The Public Service Association (PSA) has received a draft copy of the proposed organisation chart reflecting the Department of Health Mental Health Unit and the existing organisational chart together with a copy of the Department of Health's procedural guidelines.

The Department's main objective is to finalise and implement that new structure as soon as possible in order to drive fundamental operational and policy change within Mental Health. The Department will make every effort to finalise structures as quickly as possible to minimise any further disruption and uncertainty. The Director of Mental Health, Derek Wright, Deputy Director Mark Leggett, together with a Workforce Services representative and Mental Health staff will implement the new structure in accordance with the agreed human resource principles and guidelines including:

New job and person specifications will be developed for all positions including determination of classification.

Determine whether 80/20 rule applies by assigning the incumbent directly to the position.

Should the 80/20 rule not apply, then advertise within Health.

Should no appointment be made, then advertise the position across the public sector.

As a key stakeholder, the PSA will be consulted throughout the process.

PSA WORKSITE REPRESENTATIVES

Worksite Representatives are required in the Mental Health Unit, Department of Health. PSA Worksite Representatives fulfil a vital role. They can be the first point of contact with the PSA by members. Worksite Representatives can raise issues of concern directly with management on behalf of members, work with PSA staff on important issues, represent members on various workplace committees and forums.

Please consider nominating yourself or a work colleague to ensure your worksite has an effective voice during the Mental Health Unit restructure process.

PSA members can utilise 10 days Trade Union Training Leave (per two years) to attend Worksite Representative Training. A Worksite Representative Application form is available here.

For enquiries contact PSA Industrial Officer Dolly Costello on dlc@cpsu.asn.au or 8205 3244.

PSA WORKING FOR MEMBERS IN HEALTH

14 December 2007