Public Service Association of NSW Post Office approved PP 255003/01563 ISSN 1030–0740 Red TapeJanuary–April 2016 www.psa.asn.au PSA confronts private jail plans The State Government’s obsession with privatisation continues, this time with plans to 'market test' the operations of NSW prisons.

However, the PSA’s Steve on performance targets for the state’s inmate population passes MacMahon is not convinced. first time” and “an independent 12,000. “We have been trying to work consultant has been engaged to Interview on the ABC, Minister with the Baird Government in analyse public prison operations Elliot described NSW prisons as “a fixing the overcrowding crisis in in NSW and compare them to the growth industry”. our jails, but this is purely about private sector as well as public As the Government ponders more selling off public assets to get prisons in Queensland”. privatised options, a report from their hands on more money.” However, the benchmarking the University of Sydney has found privatised prisons “will not lead to In a recent performance audit, process will not apply to the John increased public accountability”. Corrective Services NSW Morony prison, which is going was urged to “complete its straight to ‘market testing’. “There are many instances of benchmarking exercise on public private prison failure,” reads The correctional centre performance”. The Government’s moves, teamed Costs of Commissioning by Associate with a boost in bed numbers in The report found that “individual Professor Jane Andrew, Dr Max Berrima and Cessnock, come at Baker and Dr Philip Roberts. public correctional centre a time when prison numbers are performance could not be “Recent examples include the determined as correctional skyrocketing. death of Mr Ian Ward during a centre KPIs [key performance The performance auditor report transportation by G4S, the serious indicators] and benchmarks were said NSW has “experienced misconduct by Serco staff at Mount not clearly set”. significant growth in its inmate Eden NZ, and the mismanagement of Melbourne Metropolitan population”, growing 20 percent In response, Minister Elliot Women’s Correction Centre by the in two years, with recent riots in announced “public prisons will Corrections Corporation of America.” be required to meet and report Goulburn and Wellington as the The PSA will be working with officer in, not just NSW, but the staff at the John Morony medium- country, is under threat from this security jail near Windsor, north- heavy-handed tactic.” west of Sydney, to prevent its The ‘market testing’ at John Call to arms over outsourcing operations falling into the hands Morony Correctional Centre will of the private sector. be overseen by Professor Gary PSA General Secretary Anne Gardiner speaks to some of the department’s critical roles, which bring After announcing plans to Sturgess, holder of the NSW Land and Property Information (LPI) employees $100 million a year into government coffers. ‘benchmark’ the operations of Premier’s Australia and New outside Queen’s Square, Sydney in February. For a full report on the protest, plus news on a the state’s prisons, Minister Zealand School of Government Workers later marched on the nearby State Government back-down over LPI outsourcing, turn for Corrections David Elliott Chair of Public Service Delivery at Parliament to protest against plans to outsource to page 9. announced plans to “market the University of New South Wales. test” the possibility of a private In 2000, Professor Sturgess worked operator running the John Morony for the Serco Group, a company medium-security jail near Windsor, that runs prisons in the United north-west of Sydney. Kingdom and parts of Australia. “Privately run prisons in New Serco was found to have covered Zealand have been a debacle with up the sexual abuse of immigrants inmates setting up fight clubs and under its watch at Yarl’s Wood posting videos of their fights on Immigration Removal Centre social media,” says the PSA’s Prison prison in Britain. Officers Vocational Branch head Steve McMahon. Writing in the Sydney Morning Herald in the week the plans “There is no accountability or for John Morony were released, transparency. Sturgess denied the NSW “The NSW public jail system boasts Government was planning the best officers in the world.” outright privatisation. McMahon adds that a week before “The point of the exercise is not the announcement, “the Minister to outsource the management was announcing bravery awards of NSW prisons, but to create an for our members, who faced environment where cost and service life-threatening incidents in our quality are measured, facility by overcrowded jails”. facility, and where management Interviewed on Seven news, Mr is held to account for a persistent McMahon said, “Every prison failure to deliver,” he wrote. Anne Gardiner From the General Secretary The PSA is taking action

As you'll be painfully aware, the individual and collective needs of PSA members are increasing due to this Government’s escalation of restructures, privatisation, performance management, badly supported IT projects and targeting of conditions.

These attacks are unprecedented in in mainstream newspapers on the The MSC managed to completion 7,500 against PSA advice, this may affect what NSW public service history and have also importance of the work being done by cases arising from these calls. assistance the PSA can provide. resulted in massive work overload for PSA members. In order for the PSA to continue to Finally, it is recognised that there are still many members. The PSA has also established a Member focus resources on delivering a positive areas where improvement is needed in In addition, the NSW Government has Support Centre (MSC) in order to service outcome for the greatest number of the way the PSA is working. changed the way it manages staff through increased member needs. members, we currently triage calls using However, PSA staff are committed to the GSE Act and the creation of the Public The MSC allows all members equal the following principles: continuous improvement and to assisting Service Commission. members with the very challenging access to the PSA and has also resulted • When members contact the MSC, our This means the PSA and its staff have had in the creation of a comprehensive environment now being faced. staff will discuss how we can assist to to adapt to these changed circumstances database of issues. resolve the issue raised. Anne Gardiner and adopt a different approach. This database has allowed the PSA to General Secretary • For every issue, the PSA will assess, on As part of this changed approach, the quickly identify emerging issues and to behalf of all our members, what can and PSA has developed a proactive media and reallocate internal resources. can’t be done, and what will and won’t advertising focus. A recent example of this was the hundreds be done, in respect to the issue. The aim of this has been to lift the profile of temporary jobs saved as a result of a of public sector workers and also raise coordinated and proactive approach taken For example, we cannot assist if the caller concerns in the community about the by the PSA and its members. is not a financial member of the PSA or if the issue arose before the member joined. direction the NSW Government is heading In 2015, Advocacy and Case with its mass privatisation of public services. Management Officers in the MSC were Importantly, where assistance has In the last six months, the PSA has the first point of contact for almost previously been requested about the same had four opinion pieces published 28,000 calls from members. or a similar issue, or if the member goes Special constables get deserved recognition Congratulations to NSW Special Constables. Special constables were presented with the inaugural National Medal, recognising their critical work serving the people of NSW. General Secretary Anne Gardiner joined invited guests to see acting Commissioner Catherine Burn present the well-deserved medal. PSA members will remember it was the brave work of Special Constables who averted further tragedy when public servant Curtis Cheng was murdered in Parramatta. Special Constables play important roles in security and protection as part of NSW Police Counter Terrorism Command.

March for equality

The double standards PSA members and staff marched from the union’s headquarters to the applied to male- and female- Industrial Relations Commission to dominated industries were protest about the lack of consultation highlighted in a PSA march over the total privatisation of parts of Disabilty Services. through Sydney. The Commission was concilliating the dispute about the lack of consultation lodged by the PSA. Marchers pointed out conditions for employees of the privatised ferry system were much more favourable than those in ADHC, which has more women employed in its ranks.

2 – Red Tape January–April 2016 Back in black: Member profile Jules Bros PSA wins money NPWS owed to SAS staff Jules Bros has been working as a ranger with the National Parks and Wildlife Services in Oberon’s Kanangra Area office for 18 years. The PSA has helped win back PSA brings festive cheer What does your job involve? NPWS being helicoptered into a remote pay for three School Learning Kanangra Area staff manage 21 fire; assisting in a search and rescue; An ADHC employee has described the reserves, from Jenolan Caves in the rescuing wildlife, usually snakes from Support Officers (SLSOs) who PSA as an “amazing organisation” after east to Wyangala Dam in the west. buildings or injured wildlife along had been underpaid for years. his union prevented him being stood Our core business involves managing; roadsides; get called out to a law down just before Christmas. pest and weed control programs; park enforcement issue on park; assist in Three staff members at the one school Lindgren Farley was one of a number infrastructure; looking after visitor hazard reduction burns; or it could turn were at times engaged less than the of disability support workers required and recreational facilities; threatened- out to be just a busy day catching up minimum two hours per day. to obtain police clearances for working species conservation; law enforcement; on the endless paperwork in the office. When they did work more than two hours with children. fire management, which is both wild What do you enjoy about your job? per day, they were not paid for their However, while he met the cut-off date, fire suppression and hazard-reduction The variety of work I undertake and 10-minute morning tea break. he was told not to come into work burning; wildlife management both on- the great people I work with – we are The three members contacted the PSA until it was cleared. and off-park; search and rescues; and a very tight-knit team at Kanangra. Member Support Centre (MSC). Making matters worse, Mr Farley’s multi-agency landholder liaison. And And I like working in such a beautiful As a result, in November 2015, the MSC family had just joined him from Liberia, that is to name but a few. and adventurous part of Australia and knowing that my work and lifestyle contacted the industrial relations section after an eight-year wait to be reunited. What is a typical day at work? There have positive implications towards of the Department of Education and Without his income the family was is no such thing as a typical day building a healthier environment for Communities, to advocate for members. facing a bleak Christmas. at work and that is why I enjoy my the future. In March 2016, numerous incidences were Intervention by the PSA saw Mr Farley job so much. You never know what uncovered of underpayment to all three and other ADHC workers kept on your day will bring: you may end up SLSOs, who were each found to be owed unless an adverse police finding was about $6000. handed down. The SLSOs will be paid the full amount by Mr Farley is thankful for the role the the department, which will then recover PSA played in getting him back to work Call for nominations the monies from the school. so quickly. Central Council calls for nominations from interested members and delegates of the The school is negotiating a repayment “I didn’t know how such an organisation PSA for the following committees: plan with the department. could be so concerned about me. • Newcastle Trades Hall Council “I have started encouraging others who • South Coast Labor Council. have not registered for membership Members from these particular areas only will be eligible to nominate. with the PSA to hasten registration. Contact: [email protected] “With confidence I can clearly say all has been good.” Please note: there is no expenses allowance available for attendance at these committee meetings.

