Public Service Association members at Disabilities Daw Park and Christies Beach have been increasingly experiencing unreasonable workloads over the past year due to unfilled vacancies. These unreasonable workloads caused members to be concerned for both their OHS&W and for the service provided to clients. These vacancies were not new positions but established positions and therefore budgeted for. The Department of Families & Communities has stated that due budget constraints that “all” vacancies will not necessarily be filled. Members decided that this was NOT GOOD ENOUGH and acted!

At a meeting held at midday on Wednesday the 28^th of March members resolved to implement several Occupational, Health, Safety & Welfare actions to ensure that they no longer put themselves at risk and were able to effectively provide services to their clients.

On Thursday evening PSA Councilor Mike McKay, with PSA Industrial Officers Ian Peak and Jean-Guy Townsend met with Disabilities SA Executive Director and DFC Human Recourses Director. At this meeting DFC management committed to filling the majority of vacancies. This would not have been possible if not for the solidarity and resolve that members demonstrated at the Southern Region Disabilities SA offices.

The PSA considers that all vacant positions should be filled. This will ensure that a high level of service delivery is maintained and that members do not suffer unreasonable workloads.

Many members may find themselves in unsafe working environments but seldom realise or recognise that positive changes can be made. These issues may include one or all of the following: Accommodation, Security, Bullying and Harassment and Working Environment-lighting, noise etc. The most common is unreasonable Workloads. If you believe that you may be affected by any of the above please do not hesitate to contact your Industrial Officer or Worksite Representative.

For more information or if you have any questions or concerns please contact Jean-Guy Townsend PSA Industrial Officer on 8205 3233 or jgt@cpsu.asn.au

2 April 2007