – long a controversial and terribly degraded emblem of Government spending failure – is soon to close.

Its replacement is due to open in September. The PSA has been regularly involved in ensuring the new centre will match community expectations for the 21st Century.

The PSA campaigned for a very long time to get the Magill centre shut down. Conditions there had been substandard for far too long.

The long campaign, and close co-operation with other community groups, resulted in a major Government turnaround with desperately needed funds finally found.

“This transition has been a long time coming,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.

“Persistence has indeed paid off.

We campaigned long and hard on this one and negotiations over the development of the new centre have finally reached the point where it can now open.

“This is a fantastic result,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.

“It shows Government again that the PSA will not tolerate unethical conduct by the employer.

“Now we have taken the matter to the highest court in the land, and won.

“The message must be loud and clear in Government circles now – if you act inappropriately, you will be in for a fight and we will throw everything we have at it and win.”

This battle started in January 2010 when a new Enterprise Agreement guaranteeing protection of existing conditions was certified in the Industrial Relations Commission.

That Agreement required Government approval before being 'approved' by the Chief Executive, Department of Premier and Cabinet. ... continued page 5

From right: President Lindsay Oxlad,

An issue of ongoing importance is that of workforce planning, with PSA expressing concern that the loss of experienced employees in coming years will impact on the ability of the Public Sector to deliver the Government’s programs effectively.

The Premier recognised the significance of this issue.

P6

Workloads were also identified

by PSA as a particular concern, with members expected by managers to carry duties of unfilled jobs and those not filled during leave. PSA highlighted that it was important that management recognise their responsibility to make decisions about priorities for staff, not simply expect them to put in significant unpaid hours of extra work.

The regular meetings at this senior level provide the opportunity to discuss a range of issues and to provide direct feedback to the Premier on important issues.

& Martin Hynes

PSA also required a process for the Industrial Relations Commission to deal with any future breach of the Agreement, whether by Parliament or

by Agencies.

We also needed to deal with ever increasing workloads being experienced by members arising from increased demand for services, from job cuts and through jobs being left vacant.

The offer does not pick up all that PSA would

Offer

have liked in an Agreement, but overall it represents a fair and reasonable outcome.

It contains an acceptable pay increase, with benefits for lower paid members.

Conditions are protected. We have an increase to Paid Maternity Leave, Work Level Definitions for Allied Health Professionals and Medical Scientist s are improved, there is a review of the technical grades structure and we have new career paths for Correctio ns Officers.

The offer has been considered by PSA’s Executive and Council, and by Worksite Represen tatives in both metropolitan and regional locations , and while it does not satisfy all expectations, PSA is prepared to recommend the offer to members .

HIGH COURT ORDER

NEW PRISON NEEDED

IMPORTANCE OF UNION

Page 3

Page 5

Page 9

... continued page 5

Meeting with Premier

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JUNE 2012 P7

SSO Conference This year was the 25th Anniversary of the Women’s Conference, a milestone to be proud of. The conference was officially opened by Minister Gail Gago.

“We have been working together to improve the conditions and entitlements of women in the Public Sector for a very

, Peter Moloney, Peter Christopher

PSA sought a good outcome for membe rs, includi ng a fair and reasona ble pay increase, job security, protection of existing conditions and improvements to others.

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW JUNE 2012

The PSA has recently hosted its annual School Services Officers (SSO) and Women’s Conferences.

Paul Heywood-Smith QC, Jan McMahon

Enterprise Bargaining “Parity”

MEETING WITH PREMIER Senior PSA officials met with the Premier in August. The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange views on a range of key issues, and to discuss any G ove r n m e n t ’s upcoming legislation which may impact upon the Public Sector.

SECTOR

long time,” PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said.

“During that time there have been significant improvements and the gap between the genders is closing.

“There is still more to be done, and we will continue to work with our women members to ensure further improvement in equality.”