Know your limits in schools The LMBR template The PSA is working with the NSW Nurses and Midwives Association feedback form The PSA has developed a template to better support students with special needs in the state’s schools. form to enable us to better capture member feedback on the LMBR School Administration and Support (SAS) • PSA staff will be shown the training kit • Staff must be appropriately trained and program. The easy to use online form staff have been pressured to perform that is delivered by Nurse Educators for remunerated in accordance with the has been sent to members. invasive medical procedures on students, Health Care Procedures. award. The feedback received through the despite this not being in their duties. • PSA feedback to the health care The Special Considerations Panel template form will be fed through In one instance, a SAS staff member was procedures will be reconsidered by the includes representatives from the PSA, the PSA's regular LMBR meeting with the department. instructed to insert a catheter into a student Department in greater detail and a the Department, and the NSW Nurses and Midwives Association. Only the panel can with specific health needs, despite the staff further meeting will be held with the approve a student’s Special Consideration member having no health training. Department to discuss our concerns. Application. KPMG LMBR Report With government policies ‘mainstreaming’ • PSA staff have requested attendance SLSOs who choose to volunteer are advised Through our member contacts the PSA many special-needs students, SAS staff are as an observer at the next Health Care not to perform any procedures requiring had become aware that the Department increasingly being placed under pressure Procedure training day. special consideration without first sighting of Education commissioned KPMG to to perform invasive medical procedures • The Department will not release the the student’s Health Management Plan review the implementation of LMBR in better performed by trained nursing staff. manual until agreement is reached with and an approved Special Consideration a selection of 229 schools in 2015. The PSA has been working closely with the PSA. Application. On 1 October 2015 the PSA wrote to the Special Education Working Group PSA members will continue to be updated the Department seeking that a copy of and the NSW Nurses and Midwives as meetings progress. the report be disclosed to the PSA. Association in providing the Department However, the Department declined to In the meantime the PSA would like with feedback on the draft Health Care provide the report. Procedures Manual, which was recently up to remind members of the following important points. The PSA then put in a Government for review. Information (Public Access) Act On 15 January 2016, the Department • Health care procedures should only 2009 (GIPA) application to obtain provided a response to the PSA’s feedback, occur under the direct supervision of a this document and we obtained a although your union is not satisfied that teacher. partial release of the report on 2 the concerns raised in our feedback have • Invasive procedures such as February 2016. Securing this report been appropriately addressed by the catheterisation and deep suctioning are is most useful for the PSA and our Department. not within the SLSO role. membership. The PSA is now in the process of Accordingly, the PSA notified a dispute on • In relation to shallow suctioning having this report reviewed by our the issue on and assisting with intermittent self- lawyers and we will update members catheterisation, special consideration 3 February 2016. further upon receiving legal advice on The PSA had our first dispute meeting applications are required (see below). this issue. with the Department on 25 February • Health care procedures are voluntary 2016. At this meeting the following action and no SLSO should feel coerced or items were agreed to: pressured into undertaking these duties.

January–April 2016 Red Tape – 3 Sue Walsh From the President

When the going gets tough, 'Angry' ADHC the tough join a union goes viral It’s no secret that these continue to be extremely difficult times for NSW public sector workers – and workers worldwide.

It seems we are constantly being seems to be picking up speed In essence, the more members forced into unchartered waters with their reforms rather than the union has, the more powerful by the Baird Government, with biding their time. its position in its dealings with regard to our jobs, our conditions The bottom line is this: unions the Government and individual and our future. and the PSA specifically are the agencies and departments. And that was before the Treasurer only barrier that exists between A strong united membership decided in late February to step you and the Government’s anti- makes for a formidable opponent up the Government’s efforts to public sector agenda. for any employer or Government. grind down the public sector It’s that simple. That is not rhetoric but fact. further with even more job cuts. The State Opposition is all And make no mistake; it is It should be very clear by now that essential that we not only be such too often missing in action or Online campaigner Jordan the Baird Government might like a force but also grow to meet the The PSA has launched absent entirely when it comes to Shanks Markovina, better to talk up the benefits of a strong challenges ahead. standing up against the attacks on an online campaign known as Friendlyjordies, has public sector when it suits. the public sector. So if a colleague is not a member, to publicise the Baird highlighted the doublespeak of But in reality, the sector is It is the PSA and only the PSA have a conversation with them Government’s plan a government that talks about considered by the Government as that has the capacity to do the about joining the PSA. offering better choice to people little more than a budgetry play hard yards on your behalf and on Remember: united we bargain, to move all disability with a disability - while actually thing that can be squeezed for behalf of the services you provide. divided we beg. support work to the removing their most popular funds when required. choice of care. There is strength in being a Sue Walsh private sector. The Government are only one member of the PSA and strength President The online campaign can be year into their new term in office, in being shoulder-to-shoulder accessed via the PSA website or but as the Treasurer’s recent push with other members across the Facebook page. indicated, the Baird administration state as a collective.

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4 – Red Tape January–April 2016 PSA hits the All PSA members are road in Bathurst invited to… PSA Annual Conference 2016 Thursday 26 May & Friday 27 May Wesley Centre, Pitt Street Sydney

Country conference meets on 25 May at 6pm

Any PSA member can nominate to attend Annual Conference as a conference delegate. Preference will be given to those members who have not attended Conference before. PSA Annual Conference is the largest gathering of PSA members and an advisory body to Central Council. Conference places for PSA members are based on workplace constituencies or combined workplace constituencies. See Assistant General Secretary of the PSA, our website for a list of constituencies, conference delegate Steve Turner, visited Bathurst recently to numbers and nomination forms: www.psa.asn.au. hear from members and show support to Nominations close with the PSA Secretariat Lesley Twigger – a region particularly affected by job cuts. [email protected] – by COB 2 May. It is estimated that approximately 310 Members may apply to their Department for two days’ Special jobs will be cut in the Bathurst region Trade Union Leave to attend Conference. alone – damning families and the local Expense forms are sent to successful country conference economy, not to mention some of society’s delegates along with their confirmation of nomination. most disadvantaged. If you have any queries please email Lesley Twigger at The visit included meetings with [email protected] correctional staff members, ADHC workers and employees of the Trustee and Guardian. Local MP Paul Toole was described at the rally as 'the minister for job cuts'.

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Your needs, your goals, your retirement.

You wouldn’t have it any other way. Neither would we.

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This document contains general information only and does not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making a decision about First State Super, consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for the product you currently hold or are considering. The PDS is available from firststatesuper.com.au or by calling 1300 650 873. FSS Trustee Corporation ABN 11 118 202 672 AFSL 293340 is the trustee of the First State Superannuation Scheme ABN 53 226 460 365.

January–April 2016 Red Tape – 5 Penalty rates good for Out of the fire and business, finds report into a pay storm

NPWS employees work A familiar refrain from the business community – penalty rates on the Yokalaba hazard reduction burn, setting fire in are bad for the economy – has been dealt a blow by a report a controlled manner to 227 from the McKell Institute. hectares in Kanangra Boyd National Park on 17 February to protect surrounding private property, pine The recent Productivity Commission rural areas made a living in retail The report also found parents plantations and the tourist precinct at Jenolan Caves. flagged the idea of cutting penalty or hospitality – a rate higher than working longer hours to make rates for workers in Australia’s in the capital cities. up for a cut in hourly pay can hospitality and retail sector. Workers are not the only ones have a negative impact on families, particularly if more than Under the commission’s plans, who will suffer. one person in the household is public sector workers were to Cuts to the spending power of a be exempt from changes, in part dependent on penalty rates. disproportionate number of local due to higher rates of union The report was compiled using workers would be likely to affect membership. workers from a variety of fields, rural and regional businesses. from low-paid positions such as Organisations such as Restaurant “Most respondents indicated supermarket shelf-stackers to and Catering Australia and that they would need to reduce better-paid jobs such as high- companies such as Brickworks NSW National Parks and Wildlife Yet rangers have been advised their expenditure on items end chefs and a trainer working Limited (a major donor to the Service (NPWS) Rangers are that their weekend loading of 17 and activities including dining for a bank. Liberal Party) have supported returning from fighting fires in percent may be cut and far fewer out, social activities in their moves to cut penalty rates. Western Australia and Tasmania staff will be required to work area, tourism, events, home The McKell Institute has issued to learn the Office of Environment weekends to protect our National renovations, extracurricular and Heritage (OEH) is planning to Parks and their visitors. a report in response to these activities for their children, cut their pay and weekend hours. moves to strip workers of long- Rangers are more than happy to insurance products, and minor standing benefits, which date Rangers play an important part in work additional weekends but are leisure items.” back to a 1909 ruling in the firefighting throughout Australia, not prepared to take a 17 percent Commonwealth Conciliation and Items particularly at threat from with more than 100 of them pay cut. Arbitration Commission. such discretionary spending already deployed interstate this “National Parks are a major would include takeaway fire season to fight major wildfires The report authors, from Equity weekend and holiday destination coffee, takeaway food or in various states. Economics and UMR Strategic for thousands of families and they restaurant meals – much Research, found rural and Rangers working weekends also rely on the experienced efforts of regional areas, overwhelmingly of which is provided by fulfil many important duties, rangers to maintain a safe leisure represented by the Liberal smaller, locally owned including visitor safety; law environment,” says PSA General and National parties, would be businesses. enforcement; rapid response Secretary, Anne Gardiner. firefighting; flora and fauna disproportionately affected by cuts The report found “a partial “In the past two years alone, the monitoring; checking facilities and to penalty rates. abolition of penalty rates rangers' ranks have been reduced campgrounds; and undertaking by 20 percent. There are currently “While the effects of such a in the retail and hospitality search and rescue operations. 50 unfilled ranger vacancies in change would be widely and sectors would result in … a NPWS staff are an essential part the NPWS with only 212 rangers deeply felt throughout the loss of disposable income of assisting the Rural Fire Service now remaining to manage our nation, in homes and around of between $53.8 million (RFS) in conducting some hazard- magnificent national parks.” kitchen tables of wage earning and $106.2 million per reduction burn offs. employees, there will be a annum to local economies The PSA is pressing the Baird disproportionate impact on the in rural NSW”. Depending on the location, an Government to fill the 50 NPWS striker unit could be at a vacancies and maintain the towns and local economies in Non-metropolitan regions fire 30 minutes or more before an rangers’ weekend conditions. rural and regional Australia.” in other states and RFS truck. The institute found that about 18 territories would face NPWS people also fill key roles in percent of workers in regional and similar threats. the Incident Management Team at large fires. PSA helping break down barriers to longer employment Discrimination against older workers and those with disabilities is holding back Federal Government plans to keep Australians in employment for longer, the PSA has claimed.

