CONTENTS
From
WELCOME
Welcome to the latest issue of the Public Sector Review.
Negotiations for the next Salaried Enterprise Agreement are on – with wages being members’ top priority.
NEWS
MEMBER INFO
Our negotiations will focus on getting as much money into our members’ pockets as possible. To achieve this, we need PSA members to stay united, engaged, visible and active. Our main feature explains the lead-up to current negotiations and outlines specific activities you can take to boost our collective power.
Sustained and united action from members works – as the Premier’s Review and subsequent scrapping of the SA Museum’s disastrous ‘reimagining’ proposal has shown. Our article explains how, with members and interested stakeholders, we sent a clear message to the SA government that the ‘re-imagining’ proposal was unacceptable. It’s a massive win for PSA members at the Museum and for South Australia.
MEMBER BENEFITS
The Public Sector Review is an official publication of the Public Service Association of SA Inc and the Community and Public Sector Union (SPSF Group) SA Branch.
Comments, letters and
We also look at this year’s annual PSA Women’s Conference, which focused on winning through union power. Women from across the state gathered to enjoy solidarity with other PSA members and explore the theory and practice of union power. One speaker shared her experience of organising a lunch time ‘walk out’ at the Department for Child Protection (DCP) as part of PSA action during National Child Protection Week. Check out our article to find out more about that week. As we go to print, the PSA is working with members in DCP to address their unsustainable workloads.
We also profile two members who are making a difference outside their usual job – Katisha Forrest from Northern Adelaide Local Health Network, and Paul Unsworth from the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
We hope this Review inspires you to get active in your union – and as always, enjoy the benefits that PSA membership offers.
Negotiations for the next salaried enterprise agreement have begun.
The salaried agreement is the enterprise agreement which covers the majority of PSA members. The outcome will affect the lives of more than 40,000 public sector workers across South Australia. I’m deeply committed to ensuring that the next agreement delivers what our members need and what is important to you.
Members have told us your top priorities are, in summary: wages, job protection, workloads and improving conditions.
Our negotiation positions for a new agreement are based on months of consulting widely with our members to determine your priorities for the next agreement.
It’s no surprise that wages are the number one priority. Due to recent cost of living pressures and inflation, public service wages are now lower in real terms compared to pre-COVID wages.
Since the current salaried enterprise agreement was struck, the world has experienced a social and economic whirlwind fuelled by a global pandemic –throughout which our members, working across all areas of our public sector, helped to make South Australia one of the safest places on earth to be during that time.
While the state’s economy did experience a brief dip at the pandemic’s start, it bounced back quickly and is now in a very strong position.
During the past two years, I have repeatedly put the government on notice that the PSA requires a significant wages outcome from this round of negotiations.
A message from the General Secretary
TAKING UP THE CHALLENGE TOGETHER
by Natasha Brown
I have repeatedly advocated for an outcome that secures wages and benefits which not only recognise the valuable work you do, but also take into account the pressures of the current cost-of-living crisis and labour market realities, and are competitive with outcomes elsewhere.
Increased wages and improvements to conditions must deal not just with the cost of living, but attraction and retention, current labour market pressures, equity with other workers, as well as job protection and workloads.
We will continue to fight for more sustainable workloads, recognition of skills and experience, better vacancy management, improved shift penalties, rostering issues and leave. We will also pursue the maintenance and recognition of professional qualifications, classification issues and progression.
We have had a plan for some time to achieve an Enterprise Agreement that gets the best possible results for all our members. This plan requires all our members to be involved. We need to work together. Our success will depend on acting collectively, and presenting a strong united voice to government. We must build on the success of us standing firmly together in the last two rounds of enterprise agreement negotiations.
We have a massive challenge ahead of us. The extent of this challenge was made clear as the Review was going to print. The government’s ‘initial proposition’ is for salary increases of up to 3% per annum, with the first increase in August 2025 – subject to unspecified reductions to conditions.
This ‘proposition’ is simply disrespectful and insulting. It does not address the
serious cost-of-living pressures harming our PSA members. Nor does it provide a solution to attraction and retention issues facing the public sector, or make members’ wages competitive with the rest of the labour market.
The PSA has rejected this so-called ‘initial proposition’ in the strongest terms. This ‘proposition’ speaks volumes about the level of respect the government has for public sector workers.
Make no mistake: the government will be doing all sorts of things to undermine us, and attempt to ‘divide and conquer’ – an age-old tactic used by those in power to keep workers down.
We must not be distracted by these tired old tricks and rhetoric. We must keep our eyes on our objectives – better wages, better conditions, strong job protections, sustainable workloads – and ultimately better public services for South Australians. We must believe in our worth and our right to safe, rewarding workplaces and wages that allow us live comfortably.
Our ability to work together will ultimately determine what kind of Enterprise Agreement outcome we can achieve. So work together with other members. Encourage them to get actively involved in the union and be part of supporting the negotiation process.
As negotiations progress, I’ll be in touch to help you keep you informed – so look out for further communications from the PSA.
I’m looking forward to working with you to achieve the remuneration you deserve, and the conditions you require. Let’s fight together for all we’re worth!
Natasha Brown
Christian Hagivassilis
A message from the President
THE POWER OF SHARED EXPERIENCE
by Lillia Rozaklis
On 14 January, 1985 I began what has been a wonderfully rewarding career with the South Australian public service. During my induction, a member of the management team, Mr Joe Abraham, had a chat to me about the benefits of joining a union.
Joe, an active PSA member who served as President of the PSA from 1970 to 1974, took the time to tell me about his experience of union membership: how joining forces with other workers helped protect his working conditions and rights and secure his future in the public sector.