This year’s Women’s Conference had the theme: Strong Together- Every

Woman in Every Workplace. It was held on Friday June 15.

Two days earlier, the PSA hosted the SSO Conference – “A time of change in Education and Child Development”.

This was the 8th Anniversary of the Conference which continues to provide members with the opportunity to network with other SSO members.

Addressing the Conference, Ms McMahon said: “SSOs are a crucial and

13 June 2012

Women's Conference

15 June 2012 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012 P9

equal part of the education equation.

“Often overlooked in the debates about education, funding and student ratios, it is a simple fact that schools would not function without SSOs.” The PSA thanks all participants and speakers at the Conferences and looks forward to working together cooperatively in the years ahead.

Importance of Union Unions are often incorrectly portrayed as “either a spent force or a bogeyman” in the media, Australian Council of Trade Unions ( AC T U ) President Ged Kearney recently told the Melbourne Press Club.

“The work we do is often ignored, or if it is covered, presented as something that would have happened without unions,” she said.

“But our work is important.

What unions have built is important.

“I am proud to be the head of the largest social movement in this country – a movement with close to two million members.

“It is a movement that is changing rapidly. While the traditional industrial unions are still important, in recent years union membership has shifted towards more female-dominated, public and community sector workers.

“All unions face the common challenges of being collective organisations in an increasingly individualistic society and of organising a workforce that is becoming mobile and temporary.

“We cannot be too pessimistic about these challenges. I think the defeatist argument that people are no long “joiners” is too simple.

“The mistake that is often made is assuming that a decline in membership means that our values

and beliefs are no longer supported by the Australian people.

“It also ignores the fact that the work of unions directly benefits millions of people who are not members.

“Concepts like unfair dismissal laws, penalty

bargaining, safe workplaces and the belief that workers have a right to be treated with dignity in the workplace are still embedded in the Australian DNA. “There are many people in Australia – I would say the majority – who don’t

of assets we should be holding in trust for future generations and the cuts to our public health and education systems.

“They do not accept that our future is longer hours, less security, lower pay and inequality.

“I believe the role of unions has never been more important.

We are fighting for a society that respects fairness, and which does not leave the vulnerable behind.”

ACTU President Ged Kearney.

rates and paid leave actually remain popularly important, despite the best efforts of employer groups to demonise them.

“More broadly the values of fair play, collective

see their values reflected in the rhetoric they hear from business.

“They want us to live in a functioning society not just an efficient economy. They question the privatisation

Jan McMahon with ACTU President Ged Kearney

“I believe the role of unions has never been more important. We are fighting for a society that respects fairness, and which does not leave the vulnerable behind.”

P8

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2012

Audit Commission SMOKESCREEN Opposition Leader Isobel Redmond appears to have accidentally let slip what many regard as the true intent of her previously announced Audit Commission.

the Rann Government ever telling them what it intended to slash.

Now the Opposition is hoping it can pull the same trick, under a different name.

In previous policy announcements, the Opposition has stated that if it should win Government it would establish such a commission to review costs and services.

Sound familiar? It should.

Firstly, the Rann Government used a similar device, calling it a Sustainable Budget Commission, to avoid voter scrutiny of its intended budget and job cuts ahead of the last election.

Voters went to the polls without

“We have seen recently the enormous backlash in other States, particularly Queensland, where Governments have slashed jobs and services.”

And they’ve done it before. $EAN "ROWN WHEN HE WAS Premier in 1994 also had an Audit Commission.

This led to a raft of job cuts and privatisations.

“This is a weapon the Liberals have used before.”

“It is not acceptable for a party will go to an election without telling the voters what they are

really voting for.

“We fear Isobel Redmond has let the cat out of the bag – saying publicly what the Opposition has been planning in secret.

“It would appear highly probable that should an Audit Commission be created by a Liberal Government it could result in job cuts in the order that Ms Redmond accidentally announced – almost a quarter of the workforce, some 2535,000 jobs.