In a submission to Willing to seeking a profile of employee to raise concerns about Or, sadly, workers miss out on of younger employees, and that Work: National Inquiry into similar to the stereotypical discrimination, the outcome was roles because there is a belief employers ‘don’t want a geriatric Employment Discrimination Against traditional ‘standard worker’.” usually less than positive.” people would rather deal with looking office.” Older Australians and Australians The PSA surveyed members about But there was hope for people younger, prettier faces. “This was mentioned by with Disability, conducted by discrimination in the workforce, who did have the courage to “Roles described by respondents respondents as a particular the Australian Human Rights with sobering results. speak out. as ‘frontline’, such as customer problem for older women. Commission, the PSA claimed Almost 38 percent of respondents service roles, seem to be an area “Other respondents noted that “conflicting messages are being “Most of those lodging the indicated they – or the person on of particular concern. older women do not feature in the sent to older workers and workers matter with a tribunal lodged whose behalf they were submitting their matter with the NSW Anti- “One respondent spoke of being NSW Governments current jobs with disabilities”. website, possibly confirming that the survey – had experienced Discrimination Board. overlooked for a customer service The submission claims “penalties an older woman is not quite the discrimination in employment on role, despite 12 years of experience are frugal and do not reflect “While most applicants did not ‘look’ they are after for the sector.” the grounds of disability. receive everything they asked in similar roles. the real damage that workplace The PSA has made 15 About 11 percent of PSA “When the applicant queried discrimination does to victims of for, all stated being reasonably recommendations to the Willing members returning survey forms discrimination”. satisfied with the outcome.” whether age was a factor in the to Work inquiry, including said they had experienced some decision making process, this was “Despite demographic and The submission’s respondents separate funding for workers with form of discrimination for their denied – despite not one person attitudinal changes in society said many of the difficulties faced disabilities, a Commonwealth- role as carers. hired for any of the roles being and the workplace, legislative keeping older workers come run body to audit and report on over 50. instruments, policy and the Tragically, only 24 percent of from “a prevailing mentality that discrimination at state level, a availability of technology that those who had experienced older workers are ‘unable to learn “One respondent indicated that better workers compensation enables job redesign, many discrimination took action. quickly’, are ‘slow’, ‘inflexible’, ‘fixed some workplaces seem to want a scheme for older employees and respondents stated a perception The submission says: “Of those in their ways’, and ‘are not good certain ‘look’ to the business unit, more funding for legal advice. that some employers were still who did have the courage with technology’.” a ‘fresh look’ that motivates hiring

6 – Red Tape January–April 2016 First State Super’s response to climate change Climate change presents significant risks to large investors like superannuation funds and, by definition, their members. First State Super has responded to these risks by adopting a portfolio- wide Climate Change Adaptation Plan.

In December 2015, world leaders Reaching a critical state in any This is referred to as stranded assembled in Paris for the 21st complex system is like your car’s asset risk. Conference of Parties (COP21) of brakes failing — by the time you First State Super’s Climate Change the United Nations Framework realise they’ve failed, it’s usually far Adaptation Plan seeks to protect Convention on Climate Change too late to do anything about it. our members’ investments against amid a groundswell of global the risk of climate change through This two degrees from pre- climate activism and mounting three ‘lines of defence’: industrial times. Scientists scientific evidence of global 1. Assess the risk that climate estimate that, so far, average warming. change presents to the current temperatures have risen 0.8 of a Global warming is a commonly investment portfolio and look degree — 0.5 of which has been in used term but few people realise for ways to reduce or remove just the past 35 years. that it has a specific technical these risks. definition. Carbon dioxide is re-absorbed 2. Work with the people who are Global warming is the product of very slowly, so even if the world managing the companies and something called radiative forcing, did not produce one more ounce assets we own to ensure they which occurs when more heat of the gas, temperatures are still take account of the impact Women and their super projected to rise another half a energy enters our climatic system that climate change is having Jean Turner Chapman and Graham Green from First State Super gave a than leaves it. degree above pre-industrial levels. on their assets. presentation on women and superannuation at PSA House in Sydney. The surplus heat energy must be Unfortunately, the world is still 3. Consider the scope for First State Super also sponsored the PSA’s International Women’s Day luncheon. About 30 staff attended the presentation to hear more about retained somewhere and most of producing high levels of carbon investment in renewable superannuation issues often faced by female workers. it makes its way into the upper dioxide. energy and related layers of our oceans. technologies. These In the absence of coordinated investments will benefit from The ultimate outcome of global policy action, we are surplus heat energy retention the transition to a low-carbon projected to breach the two- economy. — caused by the accumulation degree limit within 20 years. The introduction of the adaptation of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases in the Climate change of this magnitude plan follows the announcement atmosphere — is climate change. presents risks to investors such as of changes to the fund’s socially First State Super. We see this in thawing arctic responsible investment (SRI) permafrost, melting ice caps Catastrophic weather events such options. One of the most and glaciers, increasing ocean as severe flooding or bushfires are significant of these changes is the nutrient levels and higher a direct risk to investment assets, removal of companies materially surface temperatures that while the possibility of global involved in fossil fuels. increase the intensity of storms policy action to reduce emissions and super-typhoons. can threaten the value of our This isn’t something we can simply investment in, for example, fossil- respond to when the time comes. fuel companies. Unions must recalibrate In an address to the ACTU 2016 Leadership Forum, president of the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU), Ged Kearney, issued a challenge to union leaders to come up with ways to arrest declining memberships.

“I don’t want to oversee the A report on membership by two services tailored to their needs, four million workers – have their demise of a proud and successful union-aligned authors, Chris although this would not likely wages and conditions set directly union movement on my watch,” Walton and Erik Locke, says include bargaining or high-level by an enterprise agreement said Kearney, who described the unions may need to offer a ‘lite’ industrial representation negotiated by a trade union”. address as “a crisis meeting”. membership for lower cost to • Collective members: would be “Another 20 percent have their reverse declines in the number of “We have dropped the ball,” the same as the current full- wages set through union activity – people joining labour bodies. she said. service union membership. either via awards, minimum wage of To “avoid growing inequality” the the EBAs setting the market floor.” “We had a big focus on The paper adds the “binary” issue authors recommend unions stop organising and recruitment 10 of union membership – you are in “We can be very proud of that.” working as “a one trick pony” and and 15 years ago. or you are out – excludes many The Walton and Locke paper says introduce four different levels of potential members who may have “But somewhere along the line “guilt and gratitude” arguments, supporter. empathy with the organisations’ over the last decade we have where unions point out to non- • Supporters: not charged fees, beliefs, but don’t want to pay members the ethics in receiving stagnated, despite the isolated but encouraged to donate, annual fees. wins and some great recruiting benefits others pay for, have these people would be on a Other suggestions from the report limited success. efforts along the way.” database and sought for help in include broadening the number “The conventional wisdom of Kearney says while threats to campaigns on individual issues of non-industrial services on offer, extending the benefits of union union memberships come from an • New area members: paying fees such as financial planning or negotiations to non-union increasingly casualised and ‘uber- of as little as a dollar a week, career development. members needs to be revisited. ised’ workforce, there are some these members in traditionally The paper also discusses the “free “We are providing a service at growing industries ripe for unions non-union areas would be rider” issue, where non-members considerable expense, which is to target. reached via methods such as who receive the benefits won by benefitting a large number of social media and receive basic She gave the example of collective bargaining for free fail non-members.” residential aged care, which she services according to their to see why they should pay union estimated outside nursing has only needs dues. about 10 percent union coverage. • Package or non-collective As the ACTU’s Ged Kearney There are other theories around members: paying between $300 pointed out in her “crisis meeting”, on how to reverse this drop in and $400 a year, these members “over 40 percent of 9.6 million numbers. would receive additional Australian employees – almost

