By Your Side Magazine by The Services Union

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IN THIS ISSUE ...

BRISBANE

CENTRAL QUEENSLAND OFFICE 178 Quay Street (PO Box 5160) Red Hill, Rockhampton Q 4701

NORTH QUEENSLAND OFFICE 485 Flinders Street (PO Box 135) Townsville Q 4810

INDUSTRIAL OFFICERS: Aaron Alexander, Sig Bowman, Maddy McGinnity, Josh Maguire, Davis Murphy, John Spreckley, Jessica Wiggan

DEVELOPMENT

LOCAL AUTHORITIES - Setting the pace in EBA negotiations SACS - Restoring respect and strengthening the industry RAIL - Getting negotiations on track AIRLINES - Slow going at Qantas PORTS - Wages Policy update CLERICAL - Action at Apple

A STRONG VOICE IN THE POLITICAL ARENA

BY NEIL HENDERSON

IT’S BEEN A HUGE YEAR FOR THE SERVICES UNION AND THE ELECTION OF THE ALBANESE LABOR GOVERNMENT HAS OPENED DOORS WHICH WE HAVEN’T WASTED ANY TIME GOING THROUGH.

Our Union participated in a Local Government Industry Summit, held in Parliament House Canberra, and organised by the ASU National Office. This was a wonderful opportunity to speak directly to the Cabinet Minister responsible for the Local Government Industry, Catherine King MP, and Local Government Minister Kristy McBain MP about increasing the amount of money allocated for financial assistance grants to the sector. We also had the chance to speak with Minister for Employment and Training Brendan O’Connor MP and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese MP, about jobs and skills in Local Government.

It was also wonderful to catch up with Senator for Victoria, Linda White who is our former Assistant National Secretary and Airlines Industry advocate. Linda is still passionately interested in the Airline Industry and the work our members do. In her role as Senator, Linda will be working closely with our Union on issues that continue to affect this industry.

We were also able to meet with Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme and Minister for Government Services Bill Shorten MP and brief him on the numerous issues confronting our members under the NDIS. These include: under classification; misclassification as Homecare workers; inadequate time to do associated administrative

work; and inadequate funding for training. One of the other issues the ASU raised in Canberra was the need to supplement funding in the Social and Community Services Industry to cover the rises in the cost of living and wage increases impacting our members. The Albanese Government listened in the October budget with funding increasing by $560 million.

Our Union was also successful in advocating the same issue with the Queensland Government when Treasurer Cameron Dick MP found an additional $50 million to supplement community services funding to cover increases in Award wages and the cost of living. It was great to be listened to for a change and to have our members’ concerns taken onboard and acted on swiftly.

We look set to finish the year in the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission (QIRC) arguing for decent pay rises in Local Government. Some councils must do more to hold and attract staff by ensuring employees are paid a wage that keeps up with the cost of living. This year has seen our Union arguing about wages in the QIRC on more occasions than in the preceding ten years. Happily, these arguments are paying off with each outing improving on what the employer was prepared to offer. It really does pay to be a union member!

On behalf of myself and Executive President Jennifer Thomas, we wish all members a happy and safe festive season. We look forward to working with you all in 2023.

ABOVE:PRIME MINISTER ANTHONY ALBANESE MP, MINISTER FOR EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING BRENDAN O’CONNOR MP AND THE ASU DELEGATION AT PARLIAMENT HOUSE, CANBERRA.

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ACHIEVING OUR UNION’S OBJECTIVES

BY KATE COTTER

WITH MAJOR CAMPAIGN WINS, SUCCESSFUL ENTERPRISE BARGAINING AGREEMENT (EBA) OUTCOMES AS WELL AS A GROWING MEMBERSHIP, THE SERVICES UNION CAN BE PROUD OF ITS ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2022.

There is no doubt the past three years have been difficult for everyone due to factors such as the Covid pandemic and the rising costs of living. One thing is certain, our leadership team headed by our innovative elected officials, Secretary Neil Henderson, and Executive President Jennifer Thomas along with our dedicated member elected Branch Executive and Council have remained focused on achieving the objectives of our Union. Not only have we had big issue campaign wins such as paid Domestic and Family Violence Leave and Workplace Health and Safety legislation, we’ve also remained diligent on ensuring our members get the wages and working conditions they deserve in their EBAs; even if this has meant attending the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission and the Fair Work Commission more than we would have liked. Our Union is in safe hands with a team which works constructively and isn’t afraid to approach difficult issues with ingenuity.

In my own sector, Local Government, ensuring that we campaign to strengthen the industry by collaborating with all Councils to develop and

implement improved health and wellbeing for workers has been another priority. This means focussing not only fair pay and working conditions, but also job security and robust Workplace Health and Safety policies with a priority on mental health and a positive work/life balance. In September, it was wonderful to be part of the ASU delegation to Canberra where we were able to speak constructively with Local Government Ministers, Kristy McBain MP, and Catherine King MP. At the meetings, we discussed Local Government financial assistance grants as well as our Union’s policy of one percent of tax revenue flowing back to the industry. It was refreshing to be welcomed federally to the discussion table with our Union’s ideas and concerns. Having a Labor Government at both state and federal levels, enables us to have more constructive conversations about our member priorities, but doesn’t mean we can become complacent and think our campaign objectives will just be handed to us. We must continue to remain focused on achieving our objectives to generate positive change whilst continuing to grow our membership.

The Services Union is an essential part of the wider community! This means we must tell our stories and encourage workmates to become members. This way we can ensure that we continue to be a strong union into the future. Thank you to all our members and I look forward to working with you in 2023.

ABOVE FROM LEFT: SECRETARY NEIL HENDERSON, MINISTER FOR INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT, REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT CATHERINE KING MP AND BRANCH PRESIDENT KATE COTTER IN CANBERRA TO DISCUSS ISSUES AFFECTING MEMBERS WORKING IN THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT INDUSTRY.

SAFEGUARDING JOBS FOR OUR MEMBERS

BY JENNIFER THOMAS

WHEN IT COMES TO STRENGTHENING THE INDUSTRIES WHERE OUR MEMBERS WORK, SAFEGUARDING JOBS AND ENSURING SKILLS DEVELOPMENT FOR RETENTION, THE SERVICES UNION PRIDES ITSELF ON COLLABORATING RATIONALLY WITH STAKEHOLDERS TO ACHIEVE POSITIVE OUTCOMES.

Over the past six months, our Union has been busy behind the scenes working with the Palaszczuk and Albanese Governments, other unions, employers and peak industry bodies around changes and issues affecting the Local Government, Energy, Airlines and Social and Community Services (SACS) Industries.

