Review PUBLIC
SECTOR
www.cpsu.asn.au www.cpsu.asn.au
August 2016 2011 SEPTEMBER
Child Protection Royal Commission Two years since it began, the longawaited report into the Child Protection Systems Royal Commission was released in August. Royal Commissioner Justice Margaret Nyland made over 260 recommendations to improve the child protection system in South Australia after receiving 374 submissions – including one by the PSA - 10,800 documents and 74 stakeholder engagements. These follow interim recommendations made in June resulting in the Weatherill Government’s announcement it would establish a new Department for Child Protection, dedicated solely to the business of child protection, headed up by a new Chief Executive. The appointment of a new Chief Executive who has “strong leadership skills and established credibility in child protection work” and a reduction of hierarchies between leadership and front-line workers was another important recommendation. The PSA has welcomed the recommendations as the first of many important steps to overhaul South Australia’s flawed child protection system. “It is clear that a ‘fresh start’ for child protection in South Australia is long-overdue and the PSA is pleased to see the Premier and the Royal Commission recommendations acknowledge this,” PSA General Secretary Nev Kitchin said. “The recommendation to reduce hierarchies
between leadership and front-line workers is also a welcome and overdue step. Members should feel vindicated that their ongoing concerns have finally been acknowledged via these important recommendations.” The Royal Commissioner, Justice Margaret Nyland, stated that a “committed, serious and profound shift in leadership and culture” that was closely monitored and supervised was integral to the success of the new Department. Prior to the release of the report, the Department for Education and Child Development (DECD) finally committed to employing 30 agency staff and 20 social workers thanks to the action and commitment of PSA members in the At Breaking Point campaign. “During 2016, PSA members have been campaigning for significant change to Child Protection in SA and have shown our strength as a united group. The immediate commitments to short and medium term support, and departmental changes are a clear measure of our success,” Mr Kitchin said. The Commission assessed existing laws and policies and improvements that could be made regarding SA’s child protection system, the allocation of resources, and the procedures of Families SA and other Agencies. Nev Kitchin said PSA members have been at breaking point for some time due to the lack of resources and that they faced unrealistic and demanding workloads. “Justice Nyland’s report has clearly vindicated the PSA’s position that the child protection
system is in disarray. The protection and welfare of our most vulnerable is paramount. “The continual refusal of Families SA Executive to listen to its workforce and the disrespecting of their views has been highlighted by the Royal Commission’s report. “The creation of a new Department and a new Chief Executive needs to address this culture. This change must occur immediately.” Some of the key recommendations released in the report were: • To establish a Commissioner for Children and Young People • Limit the Child Abuse Report Line wait time to 30 minutes • Stop closing cases without investigation (within five years) • To abandon the trial of non-social workers taking calls on the abuse report hotline • To establish new leadership in the new Child Protection department retaining leaders who have experience in child protection work • Staffing increase for CARL and Crisis care response team • Employment of administrative assistants to support casework teams to manage the administrative requirements of electronic case manager system (C3MS) The PSA welcomes the report and whilst change will take time, PSA
members are committed to genuine reform and looking forward to being a genuine respected partner going forward. To see the full report, go to the Attorney General Departments website at http://www.agd.sa.gov.au/child-protectionsystems-royal-commission.
State Budget fails public sector workers The South Australian Government’s 2016/17 Budget announcement that public sector wage increases will be capped at 1.5% per annum delivers a harsh blow to the State’s public sector workers and will impact on the delivery of important services to South Australians.
Public Sector unions represented by (front) PSA General Secretary Nev Kitchin, ANMF Secretary Elizabeth Dabars, SA Unions Secretary Joe Szakacs. (Back) PSA Chief Industrial Officer Josie Barbaro and South Australian AEU Branch President Howard Spreadbury at the State Budget lock up.
PSA General Secretary Nev Kitchin said the announcement was a slap in the face for public sector workers, who have already suffered through numerous efficiency dividends over a number of years. “You cannot have a system where some public servants have been offered and accepted 2.5% annual wage increase over three years, but other public servants also working at the coalface of service delivery
are told that 1.5% is the most they can expect,” Mr Kitchin said. “This announcement shows that the State Government’s mantra of ‘One Public Sector’ is simply lip service and a slap in the face for all the goodwill public sector workers have shown to date.” The recent State Budget also announced of the “commercialisation” of transactional services administered by the Land Services Group. Mr Kitchin said this sell-off could see an increase in the cost of buying and selling property, expose owners to potential title fraud and make personal data available to the highest bidder. “The Land Services Group underpins billions of dollars of economic activity every year and our Torrens Title system is widely
acknowledged one of the best in the world. Should any function of the Land Services Group be sold to a private operator, the PSA is concerned that it will diminish the reliability and integrity of our entire titling system,” he said. “This sell-off is more than just a broken promise to the public service and the South Australian community who voted for this government. It puts at risk hundreds of public sector jobs at a time when South Australia’s unemployment is the highest in the nation.” “If the State Government is intent on decimating the public service, then we need to be prepared to fight back. It is only by standing together that we can send a strong message that public sector jobs and assets are not for sale.”
Privatisation
NAIDOC Week
New Member Benefit
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General Secretary’s column Frank and fearless advice, what’s the point if nobody is listening?
