BANS ON AGENCY STAFF IN DADHC LIFTED

Following negotiations between the PSA and the Department agreement has been reached in relation to the engagement of agency staff.

As a consequence of this agreement the PSA's DADHC Departmental Committee met on Tuesday 10 May and voted to remove the bans.

Formal documentation in relation to the agreement is being prepared and will be distributed by the Department. The terms of agreement will also be made available on the PSA's website.

The Association maintains its opposition to the use of agency staff and it is expected that the agreement reached will greatly reduce dependency on agency staff. Further, negotiations have taken place in relation to improved recruitment strategies to fill all existing vacancies and to enhance the depleted pool of casual staff.

Members are advised that the agreed position for filling short term vacancies is as follows:

1. Additional hours for part-time staff
2. Offering shift to DADHC casuals
3. Offering overtime to permanent full time and part time staff

The engagement of agency staff will only occur when all other options for filling vacancies have been fully explored.

If members are aware that agency staff are being introduced in units where they have, up until now, not been used please provide details to your local delegate or your Association Organiser. Click here for a list of delegates and here for PSA staff.

NOTE: Separate negotiations are occurring in relation to Southern Region. Agency staff will not be engaged in the Illawarra without further consultation with the Association.