In my role as a Board member of Jobs Queensland and as Executive President of our Union, I attended the launch of the Queensland Governments Workforce Strategy 2022-2032 – Good People, Good Jobs in late August. This is the first whole-of-government workforce strategy and is a 10-year plan to provide the strategic foundation for ongoing engagement with industry, business, community, and government stakeholders to develop a strong and skilled workforce, now and into the future. Our Union is a large part of any discussion around the changing economy and labour market. We’re also vocal about how best to retain our experienced existing workforces.

Jobs Queensland recognises that we all must embrace and adapt to how our industries are changing, and our Union agrees. Queensland is leading the nation in job creation and the Palaszczuk Government is committed to creating more jobs in the industries where our members work.

This commitment was apparent in September with Queensland Treasurer Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick MP announcing a $50 million funding boost to the SACS Industry by increasing the 2022-23 indexation rate for non-government organisations to 5.07 per cent. This investment will almost double the rise in value of contracts for critical support organisations, such as domestic and family violence and disability support services. Increasing the indexation rate will provide direct support to our hard-working members and allow workers to focus on providing the vital support their services deliver to communities.

This win for the SACS Industry is a prime example of our Union’s solutions focused approach achieved via consultation with the government, employers, our members, and the Queensland Council of Social Service. Working to address common interests, together with our members actively consulting with stakeholders, is always an effective strategy in achieving our Union’s goals. I am proud our Union is always a measured and reasonable voice at every consultative table.

ABOVE FROM LEFT: QLD SMALL BUSINESS COMMISSIONER MAREE ADSHEAD, EXECUTIVE PRESIDENT JENNIFER THOMAS AND MINISTER FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH JUSTICE AND MINISTER FOR MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS, LEANNE LINARD AT THE QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT WORKFORCE STRATEGY 2022-2032 – GOOD PEOPLE, GOOD JOBS LAUNCH IN AUGUST 2022.

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HELD ON THE 25 AUGUST 2022, OUR DELEGATES CONFERENCE WAS AN IMPORTANT DAY TO COME TOGETHER TO SHARE STORIES, SET AGENDAS, LISTEN TO CAMPAIGN AND INDUSTRIAL UPDATES, AND CELEBRATE THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF OUR TRAILBLAZING ACTIVISTS.

Starting with a Women’s Breakfast, which was opened by our Women’s Vice President and Deputy Branch President Ronnee Meachen, long time

member of The Services Union, workplace consultant and Director of WorkSafe, Kerriann Dear spoke about the important issue of Vicarious Trauma. She focused on ways we can support the wellbeing of Delegates and frontline staff who support people experiencing trauma, and the effects this exposure can have on them. Kerriann’s talk tied in with the We Won’t Wait campaign for paid Domestic and Family Violence Leave (DFVL) as well as the ongoing advocacy our Union does in regard to funding and supporting members in frontline services.

DELEGATES CONFERENCE

Our Union’s new President, Kate Cotter, gave her first official speech to open the Conference, followed by a wonderful Welcome to Country by the Nunukul Yuggera Aboriginal Dance Company. Secretary Neil Henderson and Executive President Jennifer Thomas spoke about our Union’s achievements over the past year with a focus on our Mental Health and Wellbeing in the Workplace campaign, industrial representation, Delegate training and development, and our Union’s plans for the future.

Federal Treasurer and Member for Rankin, Jim Chalmers MP addressed the delegation via video. The Treasurer talked about the economy including the need to expand our thinking around how we measure progress. He also focused on the need to ensure Australian workplaces have good mental health measures.

Development Coordinator Justine Moran discussed our Union’s strategies around Delegate pathways, recruitment and targets, and we heard the

stories from Delegates Michael Anderson, Faith Steele and Jasmine Spencer about their journeys. Keynote speaker, Workplace Psychologist and founder of Head Strong Workplaces, Sam Sellwood gave a presentation about occupational violence intervention solutions for workplaces which was very well received by Delegates. This was followed by the launch of our new Investigations Process presented by Industrial Coordinator Rebecca Girard and Industrial Officer Jessica Wiggan. Delegates provided feedback to what is now an integral workplace tool for them.

In the evening, we celebrated the achievements of our Delegates and also our Life Members: Former Branch President Lindy Henson, former Vice President for Local Government Marianne Ryan, Mark Roots, Michael Zabynec, David Stapleton, Des Jackson and former Vice President for Rail the late Tehanne Denham-Jarvis. Thank you to our loyal partners Brighter Super, QSuper, HESTA, Hall Payne Lawyers, Union Shopper, Member Advantage and QLeave who supported our Delegates Conference.

ABOVE AND LEFT: WORKPLACE DELEGATES PARTICIPATE AND ENJOY OUR WOMEN’S BREAKFAST AND AWARDS CEREMONY IN BRISBANE.

HELPING WORKMATES IS WHAT MOTIVATES OUR DELEGATE OF THE YEAR

HIGHLY RESPECTED IN HIS WORKPLACE AND A NATURAL UNION LEADER, MICHAEL ANDERSON FROM GYMPIE REGIONAL COUNCIL IS OUR 2022 DELEGATE OF THE YEAR.

Michael has worked at Gympie Regional Council for 12 years as a Safety Advisor. In his role, Michael provides advice on safety matters, systems documentation, and compliance to the legislation. He also conducts all serious workplace incident investigations and assists on environmental matters. Michael is also a Rehabilitation and a Return-to-Work Coordinator, a Fire Safety Advisor, and a Commissioner for Declarations where he assists workmates with document signing and statutory declarations. An impressive resume!

Actively recruiting new members for years, Michael is one of the key reasons our Union’s density has increased to over 50 per cent at Gympie Shire Council. Although he’s close to retiring, Michael makes it his mission to build union power and identify future Delegates as part of his succession plan. He is determined to leave Gympie Regional Council in a better place. Michael believes in having one-on-one conversations around important workplace issues and he always makes himself available to chat with colleagues. Being able to genuinely help a workmate who may feel powerless when they are going through an investigation is one

of the core factors that motivate Michael. He said winning this award is very humbling. “ I’m very proud, to be such a small cog,” he said. This is proof that The Services Union, as large and inclusive as it is, does see and acknowledge the little guy. I am passionate about union membership, and I get a buzz when that passion becomes infectious!”

Congratulations also to our amazing Delegate of the Year nominees: Peter Rasmussen, Carly Hanson and Jorge Salles (below let to right, with Branch President Kate Cotter).

ABOVE FROM LEFT: SECRETARY NEIL HENDERSON, LAURA HALL FROM ENERGY SUPER, DELEGATE OF THE YEAR MICHAEL ANDERSON AND BRANCH PRESIDENT KATE COTTER AT OUR RECENT AWARDS CEREMONY.

