News Flash

PPPs - MEETING WITH TREASURER

The PSA met with the Treasurer, the Hon Kevin Foley today regarding the Government's Public Private Partnership (PPP) proposals.

The Government, as previously announced in the Budget, is proposing PPPs for the new prisons, Pre-Release Centre, Secure Youth Training Centre (SYTC) and six new schools.

Government has today commenced a market sounding process for interested parties and potential PPP bidders.

Prisons

The Treasurer advised that while custodial services will be provided by the Public Sector, that the Government is to examine a range of other services being provided by the Private Sector if they can demonstrate value for money proposals. The PSA is concerned that services to be tested include 'stores, catering, industries, medical services, rehabilitation programs and routine administration functions'.

Education Services within prisons will be market tested.

The PSA believes this is contrary to the Premier's undertaking to the PSA that 'Any new prison built in South Australia will be staffed by the Public Sector'.

Secure Youth Training Centre

The Government has advised that PPPs may provide the above functions plus 'security monitoring, cleaning, a visitors cafe and transport services'. Education Services at the SYTC are currently provided by public employees, and would not be affected under the PPP arrangements.

Education

Teaching, education support and school administration functions will not be affected. It is proposed that the PPP will include 'maintenance of buildings and grounds, provision of furniture, fittings and equipment and janitorial and porterage services'.

The Government is keen to explore community use of school facilities outside of school hours by the PPP operators.

The PSA raised concerns with the Government's proposals and further meetings with Government will be held regarding these matters. Agency specific briefs will also be issued by the PSA on a regular basis.

Peter Christopher, Chief Industrial Officer on 8205 3200 or pgc@cpsu.asn.au

27 July 2007