“That would be catastrophic to services in this State, and the people of this State deserve to be told if that is what the Opposition has planned.

“We have seen recently the enormous backlash in other States, particularly Queensland, where Governments have slashed jobs and services.

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 : JANUARY - MARCH 2013

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

January

February

March

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

Glenelg

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2 - 15

16 - 29

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.

K. I.

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Mannum

26 - 31

9 - 28

1 - 31

Pt Lincoln

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2 - 28

2 - 29

Pt Vincent

26 - 31

1 - 28

1 - 31

Robe

26 - 31

1 - 28

1 - 31

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1 - 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 CALL 8205 3200 OR TOLL FREE 1800 811 457

Goolwa

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2012 P9

Cuts Nonsensical This is a recent column written by Dr Janine O’Flynn for academic website theconversation.edu.au.

Dr O'Flynn is a Professor at the Crawford School of Public Policy at the Australian National University and an adjunct faculty member at the Australia and New Zealand School of Government.

She holds a PhD (2004) and a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours - first class), both from the University of Melbourne. Her expertise is in public sector management, particularly in the areas of public sector reform and relationships I was sitting in a session at the Institute of Public Administration Congress recently where Greg Hywood, the CEO of Fairfax, boldly announced that the Public Sector simply did not understand cuts.

Not, he argued, in the way that those facing financial crisis in the private sector did. I waited for the crowd to storm the stage, but instead they sat politely listening, albeit with much fidgeting amid the shock.

There is no doubt that big cuts to public services are the flavour of the month – not just in Australia, but also in many parts of the world.

The recent announcement that the Queensland government would cut 14,000 jobs, followed on from news around the country that the knife was coming out to hack away at the bloated bureaucracies that characterise our State governments, or so they say.

On the face of it, deep cuts in tight budgetary times might make sense. Fewer people employed by government should reduce outlays

and help get the house in order. But there are plenty of costs associated with this strategy. And here we are not just talking about what happens in the immediate aftermath, but in the medium to long-term as well.

Combining this with major pending experiments with outsourcing and we start to see a complex government “strategy” emerging which relies heavily on externalisation.

But why might we want to rethink

term contracts or consultancies at much higher prices. Often, ironically, from the same people we just fired.

Finally, we create a range of effects for those left behind in the public service. Work intensification, “survivor syndrome” stress, reduced motivation and commitment are all potential effects.

Big cuts work in the short term to reduce some costs, but will they really solve government’s problems?

“We create a range of effects for those left behind in the public service. Work intensification, “survivor syndrome” stress, reduced motivation and commitment are all potential effects.” cuts? Here are a few basic reasons.

First, redundancies don’t come cheap and they represent a big one-off financial cost; couple this with potential increases in the unemployment queue (although this cost gets passed on to the Commonwealth).

Second, we tend to lose important skills and knowledge that frankly, we are never that great at holding onto during major downsizing events.

Why? Because many who take lucrative packages might be high performers or highly marketable and take a package because they know they can pick up work relatively easily.

Third, we find out too late that the skills and expertise we needed have walked out the door, and we desperately buy it back using short-

At what stage do we have a more sophisticated strategic debate about what government should do, and then how they should go about doing it? I’m not advocating a return to the big in-house production model that characterised government in the past, but do we really have a plan besides cutting? Are we across the potential effects down the line?

Focusing on the numbers alone doesn’t tell us anything – in fact, it is nonsensical. A better question is: what is it that we actually want government to do? And then, how should they go about doing it? $EEP CUTS WITH NUMERICAL TARGETS coupled with outsourcing agendas, are often politically-motivated and ideologically-driven with a strong assumption that the private sector always does it better and that public

servants are costs to be managed.

How about doing things differently instead of, or even alongside, some reductions?

In the United States, the General Services Administration agency launched the Great Ideas Hunt and took the radical step of asking its employees how it could save money.