JENNA AND SARA-JANE - BRINGING NEW IDEAS TO THEIR DELEGATE ROLES

CONGRATULATIONS TO JENNA JONES AND SARA-JANE VOSS WHO HAVE BEEN RECOGNISED FOR THEIR MEMBER REPRESENTATION AND WORKPLACE ACTIVISM AT OUR RECENT DELEGATE OF THE YEAR AWARDS HELD IN BRISBANE.

Jenna won the Emerging Delegate of the Year Award which recognises the work of Delegates who are at the start of their member representative journey. Since 2020, Jenna has been outstanding in her role at Energy Queensland Limited, where she has bought fresh ideas to the role. From promoting and empowering women in her workplace, Jenna has also been instrumental in setting up a Workplace Organising Committee (WOC) and has built strong networks with other Workplace Delegates. She has actively recruited new members and supported them in relation to individual issues in the Customer Operations space. Congratulations also to nominees Sara Jane-Voss, Faith Steele and Kristen Granzien(pictured right with Branch President Kate Cotter).

Sara-Jane Voss has been awarded the Tehanne Denham-Jarvis Award which was established in memory of our former Vice President for Rail. This award recognises female Delegates in the Rail Industry. Sara-Jane has been active in the Beenleigh GSM group of stations at Queensland Rail due to the difficult rostering at her station at Loganlea. She actively

campaigned and won a better roster to provide an improved work life balance for employees. During her campaign, Sara-Jane also recruited members to The Services Union. Persistence, advocacy and being able to work well with management was the key to resolving this issue. SaraJane said be awarded the Tehanne Denham-Jarvis Award is an honour. “Especially when being the first person to receive the Award. It is a lovely sentiment to remember Tehanne and everything she stood for,” Sara-Jane said. “I hope to follow in the same footsteps.”

ABOVE FROM LEFT: THE INAUGURAL EMERGING DELEGATE OF THE YEAR AWARDEE JENNA JONES AND TEHANNE DENHAM-JARVIS AWARDEE SARA-JANE VOSS.

CAMPAIGNING FOR SAFE WORKPLACESIS ARI’S COMMITMENT

THE ANNA STEWART MEMORIAL PROJECT (THE PROJECT) WHICH HAS BEEN RUN THROUGH TRADES AND LABOR COUNCILS SINCE 1984, IS AN ANNUAL AFFIRMATIVE ACTION PROGRAM AIMED TO INCREASE MEMBER ACTIVISM IN THE UNION MOVEMENT.

It was established by the Municipal Officers’ Association (a forerunner union of the Australian Services Union) in memory of Anna Stewart, a trailblazing unionist who successfully began the first blue collar union campaign for Maternity Leave and also initiated campaigns against sexual harassment. This year, our Youth Vice President and Workplace Delegate, Ari Russell took part in the Queensland Unions programme describing it as a “... really eye-opening and rewarding experience.”

Ari said their first ever memory of being involved in the union movement was when they were young and supporting their mother on a picket line for eight weeks in their native Canada. Now, as a very active member of The Services Union, Ari said they are dedicated to supporting and representing union members at Brisbane City Council were they work in Libraries, especially around justice and health and safety issues.

This year, the Project ran from 18-22 July and Ari got the opportunity to spend time in our Union’s office working with our Member Benefits and Industrial teams. Ari said this gave them a first hand look at what happens

behind the scenes. “I really respect the work that they do for our members. It seems like really difficult work and they handle each case with such care,” Ari said.

As a queer trans non binary person Ari said they admittedly had some reservations about attending the Project. “I was worried about feeling excluded from the conversation,” they explained. “However, I was pleasantly surprised at the inclusion of trans issues at the Women’s Conference which was held during the week. There was an overall understanding that queer and trans workers experience violence in their workplaces as well. It was incredibly validating to attend a conference where this issue was not just understood, but where people were willing to agitate around it, and ultimately do something about it. I came away feeling very fired up!”

Ari said the biggest take away from the week was the roundtable discussions about the serious problem of workplace sexual harassment and assault. “Whether it’s white collar or blue-collar workplaces, it doesn’t matter; women, trans, and non binary workers are sick of being harassed.” Ari said. “This should not be happening because we all deserve to be safe at work. As a Delegate, I am committed to supporting my colleagues around these important safety and justice issues and making sure policies are in place, implemented and followed.”

ABOVE: THE SERVICES UNION’S VICE PRESIDENT FOR YOUTH AND WORKPLACE DELEGATE ARI RUSSELL IS COMMITTED TO SUPPORTING THEIR COLLEAGUES AROUND ENSURING WORKPLACE HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ARE IMPLEMENTED.

PORTS VP DEBBIE MCDONALDWALKING IN EMMA MILLER’S FOOTSTEPS

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR VICE PRESIDENT FOR THE PORTS INDUSTRY, DEBBIE MCDONALD WHO IS THE SERVICES UNION’S EMMA MILLER AWARDEE FOR 2022.

This very special award is in honour of Emma Miller who was a strong advocate for workers’ and women’s rights in Queensland. She contributed to the political and social changes which took place during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, notably campaigning for the first vote for women in a Federal Election in 1903.

Facilitated through The Queensland Council of Unions, the Emma Miller Awards are a tribute to the pioneering spirit of this woman and celebrate the achievements of contemporary union women. The Award is presented each year in her name to women who have made an outstanding contribution to their union at the grass roots level. Debbie is a most deserving winner and received her award in September 2022, at a ceremony in Brisbane.

Debbie has worked at North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation for over four decades, joining our Union after commencement. Becoming a Workplace Delegate in the early 1990’s, Debbie has been an active campaigner as well as an active member of the Branch Executive ever

since. She is also a long standing member of our Women’s Committee, a National Conference Delegate, is active in her local Queensland Unions Branch and always on hand to assist our Union office staff. Debbie is a very respected in her workplace by her colleagues and her employers, and she has been a constant at the bargaining table. She is most proud of retaining employment security and RDO’s for her workmates as well as being integral to ensuring the progression of women in her organisation.

Debbie feels that union membership and her role as a Workplace Delegate, has opened her eyes to the struggles many people face on a regular basis in their working life. “Whether it is being able to find secure work or working conditions that enable a good work/life balance, the struggles are real for many workers,” Debbie said. “Due to the collective bargaining power of our TSU members, I am fortunate to have had secure employment with good working conditions for over 42 years.”

At the ceremony, Debbie was presented with her award by one of Emma Miller’s grandsons Dr. Peter Reid, and her husband Lance was there to cheer her on. She said she feels honoured and proud. “To receive this award in recognition of that work is a huge honour. There have been many women all the way back to Emma Miller who have fought the good fight,” Debbie explained. “I feel privileged to walk in their footsteps.”