What he said made sense to me. So 11 days later on 25 January, 1985 I became a member of the PSA – one of the smartest decisions I’ve made in my working life.
Some years later, I became increasingly aware of – and alarmed at – the ongoing restructures across government departments and agencies, and the impact they were having on my friends, colleagues and the workforce around me. So I decided to bite the bullet. In 2014, I joined the PSA Council and got personally involved in the many positive efforts and changes that our union was putting in place for public sector employees.
There are so many ways our PSA membership protects us – through industrial support and legal services that help keep our workplaces safe and address problems such as understaffing and excessive workloads, to benefits such as Journey Accident Cover and discounts on groceries, entertainment and transport.
The PSA also advocates for our members with politicians and senior agency executives to fight for the resources and respect that we need to serve South Australians well. And it helps keep our work visible to our community through public campaigns and media.
“ The more members we have, the louder our collective voice is. And the louder our voice, the harder it is to ignore. That’s why it’s vital that we encourage others to become union members.”
Being a union member also gives us a way to connect with other likeminded people in solidarity – as I did by attending the inspirational Women’s Conference in October this year.
One of the most powerful ways our union makes a difference is through Enterprise Agreement negotiations. For example, in 2017 the PSA made 350 improvements to our Enterprise Agreement, each one meticulously worked through and based on the experience and feedback of our members.
The negotiation process also involves standing up to governments who may look to remove any of the rights that we’ve fought tooth and nail for. Back in 2021, the union and our members fought an aggressive government determined to weaken our job security – and won.
In 2024, our union will be fighting hard again, with better wages on top of the agenda. To get the outcome we want, we all need to take action –from attending worksite meetings and talking to Worksite Representatives to sharing information with colleagues who are yet to join.
Of course, the more members we have, the louder our collective voice is. And the louder our voice, the harder it is to ignore. That’s why it’s vital that we encourage others to become union members.
By taking the time to share his experience with me, Joe Abraham inspired me to join the PSA and go on this wonderful journey of solidarity and action.
I invite you to think about what motivated you to become a member of the PSA, and to share that experience with a colleague. You never know –your story just might be the one that inspires them to join.
A message from the Assistant General Secretary
ACT FOR WAGE JUSTICE
by Christian Hagivassilis
PSA members need a pay rise. Will you act with us to make sure we get it?
As I write, the PSA is negotiating not just the salaried enterprise agreement, but a number of other agreements including Red Cross Lifeblood, SA Water, Forestry SA, and in Parliament.
The salaried agreement covers more than 40,000 public servants – and more than 90% of PSA members.
In the 2017 salaried enterprise agreement, PSA members achieved more than 350 improvements to conditions. This included achieving significantly more than the government-imposed 1.5% wage limit for more than 90% of PSA members, comprehensive job security protections, protections from unreasonable workloads, improved consultation rights and many, many more.
During the 2021 enterprise agreement negotiations, the government wanted to strip out our hard-won job security protections to make it easier to privatise public services and axe members’ jobs. These negotiations happened during the uncertainty of COVID-19, when thousands were being laid off around the country, CPI was around 1.2%, interest rates were low and the Reserve Bank Governor had said there would be no rate rises for years.
Under these circumstances, PSA members held firm to protect their conditions from a hostile government approach – and won.
The world has changed a lot since then. Post-COVID restrictions, the economic impacts of trade tensions, armed conflict and corporate greed have led to the cost-ofliving crisis hurting so many PSA members.
PSA members need a pay rise; one that makes up for the real loss of their purchasing power and which supports their future needs. For more than two years, the PSA has been advocating for the government to alleviate cost-of-living pressures on members; this has largely been ignored. Now it’s time to address wages through a new enterprise agreement.
“ For more than two years, the PSA has been advocating for the government to alleviate cost-of-living pressures on members; this has largely been ignored. Now it’s time to address wages through a new enterprise agreement.”
To get the pay outcome members need, we need to support negotiations with collective action. If we reject a proposition, proposal or eventually an offer, we all need to take action to ensure the next one is better.
Standing alone, haggling and trading conditions for pay never ends well for workers. That’s why we are asking you to think about the collective action you can take to support negotiations.
A lot of members think that action means walking off the job. But that’s not the only option – and it’s rarely the first one taken. There are many actions members can take to put pressure on an employer.
Displaying PSA materials at your workplace shows that we are here and we are united.
Turning out to PSA meetings, events and rallies tells employers and the public that we are standing together for a fair deal.
Nobody knows better what actions will work best in your workplace than you. So now is the time to think about what actions you need to take to get the wage rise you need.
COUNTERING THE COST OF LIVING: Enterprise Agreement NegotiationsBEGIN
At a glance:
• Our members have spoken: wages are the top priority for the next Enterprise Agreement (EA) negotiations.
• Job protection, workloads and improved conditions are also high priorities.
• South Australia’s economy is booming, but the rising cost of living has devalued public sector wages.
• The PSA will negotiate hard for our members for the best possible wage outcome.
• By uniting and taking simple actions now, members can let the government know they are determined to get the agreement they need.
• The government’s recent “initial proposition”– a salary increase of up to 3% per annum and subject to reduced conditions, with the first increase not until August 2025 – is insulting and disrespectful.
SHOW ME THE MONEY!
The PSA has consulted members extensively about the next salaried EA. Across hundreds of worksite meetings and in our membershipwide survey, members were loud and clear: wages are their number one priority.
On Monday September 9 2024, the PSA attended the first formal meeting for the public sector salaried EA negotiations.
At the meeting, PSA General Secretary Natasha Brown emphasised that members needed wages that kept up with the cost of living.