PROUD TO SERVE UNION MEMBERS
By Nev Kitchin
By Michael Griffiths
What’s the point of frank and fearless advice, if nobody is listening? There is a long standing, important if not vital tradition and expectation that the Government of the day will be given frank and fearless advice by its employees in the public sector. Over time we have seen the erosion of any sense of security for those public sector employees in management and at Director or CE levels. Short term contracts have taken over and the times when CE’s managed an organisation for that period of time are well gone. Today it seems to be a shock and awe mentality. Those who are given the imprimatur by the government of the day appear to come into government, slash and burn and then move on with immunity, with the community left to try and pick up the pieces. Those public sector workers, many of whom have decades of corporate knowledge and experience, who are brave enough to point out any pitfalls of poor policies and decisions and long term implications to our community, are simply branded as being old school irritants who are against any form of change. Revitalisation, flexibility, fiscal responsibility, restructure, champions of change are all words we have heard time and time again and have come back into fashion but distinguished in the form of a new buzzword. I think “porosity” would have to be my favourite and of course “commercialisation” with regard to cannibalism of the Land Services Group, along with the future of government ICT services. We all know there is nothing more certain than change but its simply insulting to the majority of public sector workers not to admit that its actually all about the money. The economy is driving the changes and that means reducing the cost of employees.
Review PUBLIC
President’s column
That means getting other people to do the work for less money, with less security of employment and in doing so make sure they are sufficiently afraid and will not say anything which could prove damaging to the government of the day, which ultimately costs us all more in the future. What is becoming more evident is that the public sector code of ethics has the potential to become a tool of the trade in dealing with frank and fearless advice because those who speak up are seen as being dissidents of some description. If ever there was a classic example of this, the findings of the current Royal Commission into Child Protection says it all. The employees knew the problems, those in control either knew or were ignorant of the hundreds of vacancies left floating around in cyber space and for good reason those at the coalface were in many cases, and still are, too afraid to say anything. Luckily we have a Union that can give voice to those who don’t have one, courageous members that can give us the real picture and facts within 24 hours by simple accurate analysis at the coalface, and those in the media not compromised by any allegiance to any government that may be in power at the time. What is equally disturbing are those who opposed the Union’s attempts to help our members and ultimately the children and community we serve who are now so agreeable to the findings of the recommendation. Nobody is suggesting that in particular the Families SA crisis is going to be an easy fix. It will take years of courageous and determined leadership, lots of money and most importantly troops on the ground doing the hard yards in an environment where vicarious trauma is an ever present risk to employees. The monty python news of course is that those people will be paid less than those doing the same services elsewhere because its no longer about efficiency and productivity its about.....you got it....the money.
I would like to take the opportunity as the newly elected President, to thank members within my electorate Operational Services, for their continued support over many years by electing me to continue serving on the PSA Council, and also to PSA Councillors for entrusting in me to be on Executive in the role of President. As President I will be a voice for all PSA members. I look forward in my new role to meeting with many of you, and plan in coming months to attend a number of worksite representative and member meetings across the public sector to listen to you speak about your worksite issues. Many of the challenges we face are shared, and I know there is a lot to be gained by working together and sharing experiences. Under the new PSA slogan of ‘Protection in Numbers’, and with a newly elected Council and leadership team, we have the opportunity for an innovative and fresh start for the membership to embrace and work with. One of my personal goals is to increase our union’s strength even more. We have proven time and again what incredible things we can achieve when we organise, campaign, and when needed, take action.
provide leadership when this happens. 2016 will be a year for all agencies to start preparing for our next Enterprise Bargaining Agreement for Wages Parity (Salaried), which should start in earnest after our last 2.5% payment in October. The State Budget announcement of a 1.5% wages cap is a challenge that we will soon face. Member feedback has been that this is unacceptable and unfair. PSA members are committed and dedicated public servants, continuing to serve at a high standard despite the cuts, reforms and efficiencies they have been asked to wear. This needs to be recognised during our enterprise bargaining negotiations, and we will be working closely with members when negotiations commence to ensure the best outcome possible. With a State election due March 2018 one would hope that all political parties will treat their public servants, the members of the PSA, with respect, and ensure that we are looked upon as essential services needed to ensure that the people of South Australia have the best public sector possible. The outcome of the next Enterprise Agreement negotiations may shape the opinions of public sector workers on the views of the Government towards their public servants come election time.
I urge all members to become more aware, join in and work with both your Industrial Officers and local worksite Representatives to bring together all members to enable us to ensure that we all have fair working conditions.
Finally, I would like to acknowledge the work of previous Presidents Lindsay Oxlad and Lesley Burford, and the dedication and professionalism they brought to the role. Being elected President is an honour and a privilege, and I hope to carry on the proud tradition of those before me.
Our workplaces should be fair and safe, and all too often we see changes under the banner of ‘reform’ that result in the erosion of our conditions. This cannot be tolerated, and the PSA will be there to
I look forward to serving all members of the PSA in this new role and again urge members to get involved as now is the time to become united, organised and active.
SECTOR
The Public Sector Review is an official publication of the Public Service Association of SA Inc and the Community & Public Sector Union (SPSF Group) SA Branch. Comments, letters and editorial material to: ‘The Editor,’ Public Sector Review Level 5, 122 Pirie Street, Adelaide, SA 5000. Selected articles are published electronically on the PSA Website at www.cpsu.asn.au Tel: (08) 8205 3200 Fax: (08) 8223 6509 Toll-free: 1800 811 457 Email: jxb@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 49, number 3. Responsibility for political content in this publication is taken by Josie Barbaro, Editor.
