STATE GOVERNMENT BUDGET

The Treasurer, Kevin Foley today handed down the Government's 2004/2005 Budget.

Unlike other Budgets of recent years, provision was made for significant improvements in such important areas as health, education, the environment and child protection. PSA research and campaigns have highlighted the importance of these areas and the Government's commitment to them is welcomed.

Financial windfalls to the Government from the GST, Land Tax and Poker Machine revenue have given the opportunity to improve services to the South Australian community.

The decision to end staff cuts through the cessation of the TVSP program provides an opportunity to start rebuilding Public Sector services.

PSA is disappointed that there has been no increase in youth employment and also that the much needed replacement for the Magill Training Centre is not budgeted for.

PSA will analyse the extensive Budget documents over the coming days. Members feedback regarding the impact on their Agencies would be welcomed.

EB UPDATE

The long running EB dispute took another turn today with Deputy President Hampton of the Industrial Relations Commission hearing an application by Government for the matter to be arbitrated.

PSA argued that this was premature and that efforts should be focused on the Government being required to genuinely negotiate.

PSA particularly questioned how the negotiation period could be said to have ended when the Government has yet to even put the current offer to a ballot.

DP Hampton has reserved his decision.

27 May 2004