“As South Australia’s principal public sector union, the PSA is fully aware of what our members’ concerns are,” Natasha Brown said. “We’re ready to negotiate to get as much money as possible into our members’ pockets.”
While wages are PSA members’ top priority, members also identified job security, protection from unreasonable
workloads, and improved conditions as their highest priorities.
The PSA will be advocating for improved wages and conditions which address cost of living, attraction and retention, current labour market realities, job security, workloads, equity with other workers, recognition of skills and experience, vacancy management, shift penalties, rostering issues, leave, maintaining and recognising professional qualifications, classification and progression.
The impact of these for certain groups of workers will be the subject of specific negotiations. We will continue consulting with those members through existing consultative structures such as our PSA Allied Health Professional (AHP) Network, the Corrections Consultative Committee and our Child Protection representatives group.
“The outcome of this agreement will affect the lives of more than 40,000 workers in this state,” Natasha Brown said. “It’s significance cannot be overstated.”
EA: ALL ABOUT OUR MEMBERS’ PRIORITIES
2017: Members prioritise modernising the agreement
In the lead-up to the 2017 EA agreement, our members identified many improvements they needed, including stronger job security.
The PSA was responsible for negotiating 350 improvements in that round of negotiations, including the comprehensive job security provisions in Appendix 1: Redeployment, Retraining and Redundancy, and a number of other landmark, nation-leading provisions.
2021: Members prioritise job security
In the 2021 negotiations, job security was members’ highest priority, as the then-Marshall government attempted to remove Appendix 1 and water down other key provisions, such as
GOVERNMENT’S “INITIAL PROPOSITION” AN INSULT
Just before the Review went to print, the PSA received the government’s socalled “initial proposition” for a new EA. It proposed salary increases of “up to 3% per annum”, with the first increase in August 2025, and unspecified changes (read reductions) to the agreement.
This is a disrespectful and insulting “proposition” – even as a starting point for the government’s agenda. It does not address cost-of-living pressures or other priorities of members.
grievance and dispute resolution and consultation processes. The unwavering commitment of members made sure the PSA protected and secured those hardwon conditions in the midst of a once-in-a100-year pandemic – and against a hostile government agenda.
2024: Members prioritise wages
Since the 2021 agreement was struck the world has changed dramatically.
In 2021, interest rates were low and the Reserve Bank Governor had indicated that they would not rise for at least three years. Since 2022, the cost of living has increased significantly — due to factors unforeseen at the time the 2021 agreement was struck.
Geopolitical and global economic disruptions, trade tensions and armed
This “initial proposition” confirms what we have long known – achieving an agreement that meets our members’ needs will take the commitment and action of PSA members working strongly together.
A BOOMING STATE ECONOMY –BUT PUBLIC SECTOR WORKERS AREN’T BENEFITING
After a brief recession during the 2020 pandemic, the South Australian economy bounced back, driven by government and consumption and private business investment. It also grew faster than other Australian states over this period.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
• Talk to your PSA Organiser or Worksite Representative about what action you can take.
• Tell the PSA what you think of the government’s “initial proposition” at youragreement@psaofsa.asn.au.
• If your work colleagues agree that the government’s approach is disrespectful and insulting ask them to join with you to make them change it.
• Make it known in your workplace that you’re a PSA member by putting a PSA sticker, cup or note pad on your desk.
conflict have all contributed to the current cost-of-living crisis. All this means that over this period, the real buying power of public servants has gone backwards.
Unprecedented labour market pressures means public servants’ wages are now out of step with current labour market realities.
“The disparity between public and private sector wages, and the fact that our hard-working public sector workers are struggling to pay their household bills is completely unacceptable,” said PSA General Secretary Natasha Brown.
“We will negotiate hard to get South Australian public sector workers in the best financial position possible.”
South Australia’s economy is stable and diverse. While it’s true it has slowed somewhat since 2023, it’s expected to continue to grow thanks to a strong labour market, ongoing construction projects and government investment.
“Our members need and deserve better wages – and the government can not only afford to pay them, it has a responsibility to do so,” said PSA General Secretary Natasha Brown.
“To get the best possible wage outcome, we need our members to unite – and show the government they will not accept any offer that doesn’t meet their needs.”
• Put up PSA posters, like the ‘Wage Justice Now’ poster on the back of this magazine, on your worksite PSA notice board.
• Leave PSA fliers or a copy of this Review in the lunch room.
• Like, comment on and share posts on the PSA Facebook and Instagram pages.
• Tell your colleagues why you are a PSA member.
• If you’re not a PSA member, today is the best day to join!
JOIN NOW
MUSEUM ‘RE-IMAGINING’ NOW HISTORY COLLECTIVE ACTION WORKS:
PSA members at the SA Museum breathed a collective sigh of relief after the much-awaited Premier’s Review Panel recommended the scrapping of the notorious ‘re-imagining’ proposal, and an extra injection of $4.1 million of funding into the Museum.
The Premier announced a fresh strategic plan and the appointment of Professor Robert Saint AM as Presiding Member of the Museum board after the resignation of former Chair Kim Cheater.
The Review came after almost 12 months of collective efforts by committed stakeholders against the ill-conceived ‘re-imagining’ proposal.
The proposal lacked proper consultation with broader stakeholders including longterm research partners and First Nations individuals and communities, and would have seen research partnership with local, interstate and national universities ended. Already, funding cuts, through socalled ‘efficiency dividends’, had caused significant harm to the Museum. Staff had also been banned from applying for Australia’s major Commonwealth grants.
PSA members at the Museum were especially concerned about the damage that the restructure would do to Collections and Research functions.
Already, staff shortages in Collections have led to a huge backlog of registration of specimens, while storage facilities are below standard due to years of chronic underfunding resulting in degradation of some collections.