Vision Statement THE PSA WILL ACHIEVE THIS BY: • ensuring job security for members • membership involvement
The PSA will be a dynamic organisation focused on the needs and aspirations of its members throughout South Australia as the principal trade union representing workers who provide community services to South Australians.
• effective management supported by trained professional staff • continual improvement of its operations • improvement of members’ wages and working conditions • provision of industrial support and other valued benefits to members • promotion of the vital role of the public sector in the economy and community.
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The slippery slide of privatisation The 2016 State Budget, delivered in July by the Treasurer, The Hon Tom Koutsantonis MP, will be remembered as the Budget of a fundamental broken promise – the commencement of the privatisation of significant government assets. Despite a clear commitment by the Premier prior to the 2014 State Election, as well as statements provided to both the State Parliament’s House of Assembly and to the PSA in late 2013 that the “Government is committed to a policy of no privatisation of significant government assets”, the recent State Budget has clearly shattered this commitment. The Treasurer’s proposal to “commercialise” the transaction services administered by the Land Services Group (LSG) needs to be seen for what it is – a public asset sell off. It doesn’t matter how you spin the privatisation of a public asset – it is still privatisation and it is a broken promise. The State Government’s intent to offer a long term outsourcing contract (ie 40 years) to the private sector to deliver transactional processes on behalf of the Government, is not only a broken promise, but it also impacts on public sector jobs at a time where South Australia has the highest unemployment rate across the country. The obvious question needs to be asked – why the broken promise? There are also some fundamental answers to questions that both PSA members and the South Australian community are entitled to be provided with.
For example, what legislative change - if any - is required to enact such a sale? What safeguards are in place to protect the private information of current property owners or property transactions? What guarantees are in place to protect the community from fraud and/ or increased charges? Despite the Government advising that it had engaged an external company to commence a scoping study, the PSA has not been provided with any detail that provides any basis for such a sale. It is clear to the PSA that a public asset, such as the Land Services Group, has been targeted to pay down debt and fund infrastructure projects, at the cost of public sector jobs. No matter what the circumstances, any sell off of the Land Services Group will diminish the reliability and integrity of our titling system. Make no mistake, the privatisation juggernaut won’t end with the LSG. What about ICT, Disability SA and Return to Work (RTW) claims management? This is not about one broken promise, but potentially many more. Who will be next? The slippery slope of the privatisation of further public assets is well underway. Once assets are sold, there is no turning back. The PSA is conducting a number of worksite visits across the State and has called on the Premier to reconsider the announcement. The State Government must be held to account on its pre-election promises. Anything less is not acceptable and must be challenged.
PSA Vice Presidents Raylene Dawson and Noel Mensforth showing their support for the Land Services Group at the PSA Anti-Privatisation rally.
Enterprise Bargaining – public sector workers deserve better The best laid plans are inevitability interrupted by factors outside your control. The State Budget’s announcement of a cap of future public sector wages outcomes has been the catalyst for PSA Worksite Representatives endorsing, the commencement of a round of member meetings across South Australia to seek support for a statewide campaign against this announcement. Until now, 2016 has been focused on member engagement. The current Wages Parity (Salaried) Enterprise Agreement 2014 having a nominal expiry date in early December 2016. Exploring how matters be improved in the Agreement – what works and what doesn’t - in a challenging political and economic environment, has been a topic for members to consider. The PSA conducted its first round of visits in March, in conjunction with an online survey that attracted significant responses from members in relation to what they wanted achieved in a new Agreement. Job protection, wages and conditions, workloads, classification and standardisation were all rated highly.
Whilst the current round of over 200 site visits across the State was intended to focus on member feedback on a draft claim, the decision by the State Government in July’s State Budget to cap future public service pay rises is a game changer!
Whilst a wages cap is a challenge, it provides PSA members the opportunity to campaign. Back in 2010, the PSA’s Hold this Government to Account campaign was effective and succeeded in addressing the inequities that were announced in previous budgets.
Members are encouraged to attend meetings and
The proposition that public sector workers, working side by side, have different wage outcomes is fundamentally flawed. The creation of a two-tier wage outcome directly contradicts the Government’s One Government – One Employer mantra. This is yet another example of talk not being backed up by actions.
PSA members are proven campaigners.
deserve so much better!
support the campaign. It is only with numbers and member activity that the Government’s unfair policy can be challenged. PSA members, and the community they serve,
Whether you work in the Education, Health or Justice areas, PSA members deserve to be treated equally and fairly – the creation of second class workers cannot and will not be tolerated. Make no mistake, the very principle of best endeavours bargaining is under threat. The system that encourages without prejudice discussions and negotiations has lost its balance as a result of the 2016 State Budget. The employer has been handed a strong advantage and as such, the belief in a truly fair system has been compromised.
ARE YOU RECEIVING OUR EMAIL UPDATES?
The PSA provides 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 to enquiries@cpsu.asn.au with the details and your membership record will be updated.
PSA Chief Industrial Officer Josie Barbaro addressing a meeting of PSA Worksite Representatives following the handing down of the State Budget 2016-2017.
FEDERAL WEBSITE CPSU
The website has general interest areas, a links page and specific sections for women, schools, higher education and corrective services.
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Regional News: Connecting with regional SSOs Always keen to connect with regional members, the Limestone Coast School Services Officers (SSO) Conference in Mt Gambier held in May, and the June Regional Ancillary Focussed Training (RAFT) Conference in Glossop in the Riverland, provided a great opportunity to do so.
