Employee forums update
Issue raised
Description
Action taken
Communication of policy and procedures
Addressing the gap in information and communication, particularly human resources procedures, guides, information and other resources that are available across a range of topics.
HR News articles are now being sent to all employees in QAS to ensure that everyone receives important updates and information first hand and at the time of release.
Employee recognition process
Employees having to apply for their own recognition of service medals.
A more appropriate process driven by the QAS to better recognise service and achievements is being implemented.
Workforce flexibility
Employees reported concerns with shift overruns, and achieving work-life balance via flexible shift arrangements.
As an initial step, the QAS has revised its QAS HR Procedure – Flexible Work Arrangements. Further work will occur in this area and will be a key issue of review for the Implementation Group.
Single-day Accrued Time (AT) access
Employees reported inconsistencies across LASNs in relation to the accessing of single day Accrued Time (AT) leave.
As an immediate measure, the Commissioner issued a directive advising all LASNs that access to single day AT leave is available, subject to operational requirements being met.
Health and wellbeing
Employees wanted more information, support and resources to help better manage health and wellbeing and to manage the impacts of shift work.
Updated and new resources, including links and information about the ‘get healthy’ program, are now available on the QAS portal via the QHEPS website. Further work has begun in this area and will be progressed through a joint union and management Fitness for Duty Working Group.
Complaints management
Employees commented on the complexities of the complaints management process, particularly that many employees do not understand the process and how it is managed; additionally, there were concerns about complaints not being managed appropriately.
The Commissioner issued a specific communiqué to all employees regarding the Complaints Management procedure and how to access procedures to lodge a complaint.
Recognition of employees acting in higher roles
Employees were concerned about the lack of recognition of staff acting in higher positions, in particular the inability of the employee acting to wear the epaulettes for the higher position during the period of higher duties.
In June 2017, the Commissioner issued a communiqué advising operational staff that they can wear the rank of an acting position while acting in a higher position, effective immediately.
Employees raised concerns regarding the consistency and transparency in decision making related to compassionate transfers.
A review of the process was undertaken and compassionate transfer requests have now been centralised for Paramedic, Patient Transport Officer (PTO) and Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) roles. Information can be found on the Human Resources page on the QAS portal.
Compassionate transfers
Employee engagement forums will continue in 2018 on the back of their success this year and there will be further opportunities for participation from employees in these forums. In the meantime, employees are welcome to submit their views, ideas or suggestions to: QAS.Commissioner@ambulance.qld.gov.au
Summer 2017–18
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