Without a properly resourced Collections management team, vital research into key areas such as genetics, biodiversity, and the impacts of climate change would have been affected.
MEMBERS’ SUSTAINED ACTION CATCHES MEDIA ATTENTION
PSA members were instrumental in creating attention and opposition to the ‘re-imagining’ proposal that ultimately led to the Premier’s Review.
In April 2024, the PSA lodged a dispute in the South Australian Employment Tribunal (SAET) about the lack of consultation with Museum staff, and played a key role in the public campaign to save the Museum, which has gained widespread interest.
Meanwhile, PSA members at the Museum – led by a staunch group of active Worksite Representatives – mobilised to resist the Museum’s proposals.
A strong contingent of PSA members gathered with other community stakeholders at the steps of Parliament House for a well-attended rally, where PSA General Secretary Natasha Brown spoke to attendees.
Natasha Brown warned the crowd of the dire consequences if the disastrous ‘re-imagining’ proposal went ahead, stating:
“The proposed changes could see the exodus of a collective 474 years of expertise and knowledge from the Museum. These are highly regarded professionals who have made an incredible contribution to South Australia and the broader scientific world through their work at the Museum.”
Thanks to collective and sustained action by committed stakeholders and ongoing media attention, in late April 2024 the government announced a Premier’s Review of the proposed restructure.
A NEW DIRECTION, FUNDING AND CONSULTATION
The Premier announced the findings of the review and the government’s response on 19 September 2024. They included commitments to extra funding, the development of a new Strategic Plan, sustainable research and funding models through South Australia’s universities and improvement to other funding sources, and a study on ways to improve galleries and exhibition spaces.
The PSA has welcomed all the six recommendations of the Premier’s Review Panel, including the government’s commitment to proper consultation with staff, committed and interested groups, and the wider community.
“We welcome the emphasis in the report on the importance of consultation – it’s something for which the PSA has argued for
some time, and something the Museum management and its Board has seriously failed in recently,” she said.
“What’s needed is a clear direction and plan for the Museum, and the funding, resourcing and staffing to ensure that the Museum is equipped to be what the South Australian community expect it to be.”
TRUST MUST BE RE-ESTABLISHED
The PSA looks forward to the Museum continuing its tradition as a world-leading research institution where members are empowered to promote and protect the state’s cultural, scientific and historical knowledge through its research, collections, displays and exhibitions.
However, PSA General Secretary Natasha Brown acknowledged the ‘re-imagining’ proposal had eroded trust between the SA Museum and interested parties, and highlighted the stress that members at the SA Museum experienced fighting the proposal.
“Because of everything that has happened in the last 12 months or so, there needs to be some distance put between then and now –and trust must be re-established,” she said.
“The PSA will be closely monitoring the direction and future of South Australia’s much-loved Museum and the wellbeing of our members there.”
SA WATER MEMBERS TURN UP THE PRESSURE:
PSA members responded to SA Water’s insulting Enterprise Agreement offer with a overwhelming and unprecedented flood of NO votes – 80%, to be precise.
After sinking in embarrassment, SA Water’s initial response to our members’ NO was a resounding silence. In response, the PSA, in solidarity with other unions, maintained action, which included marching with members to the Adelaide Town Hall.
It was eventually announced that the SA Government would take over the EA negotiations.
To celebrate our success, the PSA caught up with SA Water PSA members over lunch.
AND WIN.
We need to continue to keep turning up the pressure until our members get an Enterprise Agreement that meets their needs.
THE 2024 BIGGER, STRONGER, UNITED:
PSA WOMEN’S CONFERENCE
Women from across regional and metropolitan South Australia came together for the 2024 Public Service Association Women’s Conference to share their collective wisdom, experience and enthusiasm around the theme: ‘Power to Win: Bigger, Stronger, United.’
The conference focused on union power: what it is, ways to build it and how to harness it to benefit our workplaces, our public sector and the South Australian community.
The day opened with a moving Welcome to Country from Rosalind Coleman, who
welcomed all those attending to Kaurna country. PSA General Secretary Natasha Brown’s keynote speech launched the theme of union power and the role unions have played in securing wins for women – from the right to vote through to better pay, parental leave and paid family and domestic violence leave.
Other highlights included a session on building power from SA Unions Women’s Officer Jane Clarke, an update on recent changes to legislation around psychosocial hazards, a panel of inspiring PSA Worksite
Representatives who shared their experience of harnessing union power to achieve huge wins at work, and a workshop led by PSA Women’s Network Co-ordinator Natasha Bayer on building union culture in the workplace.
General Secretary Natasha Brown provided attendees with a briefing on the current Salaried Enterprise Agreement negotiations and how members can act together to achieve an agreement that meets their needs and priorities. The conference was a perfect opportunity for new and long-term PSA members to collaborate and discuss actions everyone can take to help win better wages, and continue to protect jobs, sustainable workloads and good working conditions.
After a day of networking, speakers and workshops, members left the conference with resources and specific actions to build power at their workplaces, some new friendships – and a renewed appreciation of their collective power as PSA members.
NATIONAL CHILD PROTECTION WEEK
WORKERS DEMAND change to unsustainable workloads
National Child Protection Week took place in the week of 1–7 September this year with the overarching theme: ‘Every child in every community needs a fair go.’
For our most disadvantaged children, a fair go should include a well resourced, adequately staffed and respected Child Protection workforce. Sadly, the Department for Child Protection (DCP) is putting its head in the sand when it comes to the needs of its frontline staff.
Our Child Protection workers are increasingly asked to do more with less. As a further insult, the latest DCP restructure has proposed adding another three new Executive roles – on top of the extra four it already added between June 2022 and June 2023.