PSA SSO Conference: Tuesday, 25 October 2016 The PSA SSO Conference will be held on Tuesday 25 October 2016 at the PSA - 122 Pirie Street. If you are a School Services Officer and PSA member, register for the conference today at www.cpsu.asn.au/training-programs/course-signups/psa-ssoconference-2016 or email enquiries@cpsu.asn.au
The conferences, attracting around 150 participants each, enabled PSA staff an opportunity to engage with members from the South East and the Riverland where workload issues and permanency were discussed as the biggest issues facing members.
This year, the PSA wants to recognise a truly outstanding SSO who goes above and beyond with students, staff or the community. Anyone can nominate an SSO - so send in your nomination to the PSA at enquiries@cpsu.asn.au and tell us why you believe they deserve recognition.
A highlight of the RAFT conference with the theme of “Interactive Changing Times” with a speaker from SAPOL who discussed issues relating to cyber crime. “The only way is up” provided the South East conference theme with speakers such as Richard Pascoe from the Adelaide Tech Guy, Fran Kelly discussing wellbeing, and Robyn Moore with her session on “power of the world”.
Winners will be announced at the PSA SSO Conference in October.
SSOs: The Heart of our Schools
PSA attended the SSO Conference at Greenwith in August to speak with School Services Officers. PSA Industrial Officer Alan Wheeldon pictured with PSA members.
Regional conferences allow the PSA to remind members of the benefits of belonging to the Union and to welcome new members. The PSA will be hosting its own SSO conference on 25 October 2016. An extension of the SSO recognition week activities (15-19 August), the Conference is an informative and interactive event allowing SSO’s to discuss issues, network and identify priorities for future campaigns. To register for the conference go to www.cpsu.asn.au/training-programs/ course-signups/psa-sso-conference-2016
PSA SSO Conference: Tuesday, 25 October 2016
RAFT organising committee at the conference in Glossop.
Transforming Health update The PSA’s Transforming Health Project Officer continues to engage with PSA members regarding the changes occurring within our public health system as a result of the reforms.
Work is being done at Modbury Hospital, with plans including a hydrotherapy pool, therapy garden and rehabilitation centre.
Some of the activities include; • The PSA continues to be represented on the Peak Union Forum that now meets monthly. At these meetings, the Minister’s Clinical Advisory Groups (MCAGs) continue to do presentations on the projects being developed. • A number of project standards have now been approved or approvals are pending by the Transforming Health Implementation Committee (THIC). The Project Summary and MCAG Project Dashboard are now up on PSA Transforming Health webpage. • The PSA has developed a Transforming Health Q&A pamphlet that is being distributed out at Local Health Network sites. • Capital works being undertaken at a number of the Local Health Networks (LHNs) are well underway. This will enable services to be moved once this work
Training Courses
is completed. The Modbury Hospital works include a Hydrotherapy pool and therapy garden, as well as a Rehabilitation Centre. • The Service moves from Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN) to Northern Adelaide Local Health Network (NALHN) has commenced with the selection process for staff now underway. The actual movement of services will be done in three phases commencing in October 2016. • Southern Adelaide Local Health Network (SALHN) has now commenced consultation with staff on the planned Repatriation General Hospital (RGH) services moves and decommissioning of the site to be finalised in December 2017. Within this plan there are a total of 118 beds to be cut from the bed stock for the South (this includes the 20 beds that are already closed). • Planning is continuing for the opening of the new Royal Adelaide Hospital, although the technical completion date has still not been announced, and the ‘Ramp Down’ prior to moving from the old site is being discussed. The PSA will continue to discuss reforms with members. For the latest update visit the PSA website at www.cpsu.asn. au/transforming-health.
September – November 2016
Knowledge is Power. The PSA is committed to providing you with support, encouragement and training opportunities to assist you. Training courses are designed to help you in your employment. We hope that you can use the information gained to make your work rewarding and your workplace fairer and safer. To find out more about PSA’s training courses please visit the PSA website: www.cpsu.asn.au/training-programs
Course
Date
Time
13 September 14 September 28 September
9:00am – 5:00pm 9:00am – 5:00pm 9:00am – 5:00pm
21 September
12:00pm – 1:30pm
27 October
12:00pm – 2:00pm
Super SA – Early Access to Super (For Triple S Scheme Members)
23 November
12:00pm – 1:00pm
Negotiations Skills Course
2 November
9:00am – 4:30pm
Worksite Representatives Training Course (three day course) Super SA – Centrelink (For All Scheme Members) Super SA – My Retirement (For Triple S Scheme Members)
Day 1 Day 2 Day 3
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NAIDOC week march The PSA celebrated the important contribution Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members make to our union by marching in July for the annual NAIDOC week march. NAIDOC week is held each year in recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and achievements
with the origins being traced to the emergence of Aboriginal groups in the 1920s which sought to increase awareness in the wider community of the status and treatment of Indigenous Australians. PSA staff and members walked with other unions and hundreds of members of the community in recognition of the contribution that Indigenous Australians make to South Australia.
