In December 2008 the State Government announced a number of initiatives in the mid year budget review to address the impact of the global financial situation. One of these initiatives was a shift in the profile of the State's Public Service from administration to front line service delivery. Chief Executives of all government agencies have been asked to reduce the number of full time equivalent employees by the end of 2009/10, with further savings by 2012/13.

In order to meet targeted efficiencies the Department of Health (DH) have commissioned Ernst and Young to undertake a Core Business Review. The Business Review will assess areas of duplication, quantify potential to improve efficiency and recommend a number of key initiatives that require further investigation to determine their potential for further improvement. All 10 divisions in the Department of Health are included in the Review.

In addition to the Ernst and Young Business Review Dr Sherbon advised that there are a number of measures that he has requested Executives Directors to implement ahead of the Review and its recommendations, including the following.

• Employees who would like to consider a change in the work life balance by reducing their working hours will be encouraged to discuss this with their manager. Some of the options available include:

  • Converting from full time to permanent part time

  • Taking up purchased leave arrangements

  • Considering a transition to retirement agreement that reduces working hours

  • Long Service Leave arrangements which now offer an opportunity for employees to use shorter periods of Long Service Leave to support more flexible working arrangements.

The initiatives are intended to provide a range of options for employees and will be negotiated with their manager and approved by their Executive Director on a case by case basis. It is expected to take up to one month to conduct. PSA as the key stakeholder will be consulted throughout the Review process.

For enquiries please contact PSA Senior Industrial Officer Ms Dolly Costello on 8205 3244 or email: dlc@cpsu.asn.au

PSA/CPSU SUPPORTING MEMBERS IN THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH