The union operates essentially by way of committees, which allow members to participate in the decision-making process and other affairs of the union. 

The Council and the Executive are both committees, one of 29 the other of 9, and below is a summary of the other committees which are such an integral part of the PSA/CPSU. 

Biennial Conference: This meets every second year and consists of the Association Officers, worksite representatives, committee members and members of Council. Conference discusses and considers major issues - the 2007 Conference focussed on the WorkChoices legislation with key speakers including Sharan Burrow, ACTU President and Senator Penny Wong.

Regional Worksite Representative Committees: These are for Worksite Reps in country regions to allow a regular forum for interchange of information between the union and regional members. 

Industrial Committees: These are standing (permanent) committees and are formed by Councillors, Worksite Representatives and ordinary members, representing a particular industrial group or professional calling. 

Agency Committees: These are standing committees and consist of the Worksite Representatives in the one work area, e.g. Housing SA. 

Dispute Committees: These are ad hoc committees and are only held to assist in organising particular disputes. They constitute Worksite Representatives and Councillors in the area(s) involved. 

Council Committees: These are standing committees on particular areas. Some operate jointly with the Public Sector Union (PSU) Group. Current committees include:

• Worker Safety
• Legal Services
• Fostered Activities
• Wages