ABOVE: QUEENSLAND COUNCIL OF UNIONS (QCU) WOMEN’S OFFICER PENNY SPALDING, DR. PETER REID, VP FOR PORTS AND AWARDEE DEBBIE MCDONALD, BRANCH PRESIDENT KATE COTTER, SECRETARY NEIL HENDERSON AND QTU GENERAL SECRETARY AND QCU PRESIDENT KATE RUTTIMAN AT THE EMMA MILLER AWARD PRESENTATIONS IN BRISBANE.

ASU NATIONAL CONFERENCE - SETTING AGENDAS AND CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENTS

DELEGATES AND OFFICIALS FROM ACROSS THE NATION CAME TOGETHER FOR THE AUSTRALIAN SERVICES UNION (ASU) NATIONAL CONFERENCE HELD AT TWEED HEADS ON 9-11 NOVEMBER.

After a Welcome to Country from Uncle Jack Graham, ASU members voted enthusiastically to commit to support enshrining the First Nations Voice to Parliament and the constitutional reforms presented in The Uluru Statement from the Heart. Wayne Wood, WA Branch Secretary

from Worroro Country and our SACS Vice President Karina Maxwell from Quandamooka Country moved the motion to endorse the campaign at a national level.

Over two days, Delegates listened to campaign updates and conferenced around topics such as the future of work in the age of artificial intelligence, the new Industrial Relations Bill and Superannuation. Retired Australian soccer player and human rights activist Craig Foster AM gave a keynote address which focused on

his work as a refugee advocate and his new role as the National Chair of the Australian Republic Movement. It was also a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Delegate of the Year nominees from each state as well as the new ASU National Life members which included former Branch President of The Services Union (TSU) Lindy Henson and former ASU official and consultant at Hall Payne Lawyers, John Payne. Former TSU and National Secretary David Smith, was awarded ASU Life Membership posthumously with his wife Alana attending the ceremony.

EXECUTIVE PRESIDENT JENNIFER THOMAS PRESENTS DAVID SMITH’S ASU LIFE MEMBERSHIP TO HIS WIFE ALANA AT THE CEREMONY.

MEMBERS OF

FROM

TSU BRANCH COUNCIL MEMBERS AT THE ASU NATIONAL CONFERENCE IN NOVEMBER.

BY THE SIDE OF OUR MEMBERS WORKING IN THE ENERGY INDUSTRY

THE ENERGY INDUSTRY HAS BEEN FRONT AND CENTRE IN THE MEDIA IN 2022 AND THIS IS UNLIKELY TO CHANGE FOR THE NEXT SEVERAL YEARS.

There is much in store for our members starting with the announcement of the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan by the Palaszczuk Government in late September 2022 and the $62 billion expenditure that the Plan foreshadows.

Members employed in the coal fired power generation sector face the most initial change, but will do so with a job guarantee in place under the Queensland Energy Workers’ Charter. The Charter, which was drawn up by a Committee established by the Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen and Minister for Public Works and Procurement Mick De Brenni MP and which included The Services Union, is a first in Australia.

The Charter provides the key over arching transition principles for employees in the industry who will be affected and our Union was a strong voice for our members during this process. No other Energy Industry employee in the country has had the benefit of such a comprehensive charter before any changes have occurred. Members will be in the

driving seat of these negotiations over the next several years as the Plan works through the various phases. Additionally, there will be significant assistance provided to members to ensure that they are in the best possible position to decide what they want for their future either in the power industry or elsewhere. The various Enterprise Agreements in place will continue to operate and will be renegotiated as they fall which is also good news.

Callide Power Station will be among the first to be transformed into an Energy Hub. Much is being done to ensure our members will have all of the information and assistance they need to enable them to choose their most suitable path in the transformation. Our Union will be working closely with CS Energy and Minister De Brenni to ensure that all avenues toward redeployment, retraining, ongoing employment or assistance are easily accessed. To get the ball rolling, our Union convened a discussion with Energy Industry workers about the Plan in Biloela in November. Minister De Brenni and CEO of CS Energy Andrew Bills discussed the Plan with our Executive President Jennifer Thomas and CEO of Energy Skills Queensland speaking about future job pathways. Our Union is a driving force around the implementation of the Plan and we will always be by the side of individual members affected.

ABOVE: ENERGY INDUSTRY MEMBERS ATTEND A FORUM IN BILOELA WITH MINISTER FOR ENERGY, RENEWABLES AND HYDROGEN AND MINISTER FOR PUBLIC WORKS AND PROCUREMENT MICK DE BRENNI MP WHERE THEY DISCUSSED THE QUEENSLAND ENERGY AND JOBS PLAN.

MINISTER FOR ENERGY, RENEWABLES AND HYDROGEN AND MINISTER FOR PUBLIC WORKS AND PROCUREMENT MICK DE BRENNI MP DISCUSSES THE NEW ENERGY PLAN WITH ENERGY MEMBERS AT BILOELA.

ENERGY WORKPLACE DELEGATE MICHAEL BANKS AND ORGANISER CHRIS MCJANNETT.

EXECUTIVE PRESIDENT JENNIFER THOMAS TALKS ABOUT FUTURE JOB PATHWAYS.

MEMBER TONY HAYNES AND DELEGATES GREG ROBERTS AND PAUL ALVEY.

DELEGATE MARK ROWLES AND EXECUTIVE PRESIDENT JENNIFER THOMAS.

MINISTER FOR ENERGY, RENEWABLES AND HYDROGEN AND MINISTER FOR PUBLIC WORKS AND PROCUREMENT MICK DE BRENNI MP AND WORKPLACE DELEGATES JASMIN MUNROE, MARK ROWLES AND TROY LONSDALE.

SECRETARY NEIL HENDERSON SIGNS THE QUEENSLAND ENERGY WORKERS CHARTER.

CEO OF CS ENERGY ANDREW BILLS ADDRESSES MEMBERS.

UNION SETS PAY PACE IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT NEGOTIATIONS

WITH THE END OF 2022 APPROACHING, ONE THING WE KNOW FOR SURE IS, PAY INCREASES IN THE 2% - 3% RANGE ARE VERY MUCH A THING OF THE PAST.

The Services Union negotiates salary increases in real time! This means as well as ensuring members get a return on the productivity they have delivered to Council and community, we always have one eye on helping our members manage the cost of living. The resolve of Workplace Delegates and rank-and-file members has been indispensable in setting this pace.

Following the lead set by Ipswich City Council members earlier in the year, members at Gympie Regional Council voted in support of protected action in July and have since participated in several stop-work rallies in pursuit of an appropriate pay deal, despite punitive and disproportionate management retaliation in the form of lockouts.

Members at Redland City Council also walked off the job in record numbers in support of fair pay with close to 100 members rallying the public square next to Cleveland Library in September. Congratulations to Workplace Delegates Rob Edwards, Chris Nash, Lisa Bailey and Fred Linardon for ensuring solid turnout from all work areas (despite the

Council locking members out of the workplace for the remainder of the day). Thanks to Member for Redlands Kim Richards MP for addressing the rally. Since taking this action, members improved the offer from Council through a Conciliation with the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission (QIRC) which proves it pays to be a member of our Union.

