The Public Service Association provided evidence to the Legislative Council Select Committee on Families SA on Friday 24 April. That evidence elaborated on the Association's submission to the Committee which is available here.

The Committee was established on 14 March 2007 and is expected to report by 17 June 2009. The Committee consists of the Hon Caroline Schafer (chairperson), Hon Ann Bressington, Hon Robert Lawson and Hon Robert Brokenshire.

The PSA was represented by Chief Industrial Officer Peter Christopher, Industrial Officer Ken Smith and witnesses from the PSA membership within Families SA. These witnesses were selected to provide an agency-wide perspective.

Details of those attending and the evidence provided is confidential with evidence 'in camera' to protect those present. The evidence itself is covered by Parliamentary Privilege.

Issues raised by the PSA included the following:

Lack of funding for the agency.

Resource issues including staff and equipment.

Re-alignment of the district boundaries.

Difficulties with the new Community Justice program.

Issues related to Court Orders.

The high turnover of staff, under-classification and lack of training.

PSA will continue to press for appropriate resourcing to be made available to Families SA to ensure that the community receives the services that it needs and that members workload issues are addressed.

PSA Chief Industrial Officer Peter Christopher on 8205 3220 or e-mail pgc@cpsu.asn.au.

PSA WORKING FOR MEMBERS IN FAMILIES SA