News Flash

INTERIM AWARD UPDATE

PSA attended a Directions Hearing before Deputy President Hampton this afternoon, Wednesday, 20 October 2004, regarding the Interim Award for the 3.5 per cent pay increase.

The PSA had previously submitted to the Commission and Government a draft Interim Award which reflected the Full Bench decision of 6 October 2004.

The majority of the Interim Award, as drafted by the PSA was accepted by Government with the following major exceptions:

The PSA draft Award showed a date of effect of 1 October 2004, consistent with the Full Bench Decision. The Government argued that this should be a date of effect from the first pay day on or after 1 October 2004, rather than actually from 1 October 2004.

The PSA draft provided for a 'No Extra Claims' clause which ran until November 2005, or such earlier date as determined by the Commission. The Government argued for a form of words that this clause apply for the life of the Interim Award. Government Advocates will now seek instructions about alternative terminology.

Most other changes discussed were of a technical or drafting nature and are expected to be quickly resolved

PSA will now redraft the Interim Award to reflect today's Commission Hearing. It is expected that the redrafted document will be provided to the Commission quickly.

Payment of the actual increases is still subject to formal approval of the Interim Award by the Commission.

EXECUTIVES

PSA has been contacted by many concerned Executives following the Government announcement that any new contracts for Executives will not contain tenure, even where this currently exists.

PSA believes that the Government's actions in this regard are unlawful, and contrary to the Public Sector Management Act. Members who may fall into this category may confidentially contact Chief Industrial Officer Peter Christopher on 8205 3220 or email pgc@cpsu.asn.au or Acting Assistant Chief Industrial Officer, Ian Peak on 8205 3288 or email ian@cpsu.asn.au

21 October 2004