On Friday 20 Friday 2009 PSA Senior Industrial Officer Dolly Costello attended the SA Health Unions Consultative Forum. The following key agenda items were discussed.

Draft Performance Review and Development Policy

The policy which is intended to provide a consistent and statewide framework for Performance Review and Development has been approved by portfolio Executives subject to final consultation with unions. The PSA has provided feedback.

SA Health Performance Review and Development seeks to achieve the following key objectives:

• To define individual's performance objectives, clarifying work and performance expectations.

• To review an individual's performance against these objectives.

• To provide formal and informal recognition, guidance, encouragement and regular feedback on performance.

• To align an individual's performance objectives and competencies with those of the local work unit, department, region and the SA Health Care Plan.

• To determine relevant professional development opportunities.

COAG/Commonwealth/State Reforms

Tthe Council of Australian Governments (COAG) reform process was presented with the main focus now on outcomes and rewarding reform in key areas rather than focusing on penalties. The four elements of Health Workforce Reform were discussed in the context of the amount of funding committed to by COAG. The presentation covered:

• Background on the COAG reform process which was recommenced in December 2007.

• Outcomes delivered from the COAG November 2008 meeting.

• Structure of the new Commonwealth/State financial arrangements and the specific health funding provided under these new arrangements.

• Roles and responsibilities

• COAG reporting structure

• DH division of responsibilities

PSA voiced concerns about the inadequate health funding committed by COAG for South Australian Health Services.

For enquiries contact PSA Senior Industrial Officer Dolly Costello on 8205 3244 or email: dlc@cpsu.asn.au

PSA/CPSU WORKING FOR MEMBERS IN HEALTH