Earlier today, PSA President Lindsay Oxlad, General Secretary Jan McMahon, Assistant General Secretary Nev Kitchin, Industrial Officers Simon Johnson and Steve Acton met with The Hon Jay Weatherill, Minister Assisting the Premier in Cabinet and Business and Public Sector Management.

The Minister advised the PSA of the Government Reform Commission's most recent recommendations. The text of the speech by the Premier announcing the recommendations is here. The Commission is headed by former Queensland Premier, Wayne Goss.

Firstly, Cabinet Office of the Department of Premier and Cabinet will be expanding its size and function. Currently there are 24 staff which will increase to 60. The Minister advised that Cabinet Office will now take more of an across-Government Policy role to enable the achievement of the State's Strategic Plan.

Additionally, the Minister advised that a new SA Executive Service will be established, effective 1 July 2007. The new Executive Service will be voluntary and will enable Senior Public Servants to accept contracts of employment.

The PSA raised concerns regarding tenure and the impact of such a voluntary scheme on promotional opportunities for PSA members, especially women. The Government has committed to full consultation with the PSA and reiterated that any move across to a SA Executive Service contract is purely voluntary.

The Minister also advised that the Government Reform Commission has identified the enhancement of a service award system. The PSA was advised that the Premier is keen to encourage innovation and ongoing improvement among Public Sector workers.

Review of Public Sector Management Act

The Minister advised that the State Government will introduce a new Bill into State Parliament shortly to reform the Public Sector Management Act. Importantly, the Government has committed to provide the PSA with a copy of the new legislation prior to its tabling in Parliament.

The PSA has been advised that no terms and conditions of employment will be diminished. Furthermore, all existing conditions will remain in the legislation and not transferred across to regulations.

In conclusion, the Government has committed to continue to consult with the PSA on these matters.

For any queries, please contact PSA Acting Chief Industrial Officer, Gayle Peak

Ph: 8205 3288 or Email: gp@cpsu.asn.au

PSA WORKING FOR YOU

7 December 2006