NSW Government to FACS staff – ‘Merry Christmas. You’re Sacked!’ – December 2016 (PDF version)

The Department of Family and Community Services (FACS) has floated a reorganisation of the agency, which includes savage cuts to public service jobs.

Under the Cluster Operating Model, the Department has outlined plans to shed at least 700 front-line support jobs across Sydney and regional NSW. More jobs are expected to go as further cuts are announced to corporate and state-wide services in coming weeks.

The PSA is meeting with the Department today to discuss the agency’s change management planning, and has sought further information on the exact number of job losses and their locations across the state.

Earlier this month we wrote to FACS Secretary, Michael Coutts-Trotter, to request every effort be made to minimise adverse effects on FACS staff, including an up-front voluntary redundancy program.

Read the letter HERE.

FACS has so far refused to commit to this, pointing to new government policy preventing general voluntary redundancy programs.

“The Baird government likes to talk up its record on jobs in NSW, but the reality doesn’t match the rhetoric,” said PSA Assistant Secretary, Troy Wright.

“Good jobs and critical public services are being slashed and privatised at an unprecedented rate.

“It’s a massive Christmastime kick in the guts to FACS workers in disability services, child protection and Housing NSW.

“Many of these jobs are in regional and remote NSW where comparable employment simply isn’t available. The loss of public sector jobs in these areas has a profound impact on the local economy and community.

“The PSA will seek a meeting with new National Party Deputy Premier, John Barilaro, to express our concerns and request his intervention.”

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