News Flash

On Tuesday 16 August 2011, Public Service Association (PSA) representatives Peter Hewish (Vice President), Geoff Aitchison, Chris Deutrom and Industrial Officer Jean-Guy Townsend met with the Executive Director(ED) of Families SA, David Waterford and senior Human Resources representatives. The meeting was held to discuss key concerns the PSA had raised with the Hon. Jennifer Rankine.

This meeting provided an opportunity for more robust and candid discussions to occur. Many of the points raised were not resolved but the PSA is hopeful that resolution is possible once the staffing model, Behaviour Management Framework(BMF) and Programs are developed and agreed to. The issues discussed were as follows:

1. Covered & Secured Walkways

   PSA was able to provide specific concerns in relation to requiring this improvement. The Department has taken on board member concerns and believes that a compromise may be possible.

2. Second Emergency Exit

   The Department assured the PSA that the Architect met all guidelines and building codes including endorsement from the Metropolitan Fire Service. Also, Emergency Evacuation Procedures will be developed to ensure workers and residents are safe without jeopardising security. PSA asked that the MFS endorsement be confirmed in writing.

3. Code Yellow Response Time

   The Department was able to report that serious consideration has been given to the creation of a response team as part of its initial discussions on developing a staffing model. The Department will provide the PSA with a draft Staffing Model in the near future and will ensure that appropriate consultation will be undertaken.

4. Increase Number of Cabins

   Clear examples were provided to the Department in relation to the amount of cabins required in times of high capacity and crisis. The Department indicated that Programs, Staffing and the BMF will provide more options than currently are available to workers in managing capacity and crisis. Also, should changes need to be made to the current Cavan facility, funding is available.

5. Work Space for Client Service and Education workers

   Again, clearer examples were provided to the Department of PSA concerns. The plans for this work space meet appropriate standards but the Department will further investigate an alternative to ensure that standards are not compromised. At this stage, it is envisaged that the majority of Client Services work will occur at the Jonal Drive site, which may alleviate some of these concerns.

6. Security Doors

   The Department was quick to assure the PSA that all doors will be of the appropriate standard and further discussion satisfied PSA concerns.

7. No Staff Cuts

   The Department confirmed that no job cuts would be made to existing staffing levels. The PSA indicated that if anything, staffing would need to be increased. The Department indicated that the draft staffing model would soon be released and further discussion would occur at that time.

During discussions on each point, the staffing model, Behaviour Management Framework and Programs were all mentioned as being integral to alleviating PSA concerns. The Department will contact the PSA to ensure consultation occurs on each of these areas in the coming weeks.

It was also mentioned that the numerous "new way of doing business" comments made by many management representatives has been confusing and led to a sense of mistrust amongst members in relation to the new centre. It was discussed, that members need improved communication with a series of information forums to clarify the "new way of doing business". These will be held for all shifts at both centres in the near future.

PSA MEMBERS WORKING TOGETHER

TO WIN TOGETHER

23 August 2011