News Flash

Thank you to all those members who attended the report back meeting at the PSA on Tuesday 29 June 2010 following the voluntary conference at the Industrial Relations Commission on Monday 28 June 2010. The conference was attended by industrial officer Marg Jeffries, PSA councillor David Sharrad and Worksite Representative Lesley Kornetzke.

The conference went for almost 5 hours and the PSA were able to discuss all issues that members had raised in relation to their workloads and the difficulties incurred to ensure that pays were processed on time.

Flexi time was an issue that was raised as members have not been able to use their flexi time which has resulted in some members losing their accumulated time. Members are reminded that the accrual of flexi time, with the approval of management to meet workload demands can't be lost. However, there is no requirement for any member to work any more than 7.5 hours a day and if it is necessary for additional hours to be worked, then overtime should be offered, however this is a management decision. Management will determine when overtime is necessary, it is not a requirement to work those hours using flexi time.

The Commissioner did not make recommendations for members to lift their bans but advised that it would be a positive move and that he would leave his door open for either party to return to for ongoing assistance. The Commissioner required Shared Services to work together with the PSA to identify practices that will eliminate the frustration and workload issues of answering phones whilst processing pays.

It was agreed that additional resources would be provided to deal with the backlog of phone calls and management would consult with staff to enable the best outcome to be achieved.

Following extensive discussions, members voted unanimously to lift the bans and work together toward achieving an acceptable and workable outcome for payroll officers. A good consultative process should commence and continue as Shared Services management have given their commitment to do so.

The PSA and representatives will continue to work with management through the consultative forum. 

The next meeting of members will be at the PSA 122 Pirie Street at 12.30 pm Tuesday 20 July 2010. We will send out a reminder notice the day prior. The PSA look forward to continuing to provide the ongoing support to our members in Shared Services.