Hardly rocket science, but I suspect such moves are pretty rare here. The GSA got more than 600 ideas from 500 employees and asked them to vote on the best. The top five are being implemented and will save the agency $US5.5m per year. Forty or so more are likely to be rolled out.

And what are we talking about here? Basic things – moving from paper to web-based surveys for clients, or using a survey tool from another agency rather than paying a consultant. Involving staff in addressing the problem can also make them more motivated and engaged.

I’m not suggesting that there is no room to trim, often there is, but often these deep cuts are politicallymotivated and not managerially sensible.

Thinking about the various costs and benefits is the key here, not target-driven reductions.

Unfortunately, these concerns rarely get the attention that they need and we go through cycles of cutting, rebuilding, and cutting, without thinking deeply about what we want government organisations to actually do, and how.

Maybe it is time to change the conversation.

ASO Working Party A working party has been established to examine progression of

Administrative

Services

Officers (ASO) from Level 1.

This was the result of concerns raised by the PSA about long term employees not progressing to a higher level.

In letters to department heads,

the PSA sought the creation of “a working party with PSA participation which examines and then implements procedures which facilitate the progress of an employee classified at the ASO1

level to that of and ASO2”.

Meetings of this working party have commenced and it is hoped the work of the Committee will be completed by June next year.

P10 PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2012

The Premier’s view on the

PS

On the day he announced the latest review into Public Sector efďŹ ciency, the Premier the Hon. Jay Weatherill wrote a column for The Advertiser.

In it he reveals his views on the Public Sector, worthy of re-printing here as a matter of record.

“I have a neighbour who is a public servant. He’s a police ofďŹ cer who does an often very tough job in the interests of keeping our community safe.

This 85,000 includes about 14,000 teachers, 12,000 nurses, 3000 doctors and 4500 police. It also includes about 24,000 workers in other frontline roles or in direct support roles such as emergency services workers, childcare workers, allied health workers and school service ofďŹ cers.

The remaining 27,500 full-time equivalents are in administrative and policy roles supporting these public services.

Clearly the idea that you could cut more than one in four of these people or 25,000 to 35,000 people shows a lack of understanding of the structure of the South Australian public service and the way in which essential services are delivered to South Australians.

“Labor believes that the Public Sector is an asset whose value needs to be realised, not a burden to be minimised.�

When people think of a public servant, they often think of someone sitting behind a desk doing paperwork in an ofďŹ ce in the city.

But the reality is that public servants are people all over the State teaching our children, looking after us when we fall ill and coming to our aid in times of need.

It is hard to imagine anyone who doesn’t have a relative, friend or neighbour working in the public service, doing a great job.

The image of a public servant has been the subject of a fair share of mockery.

Like all stereotypes, there is an element of truth in the need for us to have a less bureaucratic and more responsive Public Sector. But there is a reason they are called public servants - they’re serving us every day.

The Liberal Opposition has suggested that substantial cuts should be made to the public service - as many as 25,000-35,000 people, according to Leader Isobel Redmond.

To understand the effect of massive cuts to the Public Sector on the community and the economy, it is necessary to look at the composition of our State public service.

Figures published by the Commissioner for the Public Sector show that there are just over 85,000 full-time equivalents (or about 101,000 people, including part-time workers) employed in the Public Sector.

People like the fact we have proportionally more operational police and more doctors and nurses than any other State.

The Liberals’ ideologically driven proposal to slash the Public Sector also makes no sense in the current economic circumstances following the global ďŹ nancial crisis.

The current period of economic uncertainty would dramatically worsen if tens of thousands of South Australians and their families were facing unemployment.

The reason Australia has been recognised internationally as having managed the economy better than anywhere during the GFC is because Federal and State Labor governments have sought to stimulate the economy rather than withdraw from it.

We know that Liberal governments across Australia are slashing jobs, and this will inevitably mean fewer people buying goods and services, along with fewer services being delivered by government.

This does not mean that there should not be change.

