Australian Unity Enterprise Agreement

Negotiation meetings

Last month, your CPSU NSW representatives met with Australian Unity in order to recommence negotiations for a new Enterprise Agreement. Australian Unity outlined a desire to complete the bargaining process by November this year. The CPSU NSW agrees with this approach as the 12-month interim arrangements that were put in place once the Copied State Awards ceased to apply will expire in February 2022.

Agreement was reached around the process of bargaining and, as a result, the parties will meet on a fortnightly basis with the ability to ramp up the frequency of meetings if needed. Our first such meeting will be held on 11 August.

Survey results

Thank you to all members who completed the recent survey on workload related issues. It is clear that the overwhelming majority of you are under significant pressure to comply with unrealistic workload expectations. This includes requiring working additional, unpaid hours and completing work outside of ordinary working hours. It is also evident that a significant number of members have seriously considered seeking alternative employment due to ongoing the ongoing workload level.

Bargaining principles

The maintenance of current terms and conditions, including reasonable annual pay increases, will be the primary focus for the CPSU NSW during bargaining. The ongoing level of remuneration represents an acknowledgement of the competence and dedication of members and any proposed reduction would be seen as a slap in the face.

Additionally, Australian Unity has indicated that retention of existing staff is an important aspect of their strategy. The CPSU NSW agrees with this objective and we will continue to argue that improving the work/life balance of employment will go a long way in achieving this aim.

The overarching principle that will guide us through bargaining is:

To preserve existing terms and conditions while addressing work/life balance.

Notice of Employee Representational Rights

Members can expect to receive a new Notice of Employee Representational Rights (NERR) from Australian Unity this week. This notice is a formality and advises employees of their right to appoint a bargaining representative. As a CPSU NSW member, there is no need to respond this notice as your union is your bargaining agent.

Bargaining strength

Through collective bargaining, we have an opportunity to secure your working conditions for years to come. In order to achieve the best possible outcome from this negotiation, it is important for CPSU NSW members to be united and strong. We are therefore requesting that members discuss the importance of the present negotiation with colleagues, including those who are currently non-members. It is important  to encourage others to consider the significance of uniting to achieve our collective goals and joining the CPSU NSW.