PSA members recognised in Queen’s Birthday Honours A number of PSA members have been recognised in the most recent Queen’s Birthday Honours, celebrating a diverse range of contributions across professional fields, community work and emergency services. Ian Tanner - Australian Fire Service Medal Ian Tanner is a recognised leader and practitioner of fire management in South Australia. He has considerable fire management experience, and has been engaged as the Senior Regional Fire Management Officer for the Department of Environment Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR) since early 2004. Ian leads the planning and implementation of the prescribed burning program for the high risk Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges (AMLR) Region, where DEWNR plans and conducts between 35 and 50 burns annually, including burns on behalf of SA Water and ForestrySA. Ian also provides a lead role in Fire Management Planning within the AMLR and fire suppression in the state more broadly. Ian is an Incident Controller for one of the SA State pre-formed Level 3 Incident Management Teams, and is well respected in this capacity having been an IC with the teams since their inception in 2009. In 2008 he was deployed to the California Wildfires as part of the Australian Contingent where he worked as a Divisional Commander.
Ian Tanner - Australian Fire Service Medal
In 2014 he was again joined deployed overseas, this time to Canada. He facilitated an agreement between Australia and Canada to support the deployment of 102 Australian fire fighters into two Canadian Provinces. Ian is passionate about the development of fire management personnel, passing on his learnings and experience by training and developing new recruits and project fire fighters employed by DEWNR.
Brian Holecek – Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australian in the General Division Brian Holecek has been recognised for his service to fire and emergency response organisations, and to youth.
Medial for outstanding public service to economic, social and environmental policy reform in South Australia. Mr Hocking has contributed to a range of local reforms, most notably the changes to compulsory insurance for people injured in motor vehicle accidents which resulted in the establishment of a no fault lifetime support scheme for those who suffer catastrophic spinal and brain injuries. He was also recognised for his contribution to social and environmental policy reforms including the development of the Climate Change strategy that underpins the City of Adelaide’s ambitions to be the world’s first Carbon Neutral City and South Australia’s plans to have net zero emissions by 2050.
Brian Holecek – Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australian in the General Division
Mr Holecek has held a range of roles in the South Australian Division of the Australian Institute of Emergency Services, a professional body dedicated to the progression and recognition of the Emergency Service role in the community. He has also been actively involved in the community for the past 37 years as a volunteer firefighter, originally in the Blue Mountains NSW and the past 26 years with the CFS. Mr Holecek’s community involvement also includes over 20 years with Scouts SA and 14 years as Chairperson with the RSL Anzac Youth Vigil in the South, as a member of the Returned and Services League of Australia, Morphett Vale Sub-Branch. Mr Holecek said he was very appreciative of this award and stressed that “his efforts would not of been possible without the help of others”. He said “he believed people should always try give back to their community whenever they in a position to, community service is an important part of the fabric of modern day society.” Stuart Hocking – Public Service Medal Stuart Hocking was one of three South Australians awarded a Public Service
Stuart Hocking – Public Service Medal
Anne Rathjen - Public Service Medal Anne Rathjen has been awarded the Public Service Medal for her extensive work in minimising the supply and impact of illicit drugs nationwide. Dr Rathjen is recognised as a leader in drug strategy and policy development aimed at supply reduction and harm minimisation relative to illicit drugs. Her expertise in drug intelligence has identified new drug manufacturing techniques and significant drug trends, such as high toxicity, has provided education and early warnings to the South Australian community. She is also widely recognised as an exemplary role model and mentor to women in policing and the police services generally.
Competition News Join a Friend a Win Competition
update
One of the most important things we can do is continue to grow our union. Recognising this and acknowledging the valuable work PSA members do recruiting their colleagues, the PSA has been running a competition for existing members to recruit a new member and go into the draw to win a $100 gift card for you, and a $50 gift card for the member you recruit. Winners since the last edition of the Review were Alexandra Matthews from Flinders Medical Centre recruiting Sarah Aust also from Flinders Medical Centre and Rhonda Kimpton recruiting Heather Wheeler both from Families SA – all winners received a gift card of their choice. Well done to Rhonda, Heather, Sarah and Alexandra. The Join a Friend and Win competition is open until 31 December. You can enter by recruiting a member and simply writing ‘Join a Friend’ along with your name and contact details on the membership form and send to the PSA. *Terms and conditions apply – see our website www.cpsu.asn.au for more details.
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Enjoy a PSA holiday home! Take advantage of another great PSA member benefit – affordable accommodation at popular South Australian destinations. The PSA has a number of holiday homes/units available for members to enjoy at affordable rates. Located at Glenelg, Goolwa, Kangaroo Island, Port Lincoln, Port Vincent, Robe and Wirrina, there are 14 self-contained homes/units available. Homes/units cater for five to six people and are equipped with stoves and refrigerators, microwave ovens, high definition TVs, blu-ray players, crockery and cutlery. Standard weekly bookings are from 2.00pm Saturday until 10.00am the following Saturday. Nightly bookings are available (conditions apply). The homes are offered during school holidays on a ballot system. Off season rates do not apply during school holidays. Refer to PSA website for details. Stay Costs (subject to change) Peak Season: weekly stays (seven nights) $575 (Kangaroo Island) / $470 (All other homes). Off-peak Season: weekly stays (seven nights) $435 (Kangaroo Island) / $330 (All other homes). All Year: Nightly rate of $85.00. Terms & Conditions of Hire/Cancellation Policy For full terms and conditions, along with cancellation requirements, refer to the PSA website: www.cpsu.asn.au Enquiries or Bookings Email: holidayhomes@cpsu.asn.au
Goolwa
S T C s m
A u 2 a b m M r t t t w c i T w f f r a P s o r a
Wirrina
Did you know PSA members can book Holiday Homes in New Zealand Take advantage of our reciprocal arrangement with the New Zealand Public Service Association. Stay at one of the 41 holiday homes located in seven locations across New Zealand. Nightly rates start from NZ$51, with units able to sleep 2 to 8 people.
classifieds OUTBACK VENTURE: Nick Bailey, former PSA member, is a fully accredited Eco guide, runs a private conservation area and B&B north of Quorn near Warrens George. Nick was a wildlife Ranger for over 30 years working with the National Parks Service throughout the Australian Outback and lectured in evolution and natural science to community schools for the SA Museum. Keen 4WD adventurers who would like to venture where few can go should contact Nick. For more information go to www.flindersrangesbandb.com or ring Nick or Yvonne on (08) 86486008 or mobile 0458886310. Don’t forget to ask for the special deal for PSA members!