It is important that we continue to provide high service levels to our growing population, while making sensible economies in the way we deliver services.

But debate which focuses only on the size of the Public Sector is the wrong debate. We need to be talking about the quality of the Public Sector.

After all, if your view is that the Public Sector underperforms, then

reducing its size simply gives you a smaller underperforming Public Sector. We must search for new ways of responding to the growing demands of our community.

This is the serious work of government, not mindless cutting of essential services.

Labor believes that the Public Sector is an asset whose value needs to be realised, not a burden to be minimised. This is why we are launching a new Public Sector renewal program.

4HE %CONOMIC $EVELOPMENT Board has supported the program in recognition that an innovative, efďŹ cient Public Sector is a vital

component to sustainable economic growth across the State.

Under this program, we will lift the quality of services provided, and create a less risk-averse culture that is more focused on the needs of the community and less focused on bureaucratic processes.

We will do this by empowering Public Sector workers to themselves come up with solutions to challenges in their areas, rather than imposing solutions from above.

This will make the Public Sector a more dynamic and better place to be employed. Improved services, for business, for those needing care, or for public safety, will result.�

The More Things Change...

In 1966 the editors of The Public Sector Review – one of South Australia’s longest running publications – reprinted an article about work conditions.

As an introduction, the editors stated that “in response to requests from a number of members we herewith re-print a copy of office rules laid down for its clerical staff by a Sydney firm of ships’ chandlers 114 years ago�.

Some things have certainly changed for the better since then – others may still seem familiar.

OFFICE RULES- 1852 1: Godliness, cleanliness and punctuality are the necessities of a good business.

2: On the recommendation of the Governor of this Colony, this firm has reduced the hours of work and the clerical staff will now only have to be present between the hours of 7am and 6pm on weekdays. The Sabbath is for worship but should any man-of-war or other vessel require victualling the clerical staff will work on the Sabbath. $AILY PRAYERS WILL BE HELD EACH MORNING IN THE MAIN OFFICE 4HE CLERICAL STAFF WILL be present.

4: Clothing must be of sober nature. The clerical staff will not disport themselves in rainment of light colours nor will they wear hose, unless in good repair.

5: Overshoes and topcoats may not be worn in the office but neck scarves and headwear may be worn in inclement weather.

6: A stove is provided for the benefit of the clerical staff. Coal and wood must be kept in the locker. It is recommended that each member of the clerical staff brings 4 lb. of coal each day during the cold weather.

7: No member of the clerical staff may leave the room without the permission of Mr. Ryder. The calls of nature are permitted and the clerical staff may use the garden below the second gate. This area must be kept in good order.

8: No talking is allowed during business hours.

9: The craving for tobacco, wines or spirits is a weakness and, as such, is forbidden to all members of the clerical staff.

10: Now that the hours of business have been drastically reduced, the partaking of food is allowed between 11.30am and noon but work will not, on any account, cease.

11: Members of the clerical staff will provide their own pencils. A new sharpener is available on application to Mr. Ryder.

12: Mr. Ryder will nominate a senior clerk to be responsible for the cleanliness of the main office and the private office and all boys and juniors will report to him 40 minutes before prayers and will remain after closing hours for similar work.

Brushes, brooms, scrubber and soap are provided by the owners.

13: The new increased weekly wages are hereunder detailed:

s *UNIOR BOYS TO YEARS Â?

s "OYS TO YEARS

s *UNIORS

s *UNIOR CLERKS

s #LERKS

s 3ENIOR CLERKS AFTER YEARS

PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW DECEMBER 2012 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

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

Carolyn Sheldrake

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.

PSA mourns the loss of a valued member of staff.

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) 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 air-conditioner 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

RIP A compassionate and imaginative person who loved adventure.

KINGFISHER LODGE, EDITHBURGH, YORKE PENINSULA Sleeping up to 10 people in 4 large bedrooms including two queen size beds, the house will easily cater for 2 families. Two other bedrooms each contain a single bed and double bunks. All beds have quilts (with covers) and pillows. You will need to bring sheets, pillow cases, towels and tea towels.