In response, South Australian Child Protection Workers ‘walked off’ the job on their lunch breaks on Tuesday 3 September.
The action, organised by the PSA, was part of a co-ordinated response by Child Protection Workers across the country.
The focus of the walkout was to call on our State Government to set up more
formal mechanisms to address front-line workers’ unmanageable workloads.
PSA General Secretary Natasha Brown addressed more than 70 workers at the DCP Elizabeth office, acknowledging the challenging but vital work they do –and highlighting the lack of respect and resources given to them by the State Government.
“DCP’s recent proposed restructure, with its creation of more executive-level roles, is an insult to workers on the frontline,” Ms Brown told the crowd.
“At the same time, DCP is expecting workers to take on even more cases on top of already full caseloads. This is unsustainable and at worst downright dangerous.”
WORKLOAD CRISIS
The South Australian Government’s latest Workforce Information Report paints a sobering picture of the state of DCP. In June 2023, there were 52 more children in residential care than in June 2022. While the number of extra full-time positions increased by nine, the overall headcount increased by five.
“The workload crisis is exacerbating DCP’s serious problems with attraction and retention of staff,” said Natasha Brown. “This seriously affects workers’ ability to provide much-needed care to children and families in need.”
The action comes at the tail end of the public consultation process for the South Australian Government’s Draft Children and Young People (Safety and Support) Bill 2024, which closed on 14 September 2024. The key aims of this proposed legislation is to focus on the best needs of the child, make child protection a whole-of-community responsibility, emphasise the rights of Aboriginal children and families and enact changes to requirements for mandatory notifications.
The PSA strongly believes that to deliver on the goals of the legislation, the DCP must address issues of unsustainable workloads among frontline staff and create better conditions that help attract and retain workers in this essential service.
FROM UNFAIR ROSTER REGIONAL MEMBERS SHIFT AWAY
Administration workers in the Riverland Mallee Coorong Local Health Network (RMCLHN) Emergency Department (ED) scored a victory regarding new 24/7 roster arrangements.
The roster system was proposed after RMCLHN adopted SA Health’s electronic patient medical record system in mid2024. The new system requires an administration officer to be available 24/7 at the ED.
Members at the Riverland General Hospital (RGH) raised concerns about the new roster arrangements with their PSA Organiser.
They told us of instances of workers expected to find their own replacement for shifts they could not do if they had already worked up to or more than their hours. Other members had been rostered on for certain days – despite having informed management that they had caring commitments on those days. Members also said that rosters were not displayed two weeks in advance, making it difficult for them to plan their time.
After the PSA wrote to RMCLHN alerting them to members’ concerns, management agreed to our recommendations to trial the new roster for 12 weeks, and allow existing staff to opt out of the new shifts without loss of hours or change to their contract conditions.
RMCLHN stated it will also recruit new staff to help cover shifts, and will make the roster requirements, including night shifts, clear when advertising the position.
BREAKS BACK ON THE MENU
Meanwhile, staff at the Murray Bridge Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital have had their breaks reinstated under the SA Health and Safety Act 2012 as a repetitive task break, after members contacted the PSA when management removed the break without any consultation as required under the Act.
The PSA pointed out to management that removing the break could increase the risk of injury, and was also a breach of Section 49(d) of the SA Work Health Safety Act 2012 and Clause 34 of the South Australian Public Sector Enterprise Agreement: Salaried: 2021, which require employers to engage with workers and their union about changes affecting their health and safety.
“Both wins are the result of members picking up the phone to their Organiser or the PSA Hotline,” PSA General Secretary Natasha Brown said.
“By getting in touch with us, members help us stay informed about any workplace changes and ensure their rights are front and centre when decisions are made.”
MENTAL HEALTH
MONTH
October was Mental Health Month: a national event that aims to improve community awareness and interest in mental health and wellbeing.
Many of our PSA members provide essential services and care to people living with mental health issues as well as their carers, families and friends. They also help raise awareness and provide education about mental health conditions and how to improve wellbeing.
The PSA thanks all our members working in mental health for the critical role they play in supporting our community.
KATISHA FORREST: PSA member
RAISES FUNDS FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION AUSTRALIA
Katisha Forrest envisages a world where suicide does not exist. A Medical Records Officer at Northern Adelaide Local Health Network, Katisha is working towards that vision by raising funds for Suicide Prevention Australia, the national peak body and member organisation that’s guided by people who have lived experience of suicide.
In 2021, Katisha lost her beloved son Dillon to suicide.
“[Losing Dillon] has been hard to accept,” said Katisha. “Raising funds for Suicide Prevention Australia is my way of helping others or saving at least one life. I know that Dillon would be grateful that am raising as much money as I can to help others who are thinking of ending their life.”
Katisha begun her foray into fundraising in April this year. So far, she has raised $7,600 through social media, putting up flyers in hotel venues, and selling AFLsigned merchandise.
“I was going to have a gala event with bingo and a silent auction, but I have had a workplace injury since June 2024, so I postponed it – hopefully it will happen next year,” she said.
TAKING HER FUNDRAISING ENDEAVOURS TO THE WORLD
Katisha’s unwavering efforts to make a difference to those affected by suicide caught the attention of the award-winning television show Adventure All Stars The producers of this ‘travel show with a difference’ have got behind Katisha’s philanthropic activities by featuring her story in its Legends Series 3 program –which will be broadcast across the globe to 100 million viewers.
Her episode, entitled Doing it for Dillon, is due to be filmed in mid-November.
“The filming will take place over a week in a secret location,” Katisha said. “It could be filmed in Australia – or it could take place overseas. I’m very excited about it.”