January–April 2016 Red Tape – 7 Future directions for social housing in NSW How developers wriggle free from social housing obligations On 24 January 2016 the NSW Government released Future Directions A proposal to construct separate neighbourhood has had some for Social Housing in NSW, committing it to an expanded role for the doors for low-income and areas upgraded by Australian community housing and private sectors. high-income residents of a company Lend Lease. British housing development is Despite lofty plans for more horrendous enough. The new directions include: income in rent was 1.5 percent particular impacts of the reform than 1100 affordable homes in But the story gets worse: building London’s expensive market, only • More than 23,000 new and for public housing and 7.6 are likely to be required. two entrances was deemed too 74 were built. replacement social and percent for community housing. FACS districts manage housing expensive, so the promised low- affordable housing dwellings. This is just one of the arguments demand, the allocation of public To cut the number of affordable income housing was simply not Minister Hazzard has said this for a robust public housing sector housing and other supports. These homes it was required to build, constructed at all. comprises 17,000 replacement in NSW. members may be affected by the Lend Lease used a loophole The above example comes from allowing them to claim affordable- dwellings and 6000 new ones The PSA wants NSW Government transfers to community housing. development of inner city land home conditions imposed on within 10 years. funds prioritised for additional Any changes for staff in the in London’s Elephant and Castle them for the development made it • Increasing the use of private public housing and for the proper Housing Contact Centre will also district that has been used as an unprofitable. rental assistance products by maintenance of stock. need to be understood. example for NSW to follow. 60 percent as an alternative to The London example illustrates The PSA is engaging with FACS social housing. The policy says that the Traditionally an area with a large the risks NSW faces in following and members on the implications Aboriginal Housing Office will amount of low-cost government the British model of public • New communities with mixed of the new policy. On 25 January continue to work closely with housing, the south London housing. social housing and private 2016, the PSA sent an email to all Aboriginal CHPs to maintain its housing. members in FACS with a link to the ongoing commitment to ensuring Millers Point redevelopment off to a • Transferring management of up new policy and asked for feedback. Aboriginal people in NSW have to 35 percent of social housing Issues raised included concerns equal access to, and choice in, rocky start to community housing providers about how the policy will affect affordable housing. A Georgian-era house sold as Despite an order from City of (this is to occur within 10 years), future employment such as possible part of the Millers Point sell- Sydney to stop work, Mr Adams with longer-term leases to be The NSW Land and Housing transfers to the community housing Corporation is responsible for the off has been gutted by its new continued. determined on a case‑by‑case sector and the need for recognition owner, who ignored heritage basis. ownership and management of The maximum fine for ignoring of the good work that staff in NSW Government social housing considerations and even council heritage orders such as these is • 3000 new social and affordable Housing NSW do now. assets and the PSA wants to demands he stop work. $1.1 million; Mr Adams was fined dwellings via the Social and On 4 February 2016 the PSA understand further how housing Lloyd Adams purchased a house a paltry $60,000. Affordable Housing Fund. requested a meeting with Paul developments and transfers will on Argyle Terrace formerly used Despite appeals from the In May 2009 Housing Ministers Vevers, the Deputy Secretary, FACS affect these members. to house low-income tenants. National Trust to end the sell-off agreed the community housing Southern Cluster Districts and He immediately began gutting until there are guarantees this sector should own and/or manage Again, the PSA will need to clarify Housing State-wide Services to any specific implications of the the home, including original will not happen again, homes at up to 35 percent of social housing consult on the new policy. features listed as “being of Millers Point continue to be sold. stock by July 2014. policy for these members once PSA staff and delegates met with implementation plans are clearer. exceptional significance”. It was claimed the community Mr Vevers on 11 February 2016. housing sector represents a responsive and client-focussed He advised: approach to social and affordable • There are around 140,000 housing provision. social housing dwellings and Privatisation found to The policy has reaffirmed the approximately 28,000 of those commitment to the 35 percent are currently managed by target but over a longer Community Housing providers entrench disadvantage timeframe. (CHPs) i.e. currently 20 percent of properties are CHP managed. In news that will come as no authors found the outsourcing The PSA is not convinced there surprise to our frontline members, of services to jobseekers has • To get to the 35 percent target will be better outcomes for a report has confirmed the biggest particularly affected those out of around 23,000 public housing tenants from a greater reliance on losers in the privatisation debate work for long stretches of time. community housing and private properties will be transferred to are society’s disadvantaged. While previously government- sector provision of social and CHP management. Grand Alibis: How declining public run agencies, such as the affordable housing. • The transfer program has sector capability affects services for Commonwealth Employment Rather, it is just a shift in links to the accelerated the disadvantaged is produced by Service, would work in tandem responsibility for managing those redevelopment of public the Centre for Policy Development. with other agencies, outsourced tenants from government to non- housing with 23,000 new The title comes from one of the jobseekers services are more likely government organisations. properties planned over 10 report’s criticisms of privatisation, to work in isolation. years; of these around 6000- The policy assumes that namely: Different privately run services expansion of housing for the 6500 will be new properties. "Blurred responsibility for were also blamed for rising most vulnerable must depend on • Personal Support Plans which service outcomes has led to the recidivism among former prisoners: an expansion of community and are proposed for ‘opportunity’ emergence of grand alibis where "Welfare providers, advocates private sector participation. group tenants who would no one organisation is held and independent bodies, such responsibilities to the private access public housing as a The PSA doubts the new policy accountable for service problems as the Victorian Ombudsman, sector, this accumulated transitional step would likely will make significant inroads into or entrenched failures". consistently highlight the knowledge is at risk. be contracted to providers with the full level of demand for public, importance of coordination between Other advantages of reversing expertise in transitions into The report says “Australia is facing social and affordable housing. different services, and call for the trend towards outsourcing study and work. a growing crisis of disadvantage” Currently there are around 60,000 failed by policymakers, government urgent investment in holistic and include keeping accountability households on the waiting list The changes may mean that and non-government bodies. preventative corrective services for public spending close to the in NSW and some households in Housing NSW staff have different targeted at the deeper and source – “ultimately, the buck Despite the neo-liberal zeal need are not on the waiting list. types of conversations with underlying causes of offending". stops with government” – and governments of all stripes clients and there would be new the effectiveness of the state’s Housing NSW has predicted by have dedicated to privatisation, While privatisation adherents claim work on housing relocations broad spread of services offered. 2021 more than half the demand the report found there is a the public sector is inefficient, which would likely involve for social housing will be from strong public expectation that the report’s authors point out a The report recommends Housing NSW staff and possibly, older people and people with a governments are responsible for variety of advantages the state governments: contractors. Selection of staff to significant disability. delivering social services. has over outsourcers, including “an • build public sector capability work on relocations would be via unparalleled and assured source of Homelessness remains an issue in It quotes an Essential poll, taken by resourcing government a proper recruitment process. applied expertise”. NSW and around a million low- to in September 2015, stating “82 departments to act as effective, moderate-income households It is not possible to estimate percent of respondents answered The report reads: “The persistent policy entrepreneurs across the country are in 'housing detailed impacts of the new policy that it was either very important accumulated institutional know- • ensure outsourcing passes a stress', paying more than 30 percent on housing staff at this point but or somewhat important that how that remains in federal Net Public Impact Test of their gross income on housing. reassignment of Housing NSW and state departments that government retain capability and • improve the evidence base by staff and some transfers to CHP have traditionally been oriented The latest Productivity skills for service delivery – with ensuring that the forthcoming providers are possible. towards service delivery should Commission report on the strongest views from those 35 Productivity Commission review not be undervalued or excluded.” Government Services shows FACS has agreed to ongoing and over”. of human services considers that the proportion of NSW consultation on the implications In the field of long-term However, the authors concede public sector capability to act on low‑income tenancies paying of the policy. The PSA noted that unemployment, the report’s that as governments shed disadvantage. more than 30 percent of gross consultation and discussions on

8 – Red Tape January–April 2016 LPI workers rally against sell-off push

More than 100 Land and Property “The PSA is yet to see or even Action from the PSA has Information (LPI) workers held hear of a proper business case, prevented two arms of Land a meeting before assembling cost benefit analysis or post sell and Property Information (LPI) outside the department’s Queen’s off evaluation that states the clear falling into the clutches of the Square building and marching advantages to the consumer of private sector. to Parliament House to protest government services being run against the proposed privatisation by private operators,” said PSA After threats of action from the of Titling and Registry Services. General Secretary Anne Gardiner. PSA the Department of Finance, Services and Innovation LPI held a number of staff briefings “A private operator will be driven announced on 11 February that to discuss the scoping study. by profit – why else would they the LPI’s Valuation Services and buy an enterprise? – which Whilst the PSA is pleased Information Sourcing arms will means higher fees for services Valuation Services and remain in government hands. Information Sourcing will no which will of course be passed This not only preserves a longer be considered part of down to the consumer. valuable government function, the scoping study, there is still “The security of land titles should it also saved a large number widespread concern about the remain in the hands of the of regional jobs in Bathurst, proposed privatisation of Titling Government not the private sector. where many of the LPI’s and Registry Services. “The Land Titles records underpin functions are performed. The PSA also has concerns at the the security of the financial Jobs such as these are vital to planned review of these units system of the state of NSW. help sustain smaller regional and how Titling and Registering “Currently, the Government centres. Services, Valuation Services and provides insurance and security of Information Sourcing will operate property titles. Photo credit: Amy Conley as separate units from July 2016. “But if LPI is sold to a private The PSA believes LPI should operator, individual owners may remain wholly in the hands of have to take out insurance to public servants who are impartial guard against unscrupulous and not profiteering from the property developers acquiring taxpayers of NSW. their land.” PSA ready to take on The LPI brings $100 million a year in revenue to NSW. Treasurer’s cutback agenda The PSA is ready to resist the Treasurer’s Medical assessments plan for even further cuts to the NSW kept in check public service. Talking at the Sydney Institute, couple of tiny crown trusts with was made about the spiralling The PSA has successfully lobbied employee is suffering from a a right-wing think tank run small responsibilities. costs of contractors. the Public Service Commission non-work related injury or health by conservative commentator Ms Berejiklian’s planned ‘savings’ “She failed to tell you that in the (PSC) to improve its changes to condition which is impacting on Gerard Henderson, Ms Berejiklian follow on from $8 billion in cuts last six months, contractors have medical assessments for non- their ability to perform their role. announced her intention to shrink and 15,000 job losses when now- cost $303 million in Transport,” work related medical conditions At the end of this assessment, the size of the public sector. premier Mike Baird was Treasurer. Ms Gardiner said. and injuries. there is the possibility an While conceding infrastructure Speaking on ABC Newcastle, PSA “If we are going to have a proper Based on the issues the PSA employee may be medically growth – a function of the state General Secretary Anne Gardiner debate about this, let’s debate on brought to the PSC’s attention, the retired. – is one of the things driving the says that while the Treasurer the facts. PSC made some improvements to NSW economy, Ms Berejiklian To date this process has been is talking about job cuts, she is “Let’s not have one side of the claimed “it is not necessary to the proposed guidelines, such as: managed by a sector-wide policy. actually talking about putting argument. grow the public service in order more services into the private • more stringent requirements However, in draft guidelines “This is the way this to stimulate employment growth”. sector’s hands. surrounding consultation issued on 11 November 2015 government has been working; The treasurer says she is with an employee prior to the PSC proposed this policy be “I worked as a public servant it’s smoke and mirrors.” determining if a medical devolved to the agency. targeting entities such as for NSW for nearly 30 years, departments, agencies, state- Ms Gardiner added if cuts assessment is necessary Individual agencies will therefore and in that time I have never owned corporations boards, to the public sector in NSW • mandatory steps that an agency be able to determine their own experienced a more duplicitous committees and trusts, with continued, the public will “turn must undertake when making procedures surrounding medical government,” she said. accompanying cuts to public around and the things they a decision about an employee’s assessments. “They say one thing and they sector jobs. value will be gone”. medical retirement While the PSA welcomes the really mean another.” “It is an opportunity for This is why the PSA is determined • the obligation on an agency to changes, some of the union’s Ms Gardiner added that the State governments to generate more to ‘out’ the Government on its investigate if alternative duties concerns remain, including issues Government is “demonising public services and infrastructure from privatisation agenda. surrounding the devolution of the servants” to get the public onside are available in the instance limited resources,” she added, medical assessments policy. for its privatisation plans. the employee’s medical advice confusingly. states that alternative duties Although Ms Berejiklian was However, while talking big are an option. boasting to the Sydney Institute on job cuts in “870 separate that her job cuts program while Under the Government Sector government entities” to her Transport Minister had cut Employment Act 2013 (NSW), unquestioning audience of free- costs and increased services, Ms agencies are entitled to direct market zealots, the Treasurer Gardiner pointed out no mention employees to undertake a medical only specifically mentioned a assessment if they believe an