Features include a large fully equipped kitchen, spa bath, large lounge, games room with built-in wet bar and a second toilet.

Facilities available include flat screen TV and DVD/video, CD/ cassette player, table tennis, games, front loading washing machine, an iron, bar fridge and a freezer. Outside is a BBQ area and plenty of room for parking. The house itself is situated in the centre of Edithburgh, only a short walk from shops, and several dining establishments. The jetty and swimming areas are also within easy walking distance, and the boat ramp is only a two minute drive away. Tennis courts, the flora park and golf course are just around the corner. View house images at www.edithburgh.net Email bookings@kingfisherwww.com or contact Cathy on 0412 641404 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 BREAK” - MIDDLETON - Centrally located at Middleton, is an inviting home with beautiful, bright beach style décor. It is close to Middle Point and other well known surfing and swimming beaches, bakery, tavern and general store. Fully self contained with almost every modern day amenity to ensure a carefree enjoyable stay. Features: 2 b/rms (sleeps 6), electric blankets, pillows, r/c a/c, colour tv/dvd/vcr radio/cd, microwave, stove, fridge/freezer, bbq & outdoor settings, fenced secure garden & car parking. Reasonable rates. Packages & vouchers available.

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

INFO BY EMAIL

Carolyn worked for PSA's Admin area for 9 years.

Our thoughts go to husband Charles and family.

DE-STRESS IN CHORD All you bathroom baritones and tenors out there who would like to develop those voices and sing a range of music from Gershwin to Opera choruses to modern musicals and be a part of a group of people who have been involved in this for one hundred and twenty years (not the same people by the way).

Apart from the pleasure of developing a broader musical knowledge, it is a great de-stresser and an opportunity to be a part of a group of interesting people with a variety of different occupations and hobbies. The Adelaide Male Voice Choir is always trying to improve and build on its qualities to bring in new members, or even just friends of the Choir. If you feel you would like to be a part of the living history of our State or would like to just come in and experience a practice night, please ring one of the following phone numbers: 8270 2628 or 8332 1895.

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 DECEMBER 2012

-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 _________________________________________________________________________________________

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

Part time

Casual

Signature/s

____________________________________________________________________________________

Date

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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 ___________________

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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 _____________________________

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

Cardholder’s name ________________________________________ Expiry date ______________

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

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The 2013 PSA Training Program will be available in January 2013

Review

The PSA would like to take this opportunity to thank all PSA members for their contributions throughout 2012!

Best wishes to you, your family and friends during the festive season, for a safe and Happy Christmas! s 0UBLISHED SIX TIMES A YEAR

Review R w w e e e i v i v i e v e w e R Premier M R Restorin eeting PUBLIC

SECTOR

PUBLIC

PSA General

PUBLIC

SECTOR

PUBLIC

R SECTO

Secre

June 2011

SECTOR

www.cpsu.as n.au

2011 st 2012 ary Augu Febru

www.cpsu.asn.a

u

s &ULL COLOUR PAGES

More To Do! Major Win, But au

www.cpsu.asn.

has ’s first Budget Treasurer Snelling le in many respects. been remarkab had got it

s $IRECT MAILED

s 2EGULAR FEATURES s 4RAVEL AND ENTERTAINMENT

nt the Governme Admitting that in its 2010 to some matters wrong in respect . itself signiďŹ cant Budget was in Loading to restore Leave Being willing was important. to job security how and recommit highlight just These decisions by unions PSA led campaign the successful y has been. and the communit constantly members have Thousands of visits to MPs, public rallies, other participated in and numerous community protests activities.