Whitsunday Regional Council members have locked away a 4% increase backdated to February 2022, following the employer seeking assistance from the QIRC to resolve negotiations. Our Union successfully stared down Cook Shire Council to deliver a 4.775% uplift based on the average CPI increase over the preceding four quarters. Well done to Workplace Delegates Tim Ryle (for laying the groundwork for the dispute) and Kylie Snaith for attending the QIRC hearing. Members at Southern Downs Regional Council have also returned a strong vote in favour of action, but are now participating in Conciliation proceedings in the QIRC.

Some employers are proactively seeking shorter agreements to ride out the current economic circumstances. Members are happy to consider appropriate options such as the 4% plus $500 at City of Gold Coast Council and an administrative increase of $2000 on the base rate of pay

ABOVE: MEMBERS AT REDLANDS CITY COUNCIL RALLY FOR A FAIR AND JUST EBA ALONGSIDE MEMBERS FOR RICHLANDS KIM RICHARDS MP AND SECRETARY NEIL HENDERSON.

plus 4% like seen at Brisbane City Council. While the 5% + 2.5% over two years Urban Utilities Laboratories may seem appropriate, it needs to be considered in the context of members not receiving a proper increase in four years. All Local Authorities and associated entities should consider themselves on notice that our Workplace Delegates and members are acutely aware of what does and doesn’t constitute an appropriate pay offer!

STRENGTHENING LOCAL GOVERNMENT CAMPAIGN

We know that a highly skilled, qualified, professional, and sustainable workforce is essential to delivering high quality services to support our communities. Local Government members are working together in particular to improve pay and conditions, job security, mental health and wellbeing and, work life balance.

Since launching our campaign earlier in 2022, we have seen significant growth in membership, fantastic visibility for our Union and solid outcomes ranging from mental health and wellbeing clauses in Agreements

committing Councils to working with us, better wage outcomes, improved consultation provisions and better access to flexible working arrangements to name just a few. Whether these outcomes have come through successfully negotiating new Agreements, through Consultative Committees or through individual grievances, our Union is kicking goals everywhere. This campaign is here to stay, with 2023 looking like it will be an even bigger year for members in Local Authorities as we look to deal further with cost-of-living pressures.

IT’S BEEN A HUGE YEAR FOR OUR UNION WITH THE STRENGTHENING LOCAL GOVERNMENT CAMPAIGN TAKING CENTRE STAGE.

MEMBERS AT IPSWICH CITY COUNCIL CAMPAIGNING FOR IMPROVED PAY AND CONDITIONS, JOBSECURITY AND MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING POLICIES AS PARTOF OUR STRENGTHENING LOCAL GOVERNMENT CAMPAIGN.

MEMBERS AT ROCKHAMPTON REGIONAL COUNCIL CAMPAIGN TO STRENGTHEN THEIR INDUSTRY.

STRENGTHENING AND RESTORING RESPECT IN THE SACS INDUSTRY

IN SEPTEMBER, 37 MEMBERS FROM THE AUSTRALIAN SERVICES UNION (ASU) WORKING IN COMMUNITY AND DISABILITY SERVICES FROM ACROSS AUSTRALIA CAMPAIGNED OVER TWO DAYS AT PARLIAMENT HOUSE IN CANBERRA FOR ONE REASON: TO RESTORE RESPECT TO THE SECTOR.

Industry workers met with Members of Parliament (MPs) and Senators to gain support for introducing longer term funding cycles and six-year funding contracts as well as ensuring fair wages across services. They also campaigned to end gag clauses and ensure essential services are not run for profit. This visit was also part of our branch’s Strengthening Social and Community Services Industry campaign, which we continue to roll out.

On the agenda was a focus on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Workplace Delegate for The Services Union Shelly Butcher, Secretary Neil Henderson and Development Coordinator Justine Moran met with Minister for the NDIS and Minister for Government Services Bill Shorten MP along with Queensland MPs and Senators to discuss the risks associated with not supporting workers over the coming years to meet with demand. It’s essential NDIS pricing supports better jobs, making sure

all workers delivering support are covered by the SCHADS Award, and have access to Equal Pay rates. Creating portable entitlements for all NDIS workers and ensuring they don’t lose their accrued entitlements as they move between employers was another of our asks. We also know that creating portable training entitlements for workers for ongoing accredited training to build careers and specialisations, is paramount. Workers won’t stay in the sector if they can’t have a secure job or see a future for themselves - that’s why members are keeping the pressure up to restore respect in the community sector and make the NDIS the best it can be.

Finally, after a decade long campaign instigated by the ASU, Paid Family and Domestic Violence Leave (DVFL) is now law. The Fair Work Amendment (Paid Family and Domestic Violence Leave) Bill 2022 was passed in October meaning 10 days of paid DVFL is now included in the National Employment Standards for all full-time, part-time and casual employees. The Queensland Government also amended its Industrial Relations Act to include paid DFVL for all casual employees from 28 October 2022. Thank you to our members working in frontline DFV services who been at the frontline of this campaign and to all members who took action. Together, we won!

ABOVE FROM LEFT: AUSTRALIAN SERVICES UNION NATIONAL SECRETARY ROBERT POTTER, DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR FOR THE SERVICES UNION JUSTINE MORAN, MEMBER FOR BLAIR AND MEMBER OF THE SERVICES UNION SHAYNE NEUMANN AND WORKPLACE DELEGATE SHELLY BUTCHER IN CANBERRA.

GETTING NEGOTIATIONS ON TRACK FOR MEMBERS IN THE RAIL INDUSTRY

MEMBERS AT QUEENSLAND RAIL (QR) ARE PREPARING TO NEGOTIATE FOR THEIR NEW ENTERPRISE BARGAINING AGREEMENT (EBA) WHICH THEY HOPE WILL PROVIDE SUITABLE PAY INCREASES TO MEET THE RISING COST OF LIVING.

We had a huge response to the member EBA survey which was recently sent to members and the feedback is currently being used to collate a draft Log of Claims. The Services Union knows that members consistently have concerns around roster gaps and instability, and workload. Our Union will address these issues thoroughly once negotiations begin. The Train Control Workload and Work Value review has also commenced, and this will be a valuable measure of the safe movement of trains across the network. QR members work hard each every day to deliver an efficient public train network and they deserve a fair EBA.

The Cross River Rail Project is meeting significant milestones. QR Chief Executive Officer Kat Stapleton, has agreed to release a Workplace Delegate from our Union to participate in consultation which will increase as the Project progresses. A project this size only comes along once in a generation and it’s important our Union supports it to achieve the best outcomes for our members and the broader community.