REAL ESTATE
KINGFISHER LODGE, EDITHBURGH, YORKE PENINSULA
pillows provided. 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. Facilities include flat screen TV, DVD/video, CD/ cassette player, table tennis, games, washing machine, iron, bar fridge and freezer. Outside BBQ area and parking. Situated in the centre of Edithburgh, short walk from shops, and dining options, jetty, swimming areas, boat ramp, tennis courts, the flora park and golf course. View house images at www.edithburgh.net Email bookings@kingfisherwww.com or contact Cathy on 0412 641404.
Luxury/corporate rental available for short or long term rental in Encounter Bay SA @$600/week
Seacliff Beach Holiday Hideaway
Sleeping up to 10 people (4 large bedrooms including two queen size beds) easily catering for 2 families. Two other bedrooms each contain a single bed and double bunks. Quilts (with covers) and
Fully furnished, short-term holiday rental available. Located on beach front next to the Seacliff Beach Hotel and close to Brighton and Glenelg this unit has everything a fun time can offer. Will sleep 4 or 5 (if someone is happy to sleep on the couch). Walk across the road to swim or sit on the balcony and watch the sunset - whatever your preferred method of relaxing, this is the place to be. For more information check out http://seacliffbeachholidayhideaway.com/, for rates please contact Di Rankine at enquiry@ seacliffbeachholidayhideaway.com
CITY COMMUNITY CHILDREN’S CENTRE
Evening Child Care A convenient service which is available for children aged 6 weeks to 10 years. It operates on both a permanent and casual basis, and can be booked at short notice. You can use evening care for any reason:
Night out – Dinner or Movie? • Shift work? Studying? • Want a break?
When is it available?
Wednesday Night Thursday Night Friday (overnight available)
6:00pm – 12.00am 6:00pm – 12:00am 6:00pm – 7:45am
What is the cost?
The cost will vary between the minimum and maximum as outlined below: One Session Overnight
Temptation Dolphin Swim
Fully furnished 2 storey/3 bed/2 bath in quiet location with panoramic ocean views over granite island and the bluff. Upstairs kitchen and living/ dining with sliding doors which open out onto large deck. 5 min walk to the beach. A/C/security entry/no pets/contact Sue mobile 0499 637 360
Min. Cost* $24.50 $32.90
Max. Cost* $50.00 $87.00
*Subject to change without notice. Actual cost depends on the level of your CCB eligibility. *Prices shown are before child care 50% rebate. Please note: Price increase from July. One session min $25 max $50. Overnight min is $40 and max is $95.
Contact us now on (08) 8212 2377 • Located: 104 Gilbert Street, Adelaide
order using EFT (no surcharge). Target Gift Card redeemable at: Target and Target Country stores. Not redeemable at Target Online. Conditions and exclusions apply. For full Terms of Use visit giftcards.com.au or phone 1300 725 159 Website www.ambassadorcard.com.au/ecard-intro.php
While sightseeing in Adelaide, don’t miss this unique chance to come face-to-face with dolphins! Be taken out on a 58ft Sailing Catamaran from Glenelg (just 15 minutes from Adelaide’s CBD). Marvel at the antics of these amazing creatures, as you swim and play right near them for over an hour. If getting wet is not your thing, then you can enjoy watching the dolphins from the deck of the catamaran. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture these unforgettable moments. 1300 935 532 Phone Address Holdfast Prom, Glenelg, SA, Australia Glenelg 5045 Website ambassador.experienceoz.com.au/adelaide/tours/ swim-with-the-dolphins-from-glenelg
Veneta Blinds
Our promise to you is that Veneta Blinds will deliver beautiful custom-made blinds directly to your door within 14 days, wherever you live in Australia. Transforming your home with the latest trends in top quality blinds has never been so easy. At Veneta, we guarantee a trouble free buying experience, which doesn’t break your budget or your patience. Phone 1300 836 382 Website www.venetablinds.com.au
Dining Namaste Nepalese Restaurant
Save up to $22 off one course with the payment of a main course of equal or greater value. Not valid banquets, take away or delivery. Bookings essential. Valid Dinner:- 7 days. Namaste offers a fusion of the best of North Indian, Chinese and Tibetan flavours. A cuisine full of fresh wonderful flavours, which allows you to indulge in a feast of aromatic dishes. Phone (08) 8272 2288 Address 41 George Street Parkside 5063 Website namasterestaurant.com.au
eGiftcards Target
Order online at www.ambassador@ambassadorcard.com.au to prepurchase eGift Cards and receive 5% rebate. eGift Cards, are available in denominations of even 100s. Maximum per order $1,000 with a monthly maximum of $5,000. Target eGift Card, if lost cannot be replaced or cancelled. 1% surcharge applies to all credit card transactions or place an
Priceline eGift Cards
Priceline Gift Cards Treat yourself or a loved one to health, beauty and wellbeing products with a Priceline Gift Card or eGift Card. With an extensive range of beauty and health essentials, including cosmetics, skincare, fragrances and vitamins, Priceline is the perfect store for pampering! Priceline Gift Cards & eGift Cards are treated as cash, and can be used for purchases in participating Priceline stores after activation. Cards cannot be exchanged for cash, used online, or replaced if lost, stolen or damaged. The balance that remains on the card may be used in whole or part in Priceline but change cannot be given. Balances can be verified in Priceline stores or online at www.priceline.com.au/giftcards Cards expire 12 months after activation. See www.priceline.com.au/giftcards for full terms and conditions and participating stores. Phone 1300 724 477 Website www.ambassadorcard.com.au/card-purchase.php