January–April 2016 Red Tape – 9 JUDGEMENTS Access to kids part of roster decision: FWC The Fair Work Commission has found an the job or he quit after refusing a employer must take family considerations compromised offer. into account when rostering employees. Deputy President Karen Bartel found PSA member wins compo case The Commission found in favour of that under the retail award, the employer The Court of Appeal last year handed The employer then appealed this decision divorced father Jaymon Hocking, whose had not complied with its obligations down a very important decision in favour to the Full Bench of the Industrial employer, an Adelaide tackle shop, altered to consider its workers’ positions when of the PSA and all injured workers in NSW. Relations Commission, which overturned the roster he had worked to for three years. drawing up new rosters. For the last two years, the PSA has been the original ruling. The new roster required Hocking, a full- The roster period was also found to fighting to have an injured Correctional The PSA then decided to appeal this ruling time permanent employee, to begin exceed limitations set by the award. Officer returned to his previous of the Full Bench to the Court of Appeal. working on days he had access to the Deputy President Karen Bartel also employment under Section 240 and 241 Your union made the decision to appeal children from his previous relationship. found that two different accounts of of the Workers Compensation Act 1987. as the matter had implications for all our Attempts failed to amend his roster to get how Hocking left the company had no This member was injured undertaking members and because it fitted within two Sundays a month with his children. bearing on her decision, stating: “In his duties and as a consequence was its broader strategy of leading the fight some circumstances a resignation can be Depending on which testimony one medically dismissed and subsequently against the unfair aspects of the workers deemed to be a dismissal.” believes, Hocking was told to leave received a payout. compensation legislation. The injured Correctional Officer eventually On December 4 2015, the Court of Appeal recovered and wished to be reinstated to set aside the ruling of the Full Bench and FWC decide on post- his previous employment. court costs were awarded to the PSA. The PSA took his case to the Industrial The only avenue of appeal now within the Relations Commission where the court system is to the High Court. privatisation coverage Commissioner found in favour of our Home Care members employed by In July 2015 with the details of the member. Australian Unity have yet to learn if privatisation unconfirmed but looming, their federal union– CPSU (SPSF) will the CPSU submitted an application to the represent them under their new working Fair Work Commission (FWC) to enrol and arrangements. represent persons employed to perform the General Training Courses In February 2016 the Home Care Service work of the HCS, whomever the employer. of New South Wales (HCS) was sold by the The matter has been heard across four NSW Government to a private consortium, days in February and March before the SYDNEY METRO REGIONAL TRAINING Australian Unity. PSA members employed FWC, with a decision reserved at the time Dealing with Restructures – Friday 29 April Role of the Delegate (Port Macquarie) by HCS had their employment forcibly of press. Public Speaking – Tuesday 3 May – Tuesday 3 May transferred to the new employer, and the In the interim, the PSA continues Dealing with Member Issues Role of the Delegate (Wagga) PSA successfully fought to ensure their to represent its HCS members with – Tuesday 31 May – Tuesday 10 May terms and conditions of employment Australian Unity. transferred with them. Dealing with Restructures Dealing with Member Issues (Wollongong) – Wednesday 15 June – Tuesday 17 May Dealing with Workplace Bullying – Tuesday 21 June Role of the Delegate – Tuesday 28 June Role of the Delegate – Wednesday 29 June

COURSE OUTLINES: Role of the Delegate INFORMATION TWO-DAY COURSE: discusses the role These courses are available at no charge of the delegate and active members: to PSA/CPSU members. what delegates do, delegate protections, Non-members wishing to attend Sunday organising skills, recruitment, working our training will need to submit a with issues, union values and membership application first. May 1st 2016 involvement. Any member can learn from Participants are responsible for their this course and is welcome to apply. own travel and other costs incurred in Belmore Park Dealing with Member Issues attending training. Assemble at Belmore Park (Corner ONE-DAY COURSE: for delegates who Venues of Railway Square and Eddy Avenue) want to develop their ability to assist All training courses are held at PSA Marching to Victoria Park. members with individual workplace issues. House, The course will look at how to deal with Rides 160 Clarence St, Sydney – unless 11 am individual issues by using the problem otherwise stated. Food and drinks assembly for solving framework, and by developing 11.30am March advocacy skills. NB: Lunch is not provided. Tearoom Entertainment facilities available with tea, coffee, fridge Advanced Delegates (NEW) and microwave. ONE-DAY COURSE: for delegates who Special needs have completed the Role of the Delegate course and wish to further develop If you have a disability and/or special their skills as a delegate. It will look needs, please contact the PSA training at advanced recruitment techniques, staff when you enrol. analysing issues, campaign skills and Special leave for trade union training dealing with member issues. Most state public sector members are SYDNEY Dealing with Bullying in the Workplace entitled to paid Trade Union Training ONE-DAY COURSE: designed to assist Leave. Your delegate/organiser will be MAY DAY MARCH members and delegates in dealing with able to provide the details. bullying and harassment at work. These courses are available at no charge & Family Fun Day to PSA/CPSU members. @SydneyMayDay Non-members wishing to attend our training will need to submit a www.facebook.com/sydneymayday/ membership application first. RSVP at [email protected] CONTACT BY EMAIL: [email protected]

10 – Red Tape January–April 2016 TAFE members send a resounding message PSA members have sent a strong message to Committee hears about TAFE’s demise TAFENSW over its refusal to walk away from its proposal to slash working conditions. under Smart and Skilled