AURIZON - Members at Aurizon have started their Enterprise Agreement EA) re-negotiations our Workplace Delegate Stephen Peacock again leading the way. Members have finalised their Log of Claims alongside other unions and these now have been presented to management for consideration. Unions and management have been meeting weekly, alternating between Brisbane and Rockhampton, which will continue until the end of January 2023.

Stephen said the most important outcome for workers at Aurizon would be a healthy pay-rise that keeps up with the Queensland Consumer Price Index. “Everybody has seen their spending-power reduced significantly over the last couple of years while home-loan interest rates have risen seven months in a row. Aurizon workers, just like everyone else are starting to feel some pain in their hip pocket and they are overdue for a pay-rise,” Stephen explained. “For example, Network Controllers haven’t had a pay-rise since 2018 and have seen their shift-allowances reduced every year since 2019.”

Members have also indicated they’d like to see some flexibility around leave provisions. “This is to allow the conversion of leave loading to annual leave and the ability to purchase extra annual leave each year, Stephen said. “Our Union takes representation very seriously so respecting the wishes of our members is our top priority.”

ABOVE: WORKPLACE DELEGATES FROM QUEENSLAND RAIL REPRESENT THEIR COLLEAGUES EACH AND EVERY DAY AROUND ISSUES SUCH AS ROSTER GAPS AND WORKLOADS. THEY ARE ALL COMMITTED TO STRENGTHENING QUEENSLAND RAIL AND GETTING THE BEST ENTERPRISE BARGAINING AGREEMENT FOR MEMBERS.

MEMBERS VOTE NO TO APPLE’S ROTTEN DRAFT AGREEMENT!

Management at Apple has been left shocked after members across Australia rejected their employer’s rotten to the core draft Enterprise Bargaining Agreement (EBA) recently.

Apple management underestimated their employees, thinking they could ram through a subpar EBA without listening listen to its workers, or delivering on key claims.

The draft EBA was put up by Apple management without endorsement from the Australian Services Union (ASU) and was voted down, due to the collective power of our members, bargaining skills, and some spectacular Vote-No campaigning!

ASU members are clear about what Apple needs to do: listen to workers and have constructive discussion on items that members care about including:

• Wage rises guaranteed for every worker;

• Fair rostering for work life balance

• Classifications that reflect workers’ skills and experience; and

• Gender transition leave – reflecting the progressive workforce at Apple.

Apple is now being unionised for the first time ever in Australia. Voting down the draft EBA is a great first step but won’t guarantee a better deal. What

PORTS INDUSTRY

Apple workers need to do now, is join The Services Union and be part of the next phase of negotiating a better deal. Nationally, the ASU will be holding regular zoom member-only meetings for bargaining updates for members to make decisions.

Time to get back to the table

The ASU has now asked Apple management to come back to the bargaining table in the coming weeks in order to have genuine discussions about improving our members’ pay and conditions. We will keep members up to date with any developments. Stay tuned also for more information about when the next full member Zoom meeting will take place.

SLOW GOING AT QANTAS

THE ASU NATIONAL NEGOTIATING TEAM CONTINUES TO MEET WITH QANTAS, NEGOTIATING A NEW ENTERPRISE AGREEMENT (EA).

Our Union has been pushing for fairer rostering arrangements which give members predictability and certainty. The negotiations are progressing slowly but there has been some progress. Qantas has agreed to return to holding local roster committees and sharing the master roster with union representatives. The detail still needs to be worked through, including Qantas committing to a time frame for this, as members have lived through unpredictable and ever-changing rosters for 2.5 years and they deserve certainty. The airline has also agreed in principle to our Union’s proposal to get more hours rostered for part time workers Disappointingly, Qantas has still not (yet) budged on number of ASU claims which would improve your work/ life balance such as rosters being published six weeks in advance as well as no forward-facing rosters.

Our Union has explained to management how important job security is and we have asked Qantas to commit to employing their workers directly, giving as many hours as possible to their own staff (and not labour hire) and committing to no compulsory redundancies. It’s been an incredibly difficult few years for members and the absolute least Qantas can do is repay their hard work and loyalty. Qantas has agreed to consider our claim.

Finally, Qantas’ parental leave provisions are stuck in the dark ages. It’s time for Qantas to step up and improve the parental leave workers are entitled to. Our Union has made a claim for 26 weeks paid parental leave for new parents, and for superannuation to be paid on all parental leave. It’s time Qantas caught up!

VALE TERRY SMITH

The next Enterprise Agreement for the our members at North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) can now be finalised. The EA was endorsed by the employer and members some time ago, but has been held up by the reconsideration of the Government Owned Corporations (GOC) Wages Policy. The Policy has now been reissued and members at NQBP will be enjoying the reward of their new agreement soon if not before Christmas. The new GOC policy also involves a significant change to superannuation arrangements with the Queensland Government committing to 12.75 per cent employer contributions and relaxing the requirement for compulsory employee co-contributions.

YOUTH COMMITTEE

CLIMATE CHANGE, JOB SECURITY AND DIRECT ACTION

BY IMOGEN SMITH - YOUTH COMMITTEE COORDINATOR

AN INTERACTIVE AND FAST PACED YOUNG WORKERS CONFERENCE WAS HELD IN BRISBANE IN APRIL WHICH FOCUSED ON ISSUES SUCH AS JOB SECURITY, CLIMATE CHANGE AND DIRECT ACTION.

The Services Union – in collaboration with Queensland Unions and other affiliate unions – organised the Conference bringing together close to 100 young activists, including 20 from our Union. Speakers included Lead Organiser of APHEDA – Union Aid Abroad, Lachlan Batchelor who challenged young unionists to see themselves as part of a global movement and highlighted APHEDA’s wins abroad such as the Ban Asbestos campaign, gender equality in Vietnamese politics, and the impact of climate change on vulnerable workers in Nepal.

Our very own Vice President for Youth Ari Russell

and member Emily Kain spoke passionately about the need for young unionists to lead the way by organising communities around issues that matter such as workers rights and climate change. The conference was held just weeks after the Brisbane floods (with a last minute venue change as a result) and their inspirational stories of community organising in the environment movement were particularly pertinent to conference attendees.

Member Jamie Bell travelled from the Gold Coast to attend the Conference which was a first for her. “ I am a pretty new union member, so I definitely had some trepidation.” Jamie explained. “There was representation from so many young people who spoke about their union participation and it was really interesting to listen to their stories. Any scared feelings I had disappeared as the day was very inspiring.”

The delegation also showed their solidarity by rallying at South Bank alongside hundreds of hospitality workers in their campaign against their unfair treatment and stolen wages at the hands of Mantle Group’s zombie agreement.

The day was complete with pizzas, drinks at a local bar, and a rousing speech from the General Secretary of Queensland Unions, Michael Clifford who reminded us that the future of the movement is in our hands. There was also $300 raised via the Conference raffle to support the Inala Youth Service!