Katisha said that the loving response from her friends and other employers who have donated items for her to sell has been the most fulfilling part of the journey. Her emotional journey since losing Dillon has been the hardest.
“I have not grieved too much since Dillon passed, as I have two other children aged 17 and 15 years old and loving and supporting them is my first concern,” she said.
A member of the PSA for more than a year, Katisha has also valued the support from PSA Organisers, who have provided guidance on how to deal with her workplace injury.
“Someone from the PSA has been there to help me along the way,” said Katisha. “I”m very thankful for all the PSA do.”
To find out more about Katisha’s work, go to: https://suicide-prevention-australialegends.raiselysite.com/katisha-forrest
Katisha Forrest
CELEBRATING OUR ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS
On 14 October, International Allied Health Professions Day celebrated the valuable work that Allied Health Professions (AHPs) do, under the theme ‘Stronger together’.
Our AHP members work tirelessly across the state in public health, aged care, child
protection, youth justice, corrections, courts, disability and education. They are critical members of any multidisciplinary team they belong to.
However, as Allied Health Professions Australia notes, AHPs must be recognised alongside their professional colleagues for
DCP WITHDRAWS DELEGATION CHANGES
Child protection workers are often required to make incredibly difficult decisions when working to protect our most vulnerable children and families. A proposal by the Department for Child Protection (DCP) to make changes to delegations under Section 41 of the Children and Young People (Safety) Act 2017 would have made a tough job even more difficult.
PSA members were concerned that if DCP’s proposed amendment had gone through, Child Protection Supervisors would no longer have had the authority to make the extremely difficult decision to remove a newborn child within the first 48 hours of their birth. Instead, only Managers, Practice Leaders and Directors would have had the power to do so.
DCP stated that the purpose of these proposed changes was to improve staff support and give the department greater visibility of this highly significant action.
However, workers in the field strongly opposed this decision for many reasons – including the fact that strong consultation guides
their role in designing and implementing comprehensive systems of care that truly wrap around clients.
This acknowledgement is even more important as the PSA engages in negotiations for the next Enterprise Agreement.
Through our PSA AHP Network, the PSA continues to advocate for members to be valued and recognised – and given everything they need to provide the highest level of care and service to South Australians.
The PSA thanks all our AHP members for the vital and complex work they do!
PAUL UNSWORTH, FLEURIEU
DISTRICT RANGER
Local PSA member leads SA firefighting effort overseas.
As the Fleurieu District Ranger at the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), PSA member Paul Unsworth considers himself incredibly lucky.
A ranger at Victor Harbour since 2003 and District Ranger since 2009, Paul gets to do what he’s passionate about – protecting and caring for the local biodiversity and community of the stunning Fleurieu region. This includes defending the land against the ravages of bushfire.
His fire-fighting expertise was called on this year to help the north-western US state of Oregon.
“Australia, Canada and the United States have an agreement to provide each other with bushfire support,” said Paul.
“It took us three or four days to adjust,” said Paul. “But once we’d settled in, our crews pulled above their weight. Local fire fighters were very impressed by our crew and sought to learn as much from them as they could.”
Paul and his team stayed at a campsite with more than 1,100 others. Amenities
already exist regarding the enormous decision to remove a child from their parents. Members also did not want this decision being made by staff who may not have intimate knowledge of the family’s situation or may not be best positioned to make this critical decision.
In September 2024, the Department formally advised the PSA that it would no longer go ahead with the proposed delegation changes.
“This reversal was only made possible through extensive feedback from our members who do this sensitive work,” said PSA General Secretary Natasha Brown. “It’s a powerful example of how consultation can ensure members’ voices are heard.”
Consultation is one of the hard-won rights enshrined in our Enterprise Agreement. By coming together and sharing their expertise, our child protection workers can continue to advocate for the children and families they serve – and for the authority and respect to do what is often an enormously challenging job.
“In August 2024, a call came through from the US to assist the Oregon team, who were battling more than 100 fires.”
After arriving in the US, Paul and his team were assigned to the Willamette Valley, a forested mountain range. It was a gruelling schedule of two 14-day stints, with a 48hour break between. The team also had to navigate different operational systems and terminology.
were good, and the locals were very friendly and grateful for their support.
“We got applause as we walked through the airport to fly home.”
Despite sleeping in a campsite for a month, Paul’s love of being outdoors wasn’t deterred.
“When I got back home, I went out bought a new tent!” he said.
PSA MEMBERSHIP IS A ‘NO-BRAINER’
A PSA member since 2006, Paul says union membership is a no-brainer. He says the pay and conditions that the PSA negotiates through its industrial expertise pays the fees – even before taking into account the other benefits of membership.
“I don’t want to negotiate with the government myself, I want industrial experts to do that,” said Paul.
Paul Unsworth in Oregon.
With American crews, laying hoses for a spot fire
WITH PSA MEMBERS OUT AND ABOUT
Union Aid Abroad APHEDA
UNION POWER FOR CLIMATE JUSTICE IN INDONESIA
The climate crisis is a global issue that requires a global response. That’s why we are collaborating with unions in neighbouring countries, where workers’ lives are directly affected by this crisis.
COAL WORKERS IN INDONESIA
Indonesia is the largest thermal coal exporter in the world. A significant shift away from fossil fuels in Indonesia is imminent, and it will have a massive impact on the workforce. Nikasi Ginting, the Secretary General of the Mining and Energy Federation of Indonesia, stands at the forefront representing thousands of coal workers. Nikasi is concerned about the future of their jobs.
Currently, 75% of Indonesia’s coal is exported. Demand from major countries, along with the impact of the ban on Russian coal exports, has fuelled enormous growth in Indonesia’s coal market and production. The remaining coal reserves supply the domestic market, making coal the primary source of the country’s electricity mix. As a result, Indonesia’s coal power carbon emissions have doubled in the past decade. But this is destined to change.