TAFE has proposed, and refused to A NSW Upper House committee report on TAFE shows the dismantling of back away from, a range of slashed an old funding set-up, in favour of a market-based model, is favoured by conditions, including increasing the ideologues on Macquarie Street. weekly hours of work for no extra pay, the ability to convert full time And it is not pretty. a drop in TAFE enrolments, cuts qualification in Australia, and yet positions to part year positions, the The Committee, chaired by Christian to staffing levels, a reduction in that same qualification prevented introduction of broken shifts, and Democrat Paul Green and dominated course delivery hours, a shift to them from accessing subsidies by a new classification structure with by government members, is largely online learning, and the reduction which they could retrain in their no protection from forced pay cuts. supportive of the Smart and or deletion of courses and support own field or in another field.” In light of the organisation’s Skilled program, although there are services for disadvantaged learners.” Even providers of privately run refusal to listen to members, the Full results dissenting opinions from its Labor The committee took its only courses run in competition with PSA held a secret ballot from 24 Q1. An unlimited number of and Greens members. significant stand on the issue TAFE are unhappy. March to 1 April, which is the first stoppages of work period of However, even the Coalition and of the IT system SALM/EBS, The committee reports concerns step to strike action if required. up to and including 1 hour? Christian Democrat members put recommending it be scrapped in from providers about “the lack Delegates from across the state 94% Yes! their names to many criticisms of the face of overwhelming evidence of transparency around the campaigned to encourage their Q2. An unlimited number of the destruction of TAFE. of the problems with the system, assessment methodology used fellow members to participate and the inability of the Minister stoppages of work for periods of “Since the introduction of Smart by State Training Services”, which in the secret ballot, as Fair Work or TAFE Management to give more than 1 hour and up to and and Skilled, TAFE has moved from is the organisation tasked with requires at least 50 percent of assurances of fixing it. including 24 hours? 92% Yes! a situation where it receives all of determining which colleges can members to vote in the ballot to its funding directly from the NSW Not surprisingly, a drop in funds has receive government funding. allow protected Industrial Action Q3. An unlimited number of Government and student fees had a bigger impact on the courses Of the 747 providers lodging to take place. bans on working unpaid hours beyond what can be accrued and charges, to a situation where that are more expensive to run. applications for Smart and Skilled Due to the hard work and using the Flextime Agreement? TAFE has to compete for some “The committee heard from contracts between 30 June and dedication of PSA members 97% Yes! of its public funding with private several stakeholders who believe 8 August 2014, 338 providers and staff, this figure was easily providers,” reads the General that the methodology developed received contracts. surpassed with over 62percent of Q4. An unlimited number of Purpose Standing Committee’s by IPART has resulted in some David Bare, the executive director members voting in the ballot, an bans on meetings with TAFE report on vocational training. qualifications being priced too low NSW of Housing Industry Association, unusually strong turnout for these NSW management? 90% Yes! “Given that the total amount of to cover the costs of delivering was quoted in the report saying, “the types of ballots. Q5. An unlimited number of the course,” states the report. results that came out was that most bans on performing student government funding for vocational In addition to this an of the key industry groups did not enrolment function? 87% Yes! education and training has remained “Ms Marie Larkings, associate overwhelming majority of about the same, TAFE funding has in director and general manager, get funding that had been delivering Q6. An unlimited number of members – 93 percent – approved effect been reduced because some Teaching and Learning at TAFE NSW training and apprenticeships, or have bans on using the SAP system, every action proposed. of the contestable funding now goes Hunter Institute, observed that, ‘in had an apprenticeship scheme or a including procurement/ Initial discussions after the to private providers.” some of our more high-cost delivery GTO [Group Training Organisation], receipting/ordering and successful ballot indicate that the areas it has been a challenge to for 40-odd years. shopping? 90% Yes! The report’s authors conceded result has already spurred TAFE “a large number of stakeholders be able to deliver the quality of “There were only two private Q7. An unlimited number of management to amend some of connected with TAFE NSW told the training required for our industry’.” [Registered Training Organisations] bans or limitations upon: their claims, although there is still committee that they are extremely The new regime, with its that got funding and we had not answering or making telephone some way to go in order to reach concerned about the adverse excessive costs and confusing heard of either of them.” an acceptable Agreement. calls; and/or not responding to impacts that the new Smart and regulations, is excluding many Other issues raised in the report voicemails; and/or sending or One thing is for sure, members Skilled environment has had on people, particularly from lower- include a dramatic slump in the responding to emails? 89% Yes! have shown that they are willing the institution. socio-economic and non-English- number of options available to Q8. An unlimited number of to stand together in solidarity to “The committee heard evidence speaking backgrounds. potential students in regional and bans on working more than defend their working conditions. that the impacts of the changed “Several stakeholders pointed rural NSW. the contracted daily hours, or funding environment are being felt out the ‘catch-22’ situation in However, regional, rural and remote working outside the standard on the ground in a number of ways, which some migrants found issues are callously dismissed by pattern of ordinary hours or part including the diversion of course themselves, whereby they cannot the report as ‘thin markets’. time arrangements? 96% Yes! fees to administrative overheads, gain recognition for their overseas Assessments uncover reform flaws The Audit Office has found NSW public sector reform could be improved. The office’s report into the way reporting on reform benefits resources or utilise existing The report found “managerial offices and positions without the Public Service Commission achieved to date and whether resources, removing them from capacity (among team leaders consultation, “people do worry (PSC) is implementing public anticipated”. business as usual activities, to and directors in particular) is about the degree of control they sector management reforms is The Audit Office also “identified help implement the reforms in the uneven and relatively immature will have over their movement”. mainly positive, finding the PSC gaps in strategic human required timeframes.” in some places”. The report urges the PSC to act developed a sound evidence resource leadership capabilities”, Instead the officers recommend With the privatisation agenda on employees’ better interests and base for implementing reforms finding “only 65 percent of providing the public sector with further reducing the collective “seek more information, support and considered best practice senior executives were ranked more help. skills set of the NSW public and consultation from their leaders approaches in other jurisdictions. competent or above in strategic service, it is possible these to manage anxiety and uncertainty “It is important that agencies However, it found flaws in the human resource leadership”. problems will only get worse. with key elements of change”. receive adequate support and tracking process. The Audit Office also found the While admitting they generally The PSA will remain vigilant to guidance to help them implement “Few reform benefits are tracked PSC may have underestimated the had not seen any benefits from ensure that members receive fair, the reforms,” read the report. “This and there are no plans to evaluate scale of the reforms. reform, employees were reported equitable and consistent treatment. assists agencies to implement the outcomes,” read the report. “Some agencies did not have the to be “generally positive about the The PSA plans to consult with the reforms in a way that is consistent “The reform program is part- initial capacity or capabilities to intentions of reform and could PSC to evaluate the suite of reforms with the reform intent.” way through a three year effectively implement the reforms. theoretically see how this would fairly and assess what impact they implementation,” it goes on to “The initially proposed capability Even another report commissioned benefit them in their roles”. have had on union members. say. “The PSC, however, has not assessment would have informed by the PSC itself found the sector’s The report found public service established a method or timeframe the PSC when developing its reform process has a number of employees were “particularly keen to evaluate whether the reforms, approaches and enabled agencies management flaws. on mobility”. once fully implemented, achieved to take action early to address The report was compiled by However, as the PSA is what they set out to.” resource and skills gaps. auditing firm Deloitte, which continually pointing out to The report’s recommendations “Agencies reported that they interviewed 120 staff members in the State Government when include one to “increase public either had to bid for extra FACS, Justice, DPE, DP and DTIRIS. employees are shifted between

January–April 2016 Red Tape – 11 FROM ABROAD Lesson from Boston PSA director Maria Cirillo received a global view of the fight for workers’ rights

Last year I was privileged to have organise and share our resources won the Unions NSW scholarship equitably across all members. We to the Harvard University Trade must be innovative and gain the Union Program. knowledge needed to develop The program runs for six weeks the union’s strategic capacity and and is designed to give unionists resilience. the tools and knowledge needed I’m excited and proud to be a part to survive and build strength in of a union which is already on an industrially hostile operating that track. environment. In late 2012, the PSA membership There were 41 participants this voted for change in its leadership. year, with union leaders coming Since then the PSA has been from Bulgaria, Norway, Germany, transforming the way it works Canada, and across the USA. and the way its resources are It was an unforgettable organised. experience where I learnt that The election in 2011 of a Maria is third from the left in the middle row. the challenges the PSA faces conservative State Government today are faced by unions across led to the powers of the NSW the globe. Attacks on job security, Industrial Relations Commission wages and conditions, combined being undermined and numerous with perpetually declining legislative attacks on the rights membership and the questioning of our relevance are common of members. This meant we themes for us all. needed to become a union that could rely on an active and strong Our data tells us that these now ensure that all members, that while there is more to do, we Through the use of contemporary union membership to advance reforms are working. irrespective of who or where they are well on our way. and historical union case studies, our causes while also responding combined with knowledge shared PSA membership had been are, receive an equal service. The PSA’s vision statement is: “To to the increasing number of by renowned academics and declining since 2004 and the PSA The PSA is now organised to be an active, member driven union individual members’ issues. that successfully asserts members’ leaders from the social justice reforms have put that into reverse. realise this vision. movement, the course emphasised To meet those needs the new Union service quality and access interests and advances the value New approaches are now needed the importance of accountability, leadership team changed how for members was inequitable and of public services for the people of to extend the reach of our change. New South Wales.” knowledge and collaboration. Its we communicate with members could depend on who you knew. key message was that unions must and the public, created a The distribution of the union’s This is an important goal for the change. We must be inclusive Member Support Centre (MSC) staffing resources was the same. PSA. The insights and knowledge and accessible to a broad range and established the Organising This has also changed. The MSC gained from the Harvard Trade of people and ideas. We must Directorate. and internal accountabilities Union Program have shown me ILO attacks British Judge's death leaves US restrictions on unions changes in limbo An attack on unions in Britain has been condemned by the International The death of a conservative judge However, since the decision, bargaining without having to Labour Organisation. on the American Supreme Court Justice Scalia has died, leaving spend a cent towards the fight. may have thrown a lifeline to some the court in a four-four split Operating on reduced budgets, The Conservative Government- of the country’s biggest unions. between conservative and unions would be then bargaining dominated House of Commons has A decision by two conservative progressive judges. for the rights of members who passed a law allowing contract judges in the highest court in Any appointment by President have deserted them, unless they workers to be brought in to replace the United States had put at risk Obama is likely to be a more adopt the New Zealand example, employees on strike and a widened funding for some of the country’s floated in the previous issue of progressive judge. definition of “essential services”. biggest unions. Red Tape, of representing only If the Republican-dominated The ILO has asked the Government Teachers refusing to join unions members in arbitration matters. Congress stymies the President’s to review the law, which is now in many parts of the United States There is a rising movement to before the upper chamber, the are charged fees for collective choice of judge, tied results are privatise all American schooling, House of Lords. bargaining done on their behalf. decided in favour of the status quo. with many supporters advocating “The Committee requests the The fee is calculated to be the Unions in the US, already under a voucher system. Government to review this proposal price of union membership, minus fire in states such as Wisconsin, A weaker teachers’ union with the social partners concerned any money spent on political fear the changes will erode their movement would be a dream come bearing in mind its general activities such as supporting the financial base and provide a true for privatisation and charter- consideration that the use of striker Democratic Party. platform for ‘free-loading’ teachers school advocates eager to further replacements should be limited A number of teachers appealed to to win the benefits of collective gut American public education. to industrial action in essential the country’s highest judicial body, services,” reads the report. the Supreme Court, claiming the The report also opposes Britain’s fees should not be deducted from plans to introduce a threshold of 50 their earnings. percent turnout for industrial action Conservative Justices John ballots. Roberts, Anthony Kennedy and For some public sector services, it Antonin Scalia indicated they requires at least 40 percent of all may overturn a 1977 ruling that eligible voters vote in favour of validated the charges. action. The nine-member court had The ILO has also requested further two other conservative justices, information on changes to the way Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito, The death of Antonin Scalia (seated, second from left) union members pay dues, which will who may have joined the three in has dealt a blow to proposals to limit fundraising for affect the fundraising arm of the reversing the 1977 decision. unions in the USA. opposition Labour Party.