Foley former Treasurer The actions of in removing Government that and the Rann of employment negotiated conditions , Awards and by legislation nted. were protected ts was unprecede in that Enterprise Agreemen could have acted No other employer Cutting 3750 away with it. manner and got pain. the to jobs added

by PSA and other The strategic response nted. unprecede also was ing unions that the underpinn not Recognising nt was of the Governme political decision by a quick industrial likely to be reversed

SUBSCRIPTIONS E THAN ANNUAL 03!

NED VALUE IS MOR s 2,, TO BE RETUR COME

ECURITY REMOVED ANTS CHEAPER OUT s 4HREAT TO *OB 3 D D 'OVERNMENT W T 03! HAS SECURE ACE ,3, PROPOSE BE NEGOTIATED BU s 0ROCESS TO REPL LENT VALUE 3TILL TO 03! WANTS EQUIVA

*ULY DEPLOYMENT OPERATIVE DATE OF OF GOVERNMENT RE TAILS URPLUS STAFF n DE DED BETTER WHOLE s 03! HAS DEMAN ACANCIES TO TAKE S E AGENCIES WITH V PROCESSES TO FORC W OW AS BEFORE NOT NE IS SAME TO BE NEGOTIATED N ELECTION CURITY AFTER TO EACH ELECTION s 4HREAT TO JOB SE LITICAL PARTY PRIOR TO EACH MAJOR PO 03! ALWAYS GOES ED REDUNDANCIES ITMENT OF NO FORC IS RESULT SEEKING A COMM N HAS ACHIEVED TH OME IPATION IN CAMPAIG USTRIAL ACTION BY S s -EMBERS PARTIC AS SHORT TERM IND AS WORKED WHERE

s 03! STRATEGY H E HAD LESS IMPACT GROUPS WOULD HAV

ies s, PSA is to no forced redundanc In any discussion as February 2010 about its proposal. must be of strategy was of its next term? any such scheme longer term the for the duration demanding that lost LSL. campaign, a jobs be cut when those who have and How could 3750 equal value for developed. extensive Australia was growing and difďŹ cult campaign, included ? population of South strategy It has been a long The the success services was increasing the community is not over, but members and the need for public and one which of the involvement of betrayal felt decision to restore tes the success the sense of The 2011 Budget to address and recognised to date demonstra goes some way conditions some Loading by many. to by PSA strategy.

PSA by restoring Leave of the Budget conditions agreed the conditions issues, How could Enterprise There are aspects but has not resolved be the subject protected in an and Job Security, and which will certiďŹ ed Government and concerns. disagrees with, had only been , but the new Treasurer Long Service Leave in proposed Agreement that with of ongoing campaigns negotiating group be suddenly removed a A senior level right to disagree in January 2010 will examine recognises our be paid nt, however, same year?

by Governme recognition must d workers.

September of the Leave s to Government. Due retain experience Long Service full for his willingnes mechanism to pursue Act How could to Snelling Sector continuing to Treasurer in the Public PSA, while campaign and and to act. entitlements protected be removed?

LSL through its genuinely listen nt 2009 suddenly restoration of only passed in with Governme talk threatened will be security High Court case, How could job as recently had committed when the Premier

gh Court Proceed in Hi PSA Case to have the High Court Two Judges of a full PSA case for referred the Judges) Full Court (7 hearing by the fixed. on a date to be

Industrial decision of the Following the

MORE JOBS TO GO

s .EWS AND VIEWS

AT A GLANCE

Page 3

it did on of SA that Relations Commissi to hear PSA’s case in n not have jurisdictio conditions loss of protected judicial relation to the PSA sought a in last year's Budget, Court. review by the Supreme only the Court ruled that The Supreme

MAY DAY MARCH

Page 6

matter. determine the High Court could the High application with PSA lodged an

y.

Court accordingl and will now hear The Full Court granting leave the question of determine both

Page 7

really employment that beneďŹ t 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 agreements made last Budget, when he slashed with any Government.� long service leave, cut leave loading and The manner in threatened job security, he also which the Governme drastically chose to legislate undermined the nt away agreed working whole basis of good faith rights and entitlemen negotiations. 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 inevitably have the Governme to by will nt only months a bearing on how future before, and negotiations are ďŹ nalised in an conducted.

