The Public Service Association (PSA) has written to the Department of Health on behalf of members who are Dental Therapists and Dental Hygienists. Discussions have been ongoing for several years regarding the classification structure for these members and there is still no positive outcome.

Although it is acknowledged that there has been work done on this issue, the delay in reaching a conclusion is becoming very frustrating to PSA members. SA Dental Service put a submission to Department of Health earlier this year seeking to resolve the issues associated with the existing classification structure yet the PSA and SADS continue to await a response.

Discussions stalled once the barriers were identified for moving the Dental Therapists and Dental Hygienists to the Professional Officer Stream. Members are aware of the implications for 'grand-parenting' and commencing salaries for them and thus negotiations have begun but not progressed for a different structure within the OPS Stream.

There are a number of outstanding issues which still need to be addressed. These issues pertain to the level of OPS at which the majority of members feel they should be classified.

These issues include:

• The autonomous working environment of many Dental Therapists, who often work without Dentists overseeing their work.

• Dental Therapists mentoring Bachelor of Oral Health new graduates

• Incremental levels in accordance with years of experience.

• The need for salary barriers based on experience in relation to moving from OPS4 to OPS5. The PSA is not aware of any impediment that should delay Therapists moving from OPS4 to OPS5.

The PSA believes that the date of implementation should be October 2005.

PSA members have determined that if this matter is not responded to by close of business on 11 July 2008 that formal action may be considered.

Contact Industrial Officer Carly Cooper on 8205 3285 or email: clc@cpsu.asn.au if you have any queries or comments

PSA WORKING FOR MEMBERS IN SADS