The day was a huge success and we can’t wait to do it again on Saturday, 1 April 2023. If you would like to know more about our Youth Committee or attend the 2023 Conference please get in touch via email at: youth@theservicesunion.com.au

ABOVE: YOUTH DELEGATES AT THE QUEENSLAND UNIONS AT THE YOUNG WORKERS CONFERENCE IN BRISBANE.

UNION BUSINESS - SAFE, EQUAL AND INCLUSIVE WORKPLACES

BY DARCI WANAMAKER - PRIDE COMMITTEE COORDINATOR

EQUALITY IS UNION BUSINESS AND WE ARE PROUD OF OUR PRIDE COMMITTEE WHO HAS BEEN VERY ACTIVE IN ADVOCATING FOR LGBTQ+ WORKERS AND THE WIDER COMMUNITY.

In the second half of this year, The Services Union was an active member of the Queensland Unions’ Union Pride Committee which advocates to ensure all workers in the state have safe, equal and inclusive workplaces.

Some of our Pride Committee’s achievements this year include but aren’t limited to:

• Real voices heard in the review of the Anti-Discrimination Act;

• Creating Union Awards to encourage and recognise Unions for their effectiveness in supporting LGBTQ+ and gender diverse members;

• Drafting model clauses to build inclusive workplaces, such as gender affirmation leave;

• Campaigning against bigoted legislation proposed by the LNP;

• Creating better networks to elevate regional LGBTQ+ and gender diverse members’ voices;

• Celebratory Wear It Purple Day morning tea to show support of LGBTQ+ and gender diverse young workers and youth;

• Labour Day Pride photo with Sally McManus;

• Connecting with other Unions across Queensland to share resources and support all LGBTQ+ and gender diverse workers;

• Meeting with our other ASU branches to discuss what works well, what we’ve been doing in our Pride committees state-bystate and determine how we can work

better together in the future;

• Hosting a Services Union stall at the firstever Gladstone Pride Festival; and

• Celebrating a wonderfully successful Brisbane Pride festival!

At Brisbane Pride, we worked alongside our Queensland Unions’ Union Pride committee to hold a Union Pride stall. We met up with all sorts of workers and members of different Unions, provided resources and education to workers, and got to show off our beautiful new Union Pride shirts - which we’ll have more of soon, so get in touch with Pride Coordinator Darci Wanamaker at: darci.wanamaker@theservicesunion.com.au if you’re keen for a shirt of your own!

The Services Union is proud to be by your side to help you build safe, equal and inclusive workplaces.

ABOVE: MEMBERS OF THE QUEENSLAND UNIONS PRIDE COMMITTEE AT BRISBANE PRIDE WHERE THEY HELD A SOLIDARITY UNION STALL. MEMBERS OF OUR UNION’S PRIDE COMMITTEE MET UP WITH A DIVERSITY OF WORKERS ON THE DAY, EXPLAINING TO THEM THE VALUE OF UNION MEMBERSHIP.

WORKPLACE DELEGATES TRAINING

WORKPLACE DELEGATE TRAINING TAKING THE NEXT STEPS

OVER 150 WORKPLACE DELEGATES, ACROSS ALL THE INDUSTRIES THE SERVICES UNION COVERS, HAVE PARTICIPATED IN ONE OR MORE COURSES WE OFFERED IN OUR REVAMPED TRAINING PROGRAM IN 2022.

There was something for everyone this year from Core Skills Training for new Workplace Delegates, to representation, bargaining and political lobbying courses, as well as learning opportunities focused on building union power through industrial instruments and union communications. We also ran sessions for members who are interested in getting more active around Occupational Health and safety issues at work.

As part of our commitment to the We Won’t Wait campaign we ran two in depth sessions focused on Domestic and Family Violence which included ways to implement entitlements, policies and guidelines and appropriate safety planning in workplaces.

Using online platforms like Zoom and Teams enabled us to respond to the needs of our Workplace Delegates in regional areas whilst the provision of shorter modules meant those who had time constraints could still participate. The great news is, of the 86 new Workplace Delegates who have attended Core Skills training, 65 per cent have recruited a new member to our Union and 70 per cent have supported

and/or represented a member at work.

If you’ve participated in training this year, please tell us what we’ve done well or what we could do differently by filling out this survey https:// www.surveymonkey.com/r/TSU_del_eval

In 2023, we aim to build on this work by doing more outreach into workplaces to support delegates with applying the skills they’ve learned in training. Our program for 2023 can be found on our website at: www.theservicesunion.com.au. If you’d like to get in early and register your interest, please email training@theservicesunion.com.au we would love to see you next year.

ABOVE: WORKPLACE DELEGATES TAKING THE NEXT STEPS IN THEIR ACTIVIST JOURNEYS AT THE CORE SKILLS COURSE IN ROCKHAMPTON, WITH SECRETARY NEIL HENDERSON. BELOW: LEARNING NEW SKILLS TO HELP THEIR MEMBER COLLEAGUES IN THEIR WORKPLACES, DELEGATES IN BRISBANE ATTEND THE CORE SKILLS TRAINING, WITH TSU TRAINER, JIM OLIVER.

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Only ASU members get access to free and interactive professional development webinars, as well as a huge range of courses available on-demand.

Our courses are designed to help you take the next step in your career with presenters who are experts in their field. The Australian Services Union is by your side, throughout your working life!

Over 100 free courses are available online today – exclusively for ASU members!

Find a course today asucareerlaunchpad.org.au

FROM BACK: INDUSTRIAL OFFICER DAVIS MURPHY, INDUSTRIAL OFFICER JOSH MAGUIRE, SECRETARY NEIL HENDERSON, INDUSTRIAL OFFICER JESSICA WIGGAN, INDUSTRIAL OFFICER AARON ALEXANDER, INDUSTRIAL COORDINATOR REBECCA GIRARD AND SENIOR INDUSTRIAL OFFICER MERINDA FOSTER, ARE ALWAYS BY THE SIDE OF MEMBERS OF THE SERVICES UNION WHEN THEY NEED INDUSTRIAL ASSISTANCE AND REPRESENTATION THROUGH SERVICES CONNECT.

WORKPLACE INVESTIGATIONSWHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

BY REBECCA GIRARD - INDUSTRIAL COORDINATOR

The Services Union knows that being required to participate in a workplace investigation can be a stressful experience. Often, employees are left with little information or understanding about the process and this can have a detrimental effect on mental health and well-being; that’s why we are always by your side.

Employers have an obligation to provide their employees with a safe working environment. This includes ensuring a positive workplace culture which considers the physical and mental well-being of employees. Having a clear investigation process which appropriately investigates workplace complaints will assist in sustaining a positive workplace culture. It is essential that workplace investigations are conducted in a procedurally fair way.