Enterprise Agreemen was certiďŹ ed t that Alternatives to by the Industrial the previous Enterprise Relations Commission, he Agreement process created a signiďŹ cant may involve arbitration problem for future negotiation by the Industrial Relations Commissio s. achieve legally Negotiations for n to binding outcomes, the next EB are due to start early next and to allow for considerat year with an agreement ion of the value commence during due to of lost entitlements.

2012.

The PSA is giving This would be consideration a time consuming to to approach adversarial approach, and any future negotiation how but would result s, 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 speciďŹ c 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) are you would expect removed, compensat that to stand.â€? ion is required. “What has Arbitration, happened is unlike an that the Government, Enterprise Agreement, does a few months “The change not require the later, decided in Government consent of the employer to leadership may have an impact the outcome. on relations and potential negotiations.â€?

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

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

Public Supp ort for Publ ic Sector

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

And many would

the substantive be heard, and be happier to see for the case to rise, rather than taxes usly. services and jobs case itself simultaneo cut. favour The research was rules in the PSA's conducted by Dr If the High Court back to Whelan, Public James Service Research will refer the matter the High Court Australia the Centre Director of for Policy Developm Court of South the Full Supreme ent. for determination.

REGIONAL ANGER GROWS

g

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

In his

ision TrusHtospital Parking Dec August 2011 au n u asn.a www.cpsu.

EXPERIENCE MUST BE REWARDED Page 5

He found that despite many politicians making “a sport of kicking public servants� the community has “positive attitudes the public service towards and would like strong, healthy to and sustained service�. see a Dr Whelan’s research looked years of attitudinal at surveys and found 20 consistently throughout that, that time, people wanted to see services well funded.

NO SHIPPING CONTAINERS

Page 7

“In fact, one of the interesting ďŹ ndings 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,â€? he said in a media interview.

Dr Whelan said that an examinatio n of

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

SA GOVERNMENT SUPERANNUATION FEDERATION AGM

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 “efďŹ ciency and a new travel to and to avoid the new couple of yearsin a deďŹ cit for the next existing dividendâ€? 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 ďŹ nd be ment, Departm we need to Retention Provisi was the win of a new .â€? 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 beneďŹ t 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.â€? 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,â€? 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 r media on said. l Secretary “Morale is al Secretary, “We are already PSA Genera ment. Regula 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 “efďŹ cie at ncy dividen – spending and conditio The PSA as budget dâ€? cut ng recognises that.â€? “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 difďŹ cult 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 ser. must make the economy is the Australian has chosen a change and n of employment.â€? aphs public attacks The Adverti against rather than cope with deďŹ cit 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 signiďŹ cant 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 deďŹ cit 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 of a new es the “The PSA the ďŹ rst the years. regarding the results that.

Provision with employment is our entire in Public be among played an inuen Retention d massive n policy the job and months and the impact of recognising ageing, as in services e retentio is a crisis that. is a projecte two,â€? already agged avert We budget tial role are Budget provide adequat there has recogn “There contrib to of cuts ows 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 crisis for the Austra years only answer nity. that the “efďŹ cie 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 dâ€? 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 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 PSA will meetings with 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 4

PSA MEMBER LIA IN AUSTRA S DAY HONOUR

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

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A June 2012

The PSA leadership team with

met 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 difďŹ culties 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 OfďŹ cer Peter Christopher. the PSA ill-will created tions and the of the “efďŹ ciemonitoring 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 . dâ€? – 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,â€? by genuine acknowledging be made with PSA ced. this process efďŹ ciencies 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.â€? to ensure The

RETENTION WIN

MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS

SSO CONF

Review

LIST

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PUBLIC Page 5

ERENCE & WOMEN'S SECTOR CONF ERENCE

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