News Flash

PSA AND GOVERNMENT WORK TOGETHER TO PROTECT MEMBERS' CONDITIONS

In the face of threats to erode conditions of employment resulting from the Federal Government's WorkChoices legislation, the PSA has taken the initiative in ensuring conditions of employment will be protected.

One of the PSA's primary objectives has been to protect members who will now come under the Federal jurisdiction, including Health employees, and those employed in Statutory Authorities and Corporations.

The PSA recently met with State Industrial Relations Minister the Hon Michael Wright MP requesting the State Government take steps to ensure that conditions are protected in the event that SA Public Sector staff move to the Federal Industrial jurisdiction.

PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon has now received correspondence from the Minister confirming the State Labor Government's opposition to individual contracts (AWA's), and supporting the right of union members to bargain collectively through the PSA. As detailed in the attached letter, the State Government will continue to provide existing benefits within the limits of the law.

This is a great result for PSA members, particularly as we look to the next round of Enterprise Bargaining negotiations, and provides some peace of mind as the Federal Government continues it's attack on the rights of workers.

The PSA's recent achievement in gaining a renewed commitment to Job Security if the State Labor Government is re-elected, along with the protection of existing conditions through this latest commitment from the State Government are good results achieved by PSA working on behalf of members. A copy of the Minister's letter is here.

For enquiries contact PSA Chief Industrial Officer, Peter Christopher on 8205 3220 or email: pgc@cpsu.asn.au

Professional Division: professional@cpsu.asn.au

PSA WORK TOGETHER WIN TOGETHER

31 January 2006