When is an investigation needed? A workplace investigation is a process undertaken in response to a concern/s within the workplace. It may be established to investigate a specific complaint raised by an employee or may be initiated following an employer’s concern about broader workplace issues. Workplace investigations are commonly conducted in response to complaints or concerns about one or more of the following matters such as: Performance; Workplace conduct, including discrimination, bullying and harassment; Serious misconduct, including theft, fraud or violence; and Health and Safety.

Some factors in considering whether to investigate include:

•Whether sufficient information is available to inform the decisionmaker;

•Whether the complaint is trivial or relevant to the workplace;

•The seriousness and sensitivity of the complaint;

•Whether the complainant has provided sufficient information to demonstrate what is alleged;

•Whether the nature of the complaint, if proven, would constitute a breach of the law or employer’s policies; and

•Applicable legislation that may apply.

As a matter of procedural fairness, an employer must ensure that an investigation process is undertaken as soon as possible after the incident/complaint is reported to ensure the mental and physical wellbeing of participants. All relevant parties should be regularly informed about the status of the investigation

Employers’ Obligations - During an investigation it is important that all parties maintain confidentiality. Information should only be provided to employees who are required to be part of the investigation and on a need to know basis.

Employee Obligations - It is important employees maintain professionalism throughout the process. Employees are also required to attend and participate in meetings and respond to communication from their employer. This includes employees who are suspended and not physically in the workplace. In some instances, an employee may be unable to participate in an investigation process on medical grounds. It is important that members seek advice from Services Connect if this applies to them.

An employer has an obligation to undertake a procedurally fair investigation. This includes ensuring employees have:

•Been provided sufficient and relevant information and time to understand the allegations and respond;

•Been provided an opportunity to bring a support person/representative to any meetings;

•Been made aware of how the process will be conducted;

•Have the investigation conducted by an impartial party;

•Have their response thoroughly considered prior to a decision being made;

•Been kept informed about the progress of the investigation; and •The decision clearly communicated to them.

Employee Response - A good response is important and gives you the greatest chance of avoiding a disciplinary outcome. Further information about how to respond can be found on our website under the Member Resources section at www.theservicesunion.com.au.

Delegate Support - Members have access to support at all stages of an investigation process. This may include delegate attendance at investigation meetings, assistance with drafting a response and referring members to Services Connect for Industrial advice. It is important that delegates contact the Delegate Hotline – 3010 4444 for advice about any workplace investigation as soon as possible as you will be supported throughout the entire process.

Any outcome from an investigation process should be formalised and provided to the employee in writing. Upon receipt of the final outcome Services Connect will be able to assist with determining any further action that may be required.

To ensure a fair investigation process is undertaken, employers should provide clear processes within enterprise agreements. Our Union is seeking the inclusion of a model investigations clause in all future enterprise agreements.

SOCIAL WORKERS MARNEE REVILL AND KARINA MAXWELL FROM THE THE WORKERS’ PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT SERVICE PROVIDE SUPPORT TO UNION MEMBERS TO GET THROUGH DIFFICULT TIMES.

HELP IS JUST A PHONE CALL AWAY

BY KARINA MAXWELLSENIOR SOCIAL WORKER WORKERS’ PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT SERVICE

The Workers’ Psychological Support Service is here to support workers who are going through a psychological injury due to the workplace.

This service has been running since February 2019 and has now expanded! It started off with myself- Karina Maxwell as the sole Social Worker, (Union Delegate for The Services Union, SACS Industry Committee member and Executive member) and now has a second social worker, Marnee Revill who is also heavily involved with TSU and a member.

Our service is here to support Queensland workers state-wide who are going through either a primary psychological injury or secondary psychological injury (where the primary injury is physical) and we can provide advice and links to community supports such as counselling (usually within two weeks), information about housing (although limited), financial support (also limited), workers compensation processes and anything else that is needed to get through a difficult time.

Workers do not need to be in the workers compensation system to access this service. We can even provide advice/links for people who are caring or concerned about someone with a workplace psychological injury.

There is no wrong door to our service. If you are unsure if we can help, please contact us and ask. The service is Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.

With having run this service for over three and a half years, we have gathered a lot of information and built on our community services directory to ensure we provide extensive advice to workers. This service is:

• Confidential- with the only times this confidentiality is broken is if we are concerned that a worker will harm themselves or others;

• Independent – it is not part of WorkCover, we don’t talk to employers etc; and

• Most importantly the service is free! This is because the service is Government funded.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST A PSYCHOLOGICAL INJURY IN THE WORKPLACE.

Obviously not all psychological injuries can be prevented but there are quite a few that can be.

SELF-CARE - If you are working in an industry where you are exposed to stressful and challenging situations, it is important to regularly look after yourself and take time-out from your job. Outside of work, this could be going to regular events such as trivia nights, or karaoke. Spending

time with family and friends, doing jigsaw puzzles, getting in touch with nature, like going for walks, or spending time at the beach, or camping. Other options might be singing and dancing to music (on your own or with others). The type of self-care is as unique as each human being is, it is about finding what fits right for the individual.

BOUNDARIES. Having strong boundaries is important. Most of us are dedicated and passionate about our jobs. But it is important to take time out from work. Leave work at work … if you can … of course at times there are exceptions to this rule, but if most of the time, we can switch off from work its wonderful!

DOCUMENT AND BACKUP. If things are going wrong, or you feel you are being treated unfairly or bullied. The best bet is to document this in detail. Either straight away, or soon after the incident happens when you feel you are able to. Even if you don’t do anything further with this, sometimes it can be a great therapeutic process to write it all down. Please make sure your notes are secure and no-one else has access to these. And contact the Union for any advice regarding industrial support in this area.

TALK TO YOUR SUPPORT PEOPLE . If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, talk to those who love you the most. Like your partner, family and/or friends. Don’t feel you are burdening them, you would want them to talk to you when stressed, therefore talk to them if you are feeling stressed.

PUT YOURSELF AS A NUMBER ONE PRIORITY. When you are feeling vulnerable, and overwhelmed, the most important thing is to put your wellbeing as the number one priority. Keep checking in on yourself.

Most importantly, if you are unable to minimize the impact on your mental wellbeing, call the Union. That is what they are there for. I have had my own past experiences of psychological injury and cannot praise The Services Union enough for their support towards me at a very difficult time.

Most importantly … feel free to contact this service and talk to myself or Marnee. For yourself, or if you are worried about someone else, by all means pass on our details. We are here to help. We can provide links to counsellors/psychologists and other services as well as advice, or just a sympathetic ear. Stay safe and take care.

Workers’ Psychological Support Service. Phone: 1800 370 732. Mobile: 0438 065 130. Email: info@wpss.org.au Website: www.wpss.org.au

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