The ILF is also attended by the Australian Nurses Federation and DCSA Executive management. This ILF provides members with an opportunity to raise Dom Care specific issues directly with Management.

The main topics discussed were:

Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare; Squalor Cleaning

Members had reported that squalor cleaning has been introduced as a new function to Para Medical Aide and Carer teams. Squalor cleaning involves the cleaning of client's homes and yards that have degenerated into squalor. This can include the cleaning of ingrained dirt and grime, excrement, other bodily wastes and fluids as well as the removal of rubbish. Some members reported that they were directed, with no choice, to undertake this function. The PSA put to management that this direction would be challenged as "unreasonable" and members could not be forced to undertake squalor cleaning should they not wish to. Management agreed and indicated that employees should not be forced into performing this role and only employees who were willing to perform squalor cleaning would be asked to do so. Management also confirmed that specific training and relevant Personal Protective Equipment is available.

Future Role of DCSA;

This will be a standing agenda item due to upcoming changes to Federal and State Aged Care funding arrangements. The current funding arrangement for DCSA will expire in 2011 and DCSA will need to have proven it's sustainability. At this stage there is nothing new to report.

Personal Performance Partnerships(PPP);

A DCSA specific PPP will be developed with links to staff training within DCSA and the College of Learning. This will assist members in undertaking training opportunities. The PPP's will involve two sessions each year, one formal and one informal. The goal is to make personal development more robust and transparent. The PSA was concerned that Team Leaders and Management would need to receive training to ensure PPP's were not used as pseudo- disciplinary sessions which have been common in other agencies. Management indicated that appropriate training would be provided.

Management provided an update on the outcomes of the recent staff surveys which indicated that staff generally have a distrust of management. Management also indicated what actions are being undertaken to remedy this perception. Management will continue to hold Focus Groups, opportunities for staff to meet with DCSA Executive Management and raise broad issues. Management reported that staff would like to have leave approved to engage in volunteering, better mobility across DCSA worksites, improved access to computers for all staff and for management to improve it's communication with the workforce. Management have demonstrated a willingness to consider these suggestions and will implement them where possible. Management also reported that due to members requests the Social Club has been re-established.

PSA Representatives on ILF;

The PSA is calling for three members to nominate to participate on this forum. No experience is necessary, just a willingness to support your fellow members. A representative from each of the three classification streams is required i.e. one ASO, one OPS and one PO member. All members, including current ILF representatives, are encouraged to nominate via email to your Industrial Officer. The ILF is held bi-monthly with the next meeting to occur in September 2009. Should more nominations than positions be received a roster system will be implemented or a vote amongst members will occur.

Thanks must go to our previous representatives Tracy Boundy, Jackie Jones and David Sunderland who have tirelessly represented PSA members' interests during their time on the ILF Committee.

MEMBERS WHO STAND TOGETHER, WIN TOGETHER!