Indonesia’s plan to phase out coal by 2060 is a positive step in combating climate change. However, Nikasi warns that this transition threatens the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of coal miners and their communities, including informal workers. As the world’s largest coal
exporter, Indonesia’s local economies are deeply dependent on this industry.
The dramatic shift and massive growth in overall electricity output will significantly impact the workforce. However, Indonesia’s unions and workers have not been consulted and have been left out of national planning. At the workplace level, workers are in the dark.
“ We need to educate our members about this transition. It’s the industry we work in, but we haven’t been consulted. The consequences of this change could mean privatisation and the breaking up of the stateowned company, which will weaken the union and threaten jobs.”
– Mr. Nurul Hudha, Regional Secretary of the energy union (DPD SP PLN PUSMANPRO).
JUST TRANSITION FOR FAIRER JOBS
Climate justice is the key to securing a fairer future. Trade unions in Indonesia, the Philippines, and Nepal – our partner organisations – are gearing up to ensure no one is left behind in the transition to renewable energy.
Workers’ voices must be heard to secure their rights and protect informal economy workers and women, who are doubly impacted by the shift from coal mining. Moving towards a cleaner environment shouldn’t come at the expense of workers. Instead, it must create fairer, decent jobs. This is the essence of climate justice.
WHAT ARE WE DOING?
Through our Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA projects, we are building union power to defend climate justice with:
• Indonesian coal workers organising to secure a just energy transition.
• Filipino workers mobilising for climate justice and effective responses to climate disasters.
• Indian women coal pickers organising for alternative and long-term jobs.
• Nepalese unions advancing workers’ agendas in climate negotiations with the government.
JOIN US IN MAKING A DIFFERENCE
With the support of unionists and members, we can continue to stand in solidarity with the workers most affected by the climate crisis. Together, we can ensure no one is left behind while fighting for a renewable, safer, and fairer future. Join us on our 40th anniversary – a perfect opportunity to keep building global solidarity through the Australian union movement and Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA. Join today at apheda.org.au/join
120 years of helping South Australian public sector workers secure their financial future.
Super SA is the dedicated super fund for all South Australian public sector workers. For 120 years our purpose is to champion the financial wellbeing of South Australians and help our members deliver their best life in retirement.
With a personalised Member Centre in the Adelaide CBD and member services sta answering calls on average in less than 1 min 20 secs, we are here to help you along your super journey.
To find out the di erent ways Super SA can support you, visit supersa.sa.gov.au or call us on 08 8214 7800.
Nikasi Ginting, the Secretary General of the Mining and Energy Federation of Indonesia
DAN DAN NOODLES WITH PORK & GREENS
Have this healthy recipe from Sprout on the table in 20 minutes! Dark, leafy vegetables like choy sum are a great source of vitamin C, beta-carotene and dietary fibre.
Serves: 4
INGREDIENTS
1 cup salt-reduced chicken stock
¼ cup salt-reduced soy sauce
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
2 tablespoons tahini
1 tablespoon chilli paste
2 teaspoons honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
500g pork mince
4 spring onions, thinly sliced
4 garlic cloves, finely grated
2 teaspoons Chinese five spice
2 bunches of choy sum, cut into 5cm lengths
1 tablespoon sesame oil
200g dry egg noodles
¼ bunch of coriander, leaves picked
PSA members pay less for great value health cover with Health Partners.
We’re a fund that’s 100% not-for-profit, so you get more of the good stuff. Get an ongoing 6% discount on your health cover. Call 1300 113 113 today and quote PSA or get a quote online
WILL AND SUCCESSION PLANNING: COMMON QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Thinking about preparing or revising a will? Here are common questions our clients ask.
What is a will?
METHOD
1. To make the Dan Dan sauce, stir together stock, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, tahini, chilli paste and honey until smooth. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok over high heat. Cook pork, breaking up lumps with a wooden spoon, for 3-4 minutes or until browned. Add spring onions, garlic and Chinese five spice and cook for a further minute or until fragrant. Stir through Dan Dan sauce and choy sum. Simmer for 1-2 minutes or until choy sum is tender and sauce has slightly thickened and reduced. Stir through sesame oil.
3. Meanwhile, bring a large saucepan of water to the boil. Boil egg noodles for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
4. Divide noodles between four serving bowls. Top with pork and choy sum, then generously spoon over sauce. Finish with coriander leaves.
Extracted from healthpartners.com.au
Disclaimer: The information contained here is of a general nature and does not take into account your personal medical situation. The information is not a substitute for independent professional medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or used for therapeutic purposes. Should you require specific medical information, please seek advice from your healthcare practitioner. Health Partners does not accept any liability for any injury, loss or damage incurred by use of or reliance on the information provided. While we have prepared the information carefully, we can’t guarantee that it is accurate, complete or up-to-date. And while we may mention goods or services provided by others, we aren’t specifically endorsing them and can’t accept responsibility for them.
A will is a legal document that sets out who will inherit your assets when you die. You can also use a will to appoint executors and guardians for children, and state whether you would like to be buried or cremated.
What happens if you die without a will in Australia?
If you don’t have a will, you are deemed to have died intestate and your assets will be distributed to the people (in the proportions specified) according to the Administration & Probate Act SA 1919.
Not having a will could create complex and expensive issues, particularly if you are still legally married and in a new domestic partnership, or where children are involved.
Why should you get professional help to prepare your will?
A professional will protects your loved ones against the stress and expense of having to rectify any errors in the will, or having to apply to have an informal will admitted to Probate – in other words, to
a court that will decide whether the will is legally valid.