GIFT CARDS CHANGE IN SAVINGS NOW 7.5% BCF Boating, Camping and Fishing Gift Cards Rays Outdoors Gift Cards Rebel Sport Gift Cards Supercheap Auto Gift Cards
NATIONAL ADDITIONS
AprEs Photography
4 Sherley Drive, Para Hills 5096 Ph. 0431 249 808 www.apresphotography.com Mention your Membership Card at the time of booking to save 20% off all photography sessions, including weddings (up to $960 in savings). Pacific Magazines Media City, 8 Central Ave, Eveleigh 2015 Ph. (02) 9394 2087 www.subscribetoday.com.au/AMBASSADOR Members will save a further 15% off the already discounted prices. Simply click on the link to purchase
DELETIONS Chilli Chi - Maylands
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AYTC secures staff and resources following ongoing action Staff at the Adelaide Youth Training Centre (AYTC) in Cavan have secured additional staff and resources following months of industrial action. AYTC workers had been undertaking action since September 2015 amid concerns over resident and staff safety by holding recess breaks in units and restricting the movement of residents. Members were seeking the recruitment of 20 additional full time staff, the conversion of part time staff (who are working full time hours) to ongoing positions as well as an independent review of current staffing, safety practices and infrastructure at Cavan. The action intensified in June when members voted to place further restrictions, after members felt that their ongoing safety and resourcing concerns were not being appropriately addressed. PSA General Secretary Nev Kitchin said the action followed a number of incidents between residents, residents and staff and concerns about individual residents safety.
“This industrial action was not about punishing the residents at Cavan,” Mr Kitchin said. “Members simply want to ensure a safe environment for all residents and staff.” Following this intensified action, the Department for Communities and Social Inclusion (DCSI) committed to the following: • Convert 15 part time/temporary to ongoing full time employees • Recruit 15 additional FTE OPS and BSO roles • Manage long term vacancies with the continuing use of contract staff to cover in excess of 10 positions • Reclassifying night shift works from OPS1 to OPS2 • Confirmation of an OPS5 night shift roster and OPS6/ASO7 coverage at other peak times While these immediate additional resources are a positive step, the PSA will still continue to hold the Department to account to implement further measures. At the time of writing, issues relating to crib breaks and MAYBO restraint techniques remained unresolved.
PSA Wins: Domiciliary Care workers secure backpay win Domiciliary Care workers have finally received their backpayments after the PSA identified that many had been paid under the incorrect schedule in the Enterprise Agreement. The PSA initially determined in February 2015 that Weekly Health Ancillary 3 (WHA3) Direct Careworkers were being underpaid and notified the Department of Communities and Social Inclusion (DCSI). Over a year later, following ongoing
representations from the PSA, DCSI confirmed in April that affected staff will be translated into either a WHA4 or 5 classification. These members should have now received their backpay, which dates back to 2010 in many cases. If you believe you are being underpaid or have noted any inconsistencies in your wages or conditions please notify either your worksite representative or the PSA via enquiries@cpsu.asn.au or on 8205 3227.
DCS update: Members lift action on transportation of prisoners PSA members in the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) have voted to lift industrial action over the transportation of prisoners. The work bans related to the transportation and admission of prisoners prior to 0830 and after 1800 (except on public holidays), in line with the Correctional Services Regulations 2001. The PSA maintained that changes to these times could only occur in emergency admissions and extenuating circumstances, not to meet the current bedspace crisis. The decision to lift the bans follows numerous meetings at the South Australian Industrial Relations Commission (SAIRC) and with DCS management, which resulted in the SAIRC recommending the bans be lifted so long as the Department commits to the following: • Ensuring that prisoners are admitted to DCS Prisons within the regulation hours of 0900
to 1800 except where good reason exists. • Genuinely engaging, consulting and working with the PSA so as to deal with the out of regulation hours admission problem and in the development of protocols for such admissions. • Arranging centralised weekly meetings with PSA Worksite Representatives from all prison sites to further discuss and resolve the out of hours admissions issue. PSA members voted to accept the SAIRC’s recommendation, also advising DCS management that in order to ensure further dispute does not arise in this matter they must immediately initiate a schedule of weekly meetings. The PSA will keep members advised of developments and congratulates all members for standing united for the last few months to ensure the issue of prisoner transportation is properly addressed.
The more things change... The PSA has had a long proud history spanning across 131 years. Edited highlights from the Public Sector Review provide a snapshot into the Sector as it was throughout the years.
