WAGES PARITY ARBITRATION PAID MATERNITY LEAVE CONCLUDES

On Tuesday, 1 March 2005 the PSA and Government concluded their submissions to the Full Bench of the South Australian Industrial Relations Commission in respect to paid maternity leave.

PSA witnesses established details of paid maternity leave entitlements in other States (up to 14 weeks) and the Commonwealth Public Sector (12 weeks has existed for over 30 years).

Strong emphasis was also placed on the health and welfare of mother and child during and after birth.

Government focused on the cost of paid maternity leave and that the SA Public Sector should not be a pacesetter.

As members have been advised, it is likely to be some time before the Decision on this matter is handed down. The Decision will determine the date from which any increase in paid maternity leave will apply, as well the number of paid weeks available to employees.

The Arbitration for salaries will commence to be heard on 10 March 2005.

1 March 2005