12 – Red Tape January–April 2016 In Brief

PSA gets better tools More reasons Simply the In February the PSA launched Connect, its first ever intranet. This will help the PSA to join your best better operate and serve its members. The name ‘Connect’ was chosen by PSA staff. We’ve known for a long time that our General Secretary Anne Gardiner is pictured here taking staff through the portal. union members are simply the best; now it’s Got workmates still not sure about joining official. the PSA? PSA members earned praise from FACS at Let them know as well as representation the Department’s recent Simply the Best on work conditions, all members of ACTU- awards night, receiving their gongs from affiliated unions are eligible for discounts Minister Brad Hazzard. on a variety of goods and services. Among the winners was Cathy Leroy, from Australian Unions’ Member Benefits the Blacktown Housing office managing scheme means Australian unionists, more than 450 tenancies, who won an including PSA members, can get discounts Individual Excellence Award for regularly on items as varied as movie tickets, wine providing expert advice and support in and financial services. her role. To see what is available, go to australianunions.org.au/member_benefits Like minds make the grade for PSA Three members of the PSA staff, Industrial The LPAB’s diploma in law qualifies a Advocate Andrew Boulton, Employee person academically for admission as a Money tight for NDIS Relations and Governance Officer Ciaran lawyer in NSW. Cullen and acting Director Strategy A rigorous legal education teaches The so-called second tier of people Further pressure on the NDIS is being and Policy, Jessica D’Arienzo, recently discipline, negotiation, dispute requiring help from the National Disability exerted by the number of children graduated in the same class at the Legal resolution, leadership and analysis. Insurance Scheme (NDIS) may miss out on diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. Profession Admission Board (LPAB). Congratulations to all. funding due to a lack of available finance. The scheme architects have underestimated The Australian reported on 4 January this the number of children diagnosed with year that the NDIS is at risk of failing ASD-related conditions – some of which can those people with disabilities who did not require 20 hours’ therapy a week under the require individual support packages. early-intervention program recommended to The Productivity Commission estimates minimise the disorder’s affects. there are four million Australians fitting into this category. W.G. McNally Jones Staff LAWYERS Proud to be lawyers for the PSA

Tattersalls Building, Level 10, CALL FOR NOMINATIONS 179 Elizabeth Street Public Service Association of NSW Sydney NSW 2000 SHERIFFS OFFICERS The Octagon, Level 1, Suite F (Vocational Branch) Advisory Group 110 George Street Elections 2016 Parramatta NSW 2150

Parramatta Office By Appointment Only Nominations are called for 7 Executive • 5th floor Inquiry counter PSA House Committee Members for the above 160 Clarence Street Sydney or from Phone: 02 9233 4744 Fax: 02 9223 7859 group. Each nomination must be Regional Offices. seconded by two other persons who are Nominations must be addressed to: from the same group as the nominee. We have accredited specialists in Personal Injury, Employment The Deputy Returning 0fficer Nominees, nominators and seconders and Industrial Law. We can also provide legal advice and Public Service Association of NSW must be financial members of the representation to all PSA members on: Association as at 15 April 2016. Nominations may be submitted: Litigation | Wills | Conveyancing If a ballot is required, candidates who • by post: GPO Box 3365 Sydney NSW 2001 Family law including de facto relationships wish to have a profile sent with the ballot material should provide a brief • by email: [email protected] Police matters | Discrimination | Deceased estates statement of 300 words or less stating • hand delivered to the PSA Inquiry Superannuation & disability claims how they will best represent members’ counter on interests. Space is provided for this Level 5, 160 Clarence Street, Sydney General legal advice purpose on the nomination form. • by fax: (02) 9262 1623 Nominations must be on the prescribed so as to reach the PSA Head Office no As members of the PSA you are entitled to the first consultation form (or facsimile of it). later than 5pm Friday, 20 May 2016. free of charge. To make an appointment, call 9233 4744 and Nomination Forms are available at: quote your PSA membership number. G R BENSLEY • PSA website www.psa.asn.au and click Deputy Returning Officer Note: Work related matters must be referred to PSA industrial staff in on RESOURCES/Election Nomination the first instance. They will advise if a lawyer is required. Forms.

January–April 2016 Red Tape – 13 PSA members reach for the sky

Two PSA members can be excused for stargazing at work. Top left: The MOST in action Top right: Duncan Campbell- Wilson (left) and David Temby at Duncan Campbell-Wilson specialised equipment, used to arm in a cross shape – each arm the facility. and David Temby work at the approximately one mile in length. manufacture and maintain the Right: The notice board at MOST. Molonglo Observatory Synthesis electronic and other components The East-West arm was split into Telescope (MOST) radio telescope. of the MOST. 88 individual elements to form Operated by the School of They also maintain the huge the current telescope. Physics of the University of amount of computing and The telescope feeds a system Sydney, the facility is located communications equipment used of 7744 circular dipoles that 26km east of Queanbeyan near to operate the array and to manage collects the signal and feeds 176 the Molonglo River. data flow to and from the MOST. preamplifiers and 88 IF amplifiers. The two are dedicated to the The telescope is steered by Temby and Campbell-Wilson also Letters highly technical operation of mechanical rotation of the host and supervise engineering I was delighted to read in the most recent issue of Red Tape the an incredibly complex piece of cylindrical paraboloids about their students. views of Professor Ron McCallum on a number of industrial issues astronomical equipment. long axis, and by phasing the feed facing unions, presently, and in the future. These views include the Campbell-Wilson has worked at The site is remotely located elements along the arms. possibility of abolishing common rule awards. and members must deal with the MOST for the past 29 years, The telescope’s main research Common rule awards in effect result in any union negotiated pay the risks of working alone and and reckons 2016 will be his last project was the Sydney University rises which apply to a particular worker employed in an industry, or before retirement. winter temperatures that can get Molonglo Sky Survey (SUMSS), a a group of workers, to apply to everyone irrespective of whether they Temby is a relative newby, with to 10 below zero. sensitive radio imaging survey of belong to a union or not. the southern sky. three years at MOST. The MOST consists of two Ron McCallum suggests that in future unions should seriously On site are a number of cylindrical paraboloids: a North- consider negotiating pay increases, either in awards, or enterprise workshops, containing highly South arm and an East-West agreements, which apply only to members of the union which has successfully negotiated the new award/agreement. In other words, if you belong to the union you share in the benefits from your membership. If you don’t belong to the union, tough. Naturally, if the common rule was abolished, non-union members Southern Cross University would have a great incentive to join a union. When the Greiner Government came to power in 1988, the Government attempted to introduce non-union enterprise finalises enterprise agreement agreements. In the NSW Public Service this strategy was generally a dismal failure. In Government Agencies, employees were given a choice to negotiate their own agreement, or have a union negotiate The Enterprise Agreement for PSA members at Southern Cross University has on their behalf. My own experience at that time was that there were taken nearly three years to negotiate and finalise. very few non-union members who were prepared to negotiate their own agreement and strongly supported union involvement. Union While going through a difficult improvements are significant, career development and not just members firmly backed their union in this role. This resulted in quite financial period, the university has especially where the university on the job training. Ensuring a few non-union members joining the union at this time. finally reached an agreement with has been under significant Paid Parental leave of 26 weeks At the present time, when union membership is at its lowest ebb, an the staff unions. financial pressures. is available to any primary carer, increasing number of workers are very happy to benefit from wage During the first year of Improved benefits include; regardless of gender. increases negotiated by a union, without their participation. Strong consultation provisions negotiations, the university reduced • One scholarship each year I strongly believe it is about time that unions finally tackled this its staff numbers by 10 percent to have been maintained as has for a university professional issue head on. deal with revenue shortfalls. redundancy provisions of up to staff member to undertake After all, this is all about industrial fairness. If union members pay 68 weeks. Excellent protections This caused considerable stress an undergraduate degree. their union dues which are then used for their benefit, why should for staff regarding managing for PSA members and impacted Their course fees will be those benefits flow on to non-union members who get the benefit poor performance or misconduct the negotiations. for nothing? funded until completion by has remains with strong review The university paid an the university for professional procedures in place. At a time when workers’ rights and benefits are under continuous administrative pay rise of only two staff to study part-time for any attack by employer groups, it is about time the whole union The final approval of the percent during 2014, with another degree at the university. movement went on the offensive to regain some of the ground that Enterprise Agreement has seen a two percent due at the end of has been lost, by adopting new strategies. What Ron McCallum has • A bank of six weeks of sick leave small problem with the Fair Work December 2015. suggested is a positive way forward. in reserve as staff transfer to Commission which is unable to This effectively provides no pay a system of sick leave which approve the Agreement due to an Terry Hannan rises in 2015 for PSA members. accumulates from year to year. anomaly with the original Notice Terry is a formidable former PSA staff member. The final pay rises for members Previously staff received 30 days’ of Representation sent to staff over the next three years – 2.75 sick leave in any one year with an three years ago. percent in 2016, 3.75 percent in additional 30 days on approval This will need to be resolved by Correction 2017, and 3.5 percent in 2018 – by the Vice Chancellor. Sick leave re-issuing the notice and going to Contrary to our story last issue, the Valuer General himself cannot are more positive. is now 15 days per year, which ballot again. employ any staff and valuers were removed from the Office of the This is without any loss in accumulates from year to year Valuer General into LPI many years ago, resulting in most valuations conditions and a range of with an additional 10 days of being outsourced to contract valuers, including for the determination improvements. carer’s leave each year. of compensation following compulsory acquisition of land. Universities have some of the best • A staff development fund for The acquiring authority was still in negotiations with the Alexandria conditions in NSW so any small professional staff to help with landfill landholders, which was the cause of delays

