Today, the Full Bench of the South Australian Industrial Relations Commission heard the Government's closing submission. The PSA's QC, David Quick gave the final comments before the Commission adjourned.

In addition, submissions were presented regarding the length of the Award. PSA strongly advocated that the Award should terminate in October 2005, following the final pay increase. It is the Association's view that, had an Enterprise Agreement been reached in late 2003, such an Agreement would have expired in late 2005.

The Government persisted in its argument that any Award does not expire until October 2006, ie an extra year in length. The PSA is clearly of the view that this would cause an inequity for all employees covered by this Award.

In relation to the paid maternity/adoption leave case which was heard in February/March 2004, the Full Bench indicated late today that it will not hand down this decision next week, as previously indicated. The PSA will inform members immediately once the Association becomes aware of the decision date.

It is not yet known when the decision on the wages increase will be known, however, the PSA will continue to keep members informed.

The PSA would like to take this opportunity to thank all members for their support and contribution throughout this long campaign. The PSA's position has been unwavering in advocating for a fair wage increase that is well deserved by the public sector workers covered by the SA Government (Public Sector Salaried Employees) Salaries Interim Award 2004, and has presented the best case possible in support of this.

22April 2005