100 Years Ago “ New scale of travelling expenses... It will be a source of gratification to those officers of the Service whose duties call them away from home at times to know that the efforts of the Association to obtain fairer rates of travelling allowances have at last been crowned with success. Last week’s “Gazette” contained the information that the Government has approved of the following scale: Outside 10 mile radius from Centre when salary is £600 per annum or over, 15/ per day. When salary is under £600 per annum, 12/6 per day. When salary is under £400 per annum, 10/ per day. Daily paid staff – as fixed by agreement or arbitration. Officers travelling outside the State to receive 5/ per day in addition to above rates. Inside 10 mile radius – two shillings for each meal or bed if the expense is actually and necessarily incurred. These rates should give general satisfaction, and it is particularly pleasing that the lower paid officers, who previously received only 8/ per day for travelling expenses, and were invariably out of pocket at the end of each trip, will now receive 10/ , and so should cover their expenses. The new rates will apply from September 11.” September 1916, pg 109
50 Years ago “The Ball... At the Public Service ball the visitors were partnered on the dance floor by some of our most charming female members from the service, capably chaperoned by Mary Olivian, of the Public Buildings Department, to whom we extend our grateful thanks for her interest and co-operation and ask to convey our appreciation to the girls. Incidentally, the Ball, voted as one of the most successful conducted by the Association, attracted a crowd of 1,400.” September 1966, pg 11
25 Years Ago “WorkCover rally well attended... Despite extremely cold and windy conditions, around 800 union members turned up to a lunch time rally on Friday, August 23, to defend WorkCover benefits. The turnout which under the conditions was a pleasing response for the organisers, including a large contingent of PSA members. A number of WorkCover employees, some of which are PSA members, came out of the building to demonstrate their commitment against the negative change to WorkCover. The possibility of weakened benefits under the WorkCover legislation recent times been a critical issue for SA Unions. Few issues have galvanised and united unions as strongly as this one.” September 1991
Congratulations to new corrections officers who recently graduated. PSA Assistant General Secretary Natasha Brown with PSA Industrial Officer Ted Szarek and PSA member Heather Murchie attending a Graduation Ceremony for Correctional Officers in August.
New website - another way to access your member benefits The PSA has launched a new website allowing members to purchase a range of discounted gift cards, movie tickets and other Ambassador Card benefits online. All PSA members have access to the Ambassador Card as a benefit of their membership, providing savings at more than 2,000 venues nationwide. The new website – available at http:// psa.ambassadorcard.com.au/ - provides members with access to discounts in a range of categories including accommodation, shopping, leisure, automotive and home services. Members can also purchase a range of discount eGift Cards and eMovie Tickets online for delivery via email. Some of the retailers participating in the discount scheme include Target, Priceline, Kmart, The Good Guys, JB Hi-Fi, BCF and Rays Outdoors –
just to name a few. The website is particularly beneficial for members in regional areas and those unable to purchase discount cards in person from our Member Benefit Centre. The PSA still offers Coles, Woolworths, Harris Scarfe and Foodland Gift Cards which can be ordered via the Member Benefits page of the PSA website and are posted to you free of charge. Members can also still visit the PSA Member Benefit Centre at 122 Pirie Street, Adelaide. The PSA Member Benefits team continually strive to improve our offerings for members and their families. We welcome any feedback or suggestions you may have on enhancing the extensive range of nonindustrial benefits that we provide. Send your suggestions to the PSA at enquiries@cpsu.asn.au.
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PUBLIC SECTOR REVIEW SEPTEMBER 2016
YOU CAN’T AFFORD NOT TO
JOIN THE PSA EVERYDAY SAVINGS
PSA members enjoy discounts - Metrocard Recharge (5%), Various Giftcards (5 - 10%) & discounted Movie & Special Event Tickets.
HOLIDAY SAVINGS
PSA members can book our Holiday Homes at great prices (locations in SA and NZ).
DISCOUNTED PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE
PSA Members get up to 10% discount from Health Partners (conditions apply).
BETTER WAGES & CONDITIONS Union members have their wages and conditions negotiated by trained, experienced staff. Unions work to ensure that workplaces comply with health and safety legislation.
COMPREHENSIVE INDUSTRIAL ADVICE Members can access expert industrial advice and representation from specialist PSA staff. Member Rights Hotline is a dedicated phone line for member enquiries, available Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.
AMBASSADOR CARD SAVINGS PSA members receive an Ambassador Card and member handbook for even more savings including restaurants and hotels around Australia.
AFFORDABLE & TAX DEDUCTIBLE
PSA subscriptions are only 0.95% of substantive base salary (plus GST) to a maximum of the ASO5 (or equivalent) rate and are fully tax deductible.
STAY INFORMED & INFLUENCE POLICY PSA members receive up to date industrial information. PSA members have the opportunity to contribute and influence issues at a workplace, agency and political level through campaigns, industrial forums and meetings with Ministers. Authorised by Nev Kitchin, General Secretary, Public Service Association of SA Inc. 122 Pirie Street, Adelaide SA 5000.
www.cpsu.asn.au
LEGAL ASSISTANCE & JOURNEY ACCIDENT INSURANCE PSA members have access to legal advice, assistance and family mediation services through our free Legal Services Scheme. PSA membership also provides free income protection from the minute that you join, through our Journey Accident Cover. You will be covered for up to $1,200 per week for up to 104 weeks plus death and disability insurance up to $100,000.
PROTECTION IN NUMBERS Belonging to a union empowers members to make positive changes at work and in the community. Be part of a strong network of like minded people across the public sector. Join Today. 1800 811 457
www.cpsu.asn.au