14 – Red Tape January–April 2016 PSA/CPSU DIRECTORY WOMEN’S COUNCIL COMMITTEE PSA EXECUTIVE All women members of the Association are members of the Women’s Council. Nominations are called for positions of delegate on the Women’s Council Anne Gardiner, General Secretary Committee. Each nomination must be seconded by two other persons who are from the same group and electorate as the nominee. Nominees, nominators Steve Turner, and seconders must be financial members of the Association as at 15 April 2016. The Call for Nomination is for the following number of delegates from Assistant General Secretary the electorates listed below: Sue Walsh, President ELECTORATE 1 (2 delegates) Office of Liquor, Gaming & Racing, NSW Pillar - Superannuation Administration Corp Cassandra Coleman, EDUCATION Office of The Director of Public Prosecutions Transgrid Rural Fire Service, NSW Urban Growth NSW Senior Vice President (1 position reserved for school education) State Emergency Service Waste Assets Management Corporation Wendy Hurry, Vice President Aboriginal Affairs NSW State Library of NSW Water NSW Board of Studies, Teaching & Educational Nicole Jess, Vice President Sydney Opera House PREMIER & CABINET Standards NSW SYDNEY Early Childhood Education & Care ELECTORATE 6 (1 delegate) Destination NSW Independent Pricing & Reg Tribunal of NSW GPO Box 3365 Education, Dept of FINANCE, SERVICE AND INNOVATION NSW Electoral Commission 160 Clarence Street Corporate Services, DFSI ELECTORATE 2 (1 delegate) Office of Sport SYDNEY 2001 Finance & Services, Dept. of - LPI NON PUBLIC SECTOR Ombudsman NSW Finance & Services, Dept. of - Office of State Phone: 1300 772 679 External to Government Sector Police Integrity Commission Revenue Facsimile: (02) 9262 1623 Premier & Cabinet, Dept. of Audit Office of NSW Finance Services & Innovation-Corporate Membership changes: ICAC - Indep. Comm. Against Corruption Services/Procurement Public Service Commission 1300 772 679 Judicial Commission of NSW Government Property NSW Sydney Olympic Park Authority Parliament of NSW Venues NSW Red Tape: 1300 772 679 icare Parliamentary Counsel’s Office HEALTH Email: [email protected] icare - Dust Diseases Authority S A S Trustee Corporation icare - Lifetime Care & Support Authority Health Care Complaints Commission Distribution of publications: Other National System Employees Land & Property Management Authority Health, NSW Ministry of 1300 772 679 Aboriginal Land Council NSW NSW Self Insurance Corporation Medical Council of NSW Website: www.psa.asn.au Australian Health Practitioner Reg. Agency NSW Workers Compensation Commission Women NSW CENTRAL WEST REGION Coal Services Pty Ltd Professional Standards Councils, Office of the TREASURY Employed Solicitors 2/107 Bentinck Street, Safework NSW FSS Trustee Corporation NSW Lotteries Industrial Relations Commission of NSW BATHURST 2795 Service & Digital Innovation Residual Business Management Corp Service NSW Long Service Corporation Phone: 1300 772 679 ELECTORATE 3 (1 delegate) Servicefirst NSW Treasury - Office of Financial Mgmt CENTRAL COAST-HUNTER REGION RURAL AND REMOTE AREAS SIRA Suite 3, Level 1, SIRA - Motor Accidents Authority Members residing in areas defined as rural Nominations must be on the prescribed Hunter Unions Building State Records Authority and remote by the Australian Standard form (or facsimile of it). 406 King Street Geographical Classification - Remoteness Area NSW Fair Trading Nomination Forms are available at: NEWCASTLE WEST 2302 (ASGC-RA) NSW Public Works • PSA website www.psa.asn.au and click on RA3: Outer Regional Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority Phone: 1300 772 679 RESOURCES/Election Nomination Forms. RA4: Remote Teacher Housing Authority NORTHERN REGION • 5th floor Inquiry counter PSA House 160 RA5: Very Remote 2/133 Keen Street, LISMORE 2480 ELECTORATE 7 (1 delegate) Clarence Street Sydney or from Regional For information about the ASGC -RA of UNIVERSITIES Offices. PO Box 818 a location you can search the map on the TAFE Nominations must be addressed to: Phone: 1300 772 679 website at: www.doctorconnect.gov.au/ The Deputy Returning 0fficer internet/otd/publishing.nsf/content/locator ELECTORATE 8 (1 delegate) NORTH WESTERN REGION Public Service Association of NSW TRANSPORT Shop 14 The Atrium Shopping Centre ELECTORATE 4 (2 delegates) Nominations may be submitted: 345 Peel Street, TAMWORTH FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES Independent Transport Safety Regulator • by post: National Rail Safety Regulator, Office of the GPO Box 3365 PO Box 682, TAMWORTH 2340 Aboriginal Housing Office Sydney NSW 2001 Ageing, Disability & Home Care Roads & Maritime Services Phone: 1300 772 679 • by email: [email protected] Community Services Transport For NSW • hand delivered to the PSA Inquiry counter SOUTH EASTERN REGION Corporate Services, Business Services PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT on Level 5, 160 Clarence Street, Sydney Suite 13, 104 Crown Street Family & Community Services (Central Office) Centennial Park & Moore Pk Trust • by fax: (02) 9262 1623 PO Box 986 Home Care Service of NSW Environment And Heritage, Office of WOLLONGONG 2520 Housing NSW Environment Protection Authority so as to reach the PSA Head Office no later than 5pm Friday, 20 May 2016. Phone: 1300 772 679 Multicultural NSW Jenolan Caves Reserve Trust NSW Land And Housing Corporation Local Government, Division of If there is a ballot, candidates who wish to SOUTH WESTERN REGION have a profile sent with the ballot material Office of Communities - Corporate Services Lord Howe Island Board should provide a brief statement of 300 words Suite 2, 27 Forsyth Street Natural Resources Commission Office of The Children’s Guardian or less stating how they will best represent PO Box 649 Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre Planning And Environment, Dept. of members’ interests. Space is provided for this WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 The NSW Commission for Children & Young People Royal Botanic Gardens And Domain Trust purpose on the nomination form. Phone: 1300 772 679 Youth NSW Sydney Living Museums Taronga Conservation Society Australia G R BENSLEY COMMUNITY & PUBLIC ELECTORATE 5 (2 delegates) Western Sydney Parklands Trust Deputy Returning Officer SECTOR UNION (SPSF GROUP) JUSTICE INDUSTRY, SKILLS & REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Karen Batt Art Gallery of NSW DPI Water National Secretary Arts NSW Local Land Services Level 1, PSA House Australian Museum Marine Parks Authority 160 Clarence Street Corrective Services NSW Mine Subsidence Board Red Tape SYDNEY, NSW 2000 Editorial Production: Fire And Rescue NSW NSW Food Authority PSA Communications Unit Phone: (02) 9299 5655 Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority Primary Industries, Dept. of Design: Go Media Design Fax: (02) 9299 7181 Information & Privacy Commission Primary Industries, Dept. of - Crown Lands Phone (02) 9319 6066 website: www.cpsu-spsf.asn.au Justice, Dept. of Primary Industries, Dept. of - Soil Conservation Printer: Hannan Print Phone (02) 9353 0000 Justice, Dept. of - Ex MPES COMMUNITY & PUBLIC SECTOR Rural Assistance Authority Enquiries: PSA Communication Unit Justice, Dept. of - Registry of Births Deaths & State Training Services 1300 772 679 UNION (SPSF GROUP NSW BRANCH) Marriage Trade & Investment, Regional Infrastructure & Managing Editor: Sue Walsh, Branch President Justice, Dept. of-Crown Solicitor’s Office Services, Dept Ann Gardiner, General Secretary John Cahill, Branch Secretary Juvenile Justice NSW ELECTORATE 9 (1 delegate) Issue Editors: Steve Turner, Law & Justice Foundation of NSW Murray Engleheart & Jason Mountney STATE OWNED CORPORATIONS Branch Assistant Secretary Legal Aid NSW Writers: AGL Macquarie Kirsten Cameron, Museum of Applied Arts & Sciences Jason Mountney & Murray Engleheart Ausgrid Branch Assistant Secretary NSW Crime Commission – with significant input from members NSW Police Force Corrective Services GEO Group Ron Davis, Branch Assistant NSW Police Force (Blue Uniform) Delta Electricity Contact the PSA Secretary for ‘POA’ Sub-Branch Phone NSW Police Force (Police Band) Energy Australia NSW 1300 772 679 Fax (02) 9262 1623 Wendy Hurry, Branch Vice President NSW Trustee & Guardian (OPG) Eraring Energy Email [email protected] Boyd Kellner, Branch Vice President NSW Trustee & Guardian (Public Trustee) Forestry Corporation of NSW Visit www.psa.asn.au Nicole Jess, Branch Vice President

January–April 2016 Red Tape – 15 There has never been a more important time to be a PSA member

With public services under threat in NSW, With a raft of privatisations planned it is vital you and your colleagues are or underway, there has never been a members of the PSA. greater need for support from a strong, Since 1899, the PSA has been providing united union. quality industrial support and advocacy That union is the PSA. to public servants in NSW. To join the PSA, call 1300 772 679 or go to www.psa.asn.au (Feel free to cut out this page and display it where it can been seen by your colleagues.)

Are you receiving emails from the PSA? If not, you may need to update your details. Go to www.psa.asn.au or call 1300 772 679 and make sure we can contact you.