ENTERPRISE BARGAINING 2004 7 MAY 2004

News Flash ENTERPRISE BARGAINING 2004 `On Thursday 6th May the PSA with other employee representatives attended the Industrial Relations Commission for a directions hearing, in regard to the Government's application for a new award.` All employee representatives supported the PSA's position that the current Government's wages offer should go to ballot. The Government have consistently stated that they believe their offer is fair and reasonable. PSA members have rejected the current offer of 4 per cent to some Public Sector workers, but only 3.5 per cent to others, including professionals and graduates such as Child Protection Workers, Social Workers, Medical Scientists and Dental Technicians. The PSA is claiming 5 per cent a year over two years across the Public Sector. The Government have stated that this offer is their final offer. PSA believes it is important that members are not deprived of their democratic right to vote on their wages and conditions. `The Government argued against a ballot and asked the Commission to arbitrate the new award.` `Deputy President Hampton considered the brief presentations provided by all parties. He then set down a new hearing for the 27th May, when the parties will be given an opportunity to provide evidence and detailed submissions on their respective positions.` `In the meantime PSA members will maintain their demand for the Minister of Industrial Relations to withdraw the application for a new award and return to the bargaining table.` For information contact Acting Chief Industrial OfficerGayle Peak on 8205 288 or email gp@cpsu.asn.au `7/05/04`

ENTERPRISE BARGAINING 2004

On Thursday 6th May the PSA with other employee representatives attended the Industrial Relations Commission for a directions hearing, in regard to the Government's application for a new award.

All employee representatives supported the PSA's position that the current Government's wages offer should go to ballot. The Government have consistently stated that they believe their offer is fair and reasonable. PSA members have rejected the current offer of 4 per cent to some Public Sector workers, but only 3.5 per cent to others, including professionals and graduates such as Child Protection Workers, Social Workers, Medical Scientists and Dental Technicians. The PSA is claiming 5 per cent a year over two years across the Public Sector. The Government have stated that this offer is their final offer. PSA believes it is important that members are not deprived of their democratic right to vote on their wages and conditions.

The Government argued against a ballot and asked the Commission to arbitrate the new award.

Deputy President Hampton considered the brief presentations provided by all parties. He then set down a new hearing for the 27th May, when the parties will be given an opportunity to provide evidence and detailed submissions on their respective positions.

In the meantime PSA members will maintain their demand for the Minister of Industrial Relations to withdraw the application for a new award and return to the bargaining table.

For information contact Acting Chief Industrial OfficerGayle Peak on 8205 288

or email gp@cpsu.asn.au

7/05/04