As you would be aware, the union lodged a dispute yesterday regarding the ERT rostered that was implemented on 2 January 2023. This model detached ERT from a particular neighbourhood and saw that they adopted a ‘roving’ model instead, similar to the IAT model used in state prisons.
It was the union’s view that the decision to implement a roving ERT model which simultaneously halved the number of ERT in Male Maximum drastically reduced the response capability on the day, and five employees were injured as a result. Had there been a consultative process to discuss and explore the changes that were made, such risks would have been raised and workshopped. Serco’s failure to consult removed the ability to properly assess risks associated with the new ERT model, including the risk of the response time being reduced. Last week’s incident was avoidable, and yet it occurred as a direct result of a lackadaisical approach to risk management coupled with a complete disregard of Serco’s legislative obligations.
Late yesterday afternoon, Serco advised that they would be withdrawing the roster, and reverting back to the old model. This means that ERT will continue to operate in the same way that they did prior to 2 January 2023.
The union considers the dispute to have been resolved.
The union is planning to be on-site either late next week or early the week after to speak with members. We will likely have set dates by Monday next week, so please keep an eye out for communication from us. In the meantime, if you want to talk about anything – rosters or otherwise – please email Jess () or Kim (), or speak to one of your union delegates.