A lawyer will give you proper advice about reducing any potential challenges to your will – and peace of mind, knowing your will is drafted and signed properly.
Are online wills legal in Australia?
DIY wills and ‘will kits’ may seem like a cheap, easy option, but be careful.
If homemade wills aren’t completed or signed properly, their validity can be questioned, which means significant delays and costs.
In some cases, they can result in expensive litigation if people don’t agree that the will should be upheld due to errors.
What assets can you leave in your will?
You can leave any asset that is your sole property.
You can’t leave jointly owned assets such as cars, bank accounts, home contents and real estate (other than real estate where you’re a tenant in common) as they’ll automatically pass to the surviving owner.
Assets held in a family trust or private company don’t belong to you and therefore can’t be left in your will. In this case, it’s important to get legal advice.
Superannuation may or may not form part of your estate, depending on the terms of your fund, and whether you have a binding or non-binding death benefit nomination.
It’s important to get legal advice regarding your superannuation benefits during will and estate planning as they can often be the largest, or one of the largest, assets of your estate.
WE’RE HERE TO HELP
Johnston Withers Lawyers offer PSA members discounts on legal and conveyancing services because of our relationship with your union. If you’d like advice or direction from one of our lawyers about will and estate planning, please contact us on (08) 8231 1110 or get in touch online at https://johnstonwithers. com.au/contact-us
Disclaimer: This article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
PSA HOLIDAY HOME: GLENELG
If you’re looking for a beach getaway in the heart of Adelaide’s metropolitan area, the PSA’s holiday homes at Glenelg could be just the thing. Whether you’re travelling from regional South Australia or from another part of the metropolitan area and just after change of scenery, this accommodation is a stone’s throw from the beach and an ideal place to unwind and enjoy all that this premier coastal region has to offer.
With its stunning beaches, charming Victorian architecture and bustling atmosphere, Glenelg offers something for everyone. Take a stroll along iconic Jetty Road and enjoy the sea breeze, or relax on the sandy beaches and soak up the sun.
Glenelg is home to the historic Holdfast Bay Museum and the popular Bay Discovery Centre, which showcases the history and culture of South Australia.
Glenelg is also a popular shopping and dining hub, with a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants offering local produce, fresh seafood and other delicious dishes.
UNION SHOPPER’S SIMPLE STRATEGIES FOR SAVING
DISCOVER THE REVAMPED UNION SHOPPER EXPERIENCE!
PSA holiday homes are the best-value accommodation available –and they’re offered exclusively to PSA members. Check out what’s available at psaofsa.asn.au/psa-holiday-homes email holidayhomes@psaofsa.asn.au or call our Member Benefits Team on 8205 3200 today to secure your booking.
Public servants are the backbone of South Australia – so Union Shopper would like to reward you by helping you make your dollars go further.
Here are some practical ways to save:
1. Take advantage of member-exclusive deals through Union Shopper
Your PSA membership gives you access to Union Shopper, a service dedicated to securing great deals. With discounts on purchases like groceries, fuel or utilities, and significant savings on big-ticket items like vehicles, appliances, or travel, we have your back.
Save without compromising on quality through your union portal: https://unionshopper.com.au/union/psa-sa/
2. Review and reduce recurring expenses
Analyse your recurring expenses, and find savings quickly by reviewing subscriptions, insurance policies and utility bills. Check out platforms that let you compare rates with other providers – and switch if you find a better deal.
Union Shopper has exclusive offers not always available to the general public: https://unionshopper.com.au/offers/?category=services&unionid=196701
3. Plan and budget for groceries
Plan your meals with leftovers in mind and stretch your grocery budget further by creating multiple meals from the same ingredients.
Buying in bulk, choosing generic brands, and stocking up on discounted essentials can also help reduce bills.
Use these cards at checkout: https://unionshopper.com.au/offers/?category=gift-cards&unionid=196701
4. Take public transport
With rising fuel costs, public transport can be cheaper than driving. The Metrocard is a no brainer!
https://www.adelaidemetro.com.au/tickets-and-fares/savings-estimator
If you must drive, try carpooling with colleagues and save on fuel.
5. Try free or low-cost activities
Adelaide offers many low-cost activities: from strolling through the Botanic Gardens to exploring the South Australian Museum or the Art Gallery of South Australia.
Union Shopper offers discounted tickets to events and attractions, making it easier to enjoy your downtime affordably: https://unionshopper.com.au/offers/?unionid=196701&category=leisure
Saving money doesn’t have to mean sacrificing fun, but getting more out of every dollar. Union Shopper is here to help. Make the most of the benefits available to you as a PSA member: https://unionshopper.com.au/union/psa-sa/
Make the most of your PSA membership with Union Shopper’s incredible savings on a wide range of products and services. Union Shopper has recently upgraded its website to bring you extra benefits, features and savings.
EASE YOUR COST-OF-LIVING PRESSURES!
To celebrate our new website, Union Shopper is giving away five $200 Coles Gift Cards!
Simply register or log in to Union Shopper via the PSA of SA area by Sat 14 Dec 2024 to be automatically entered into the draw. Why Union Shopper?
• 100% union-owned: Every benefit is designed with you in mind.
• Exclusive savings: Enjoy amazing discounts, all available through your PSA of SA membership.
• Trusted service: Bringing union members great deals for over 35 years.
Use the link below to register, or log in and explore the new Union Shopper website – and be in the running to win one of five $200 Coles Gift Cards! unionshopper.com.au/union/psa-sa/ FIRST-TIME UNION SHOPPER USER?
Click confirm your details and follow the prompts to register. If you’ve used Union Shopper before, simply enter your details to log in.
