Northcott has obligations under the Northcott Enterprise Agreement to consult with impacted employees and their union when proposing workplace changes that may affect our members.
CPSU NSW is a party to the Northcott Enterprise Agreement.
The Agreement contains clear consultation requirements that apply when Northcott is seriously considering workplace changes that may significantly affect employees, including changes that may lead to job losses, changes to work arrangements, changes to staffing structures, relocation of employees, restructuring of roles, or other significant workplace impacts.
Consultation is not a process that begins after decisions have already been made
The Northcott Enterprise Agreement requires Northcott to engage with affected employees and their union as part of the consultation process.
Genuine consultation means Northcott must provide relevant information, discuss the proposed changes and their impacts, listen to concerns, and feedback, and give genuine consideration to matters raised before final decisions are made.
CPSU NSW has put Northcott on notice
CPSU NSW has formally raised concerns with Northcott regarding its consultation obligations under the Enterprise Agreement.
We have made it clear that Northcott must comply with the Agreement and properly consult with impacted members and CPSU NSW regarding any proposed changes.
This includes providing timely information, engaging in meaningful discussions and ensuring the consultation process allows members and their union to provide feedback before decisions are finalised.
Proposed closures of Northcott group homes
CPSU NSW has been informed that Northcott appears to be considering the closure of group homes that may impact workers, services and the people supported, including:
- Woodbine Group Home – 67 North Steyne Road
- Lavington Group Home – 528 Comans Avenue
Any proposed closure of these services has the potential to significantly impact employees, their working arrangements, and the people they support.
Our members have a right to be properly informed and consulted before any final decisions are made.
Members: know your rights
If you are impacted by proposed changes:
- Contact CPSU NSW and ensure your union is involved in discussions;
- Request that CPSU NSW is invited to consultation meetings;
- Keep copies of any information, correspondence or notices provided by Northcott;
- Raise concerns if you believe consultation is not occurring properly.
CPSU NSW will continue to support members and ensure Northcott respects the consultation obligations contained in the Northcott Enterprise Agreement.
Enterprise bargaining — CPSU NSW is ready to commence negotiations
CPSU NSW, your union, has written to Northcott on multiple occasions seeking to recommence Enterprise Bargaining negotiations for a new Enterprise Agreement.
Northcott’s most recent response was that it was waiting for other unions to respond before commencing bargaining.
Our members deserve an Enterprise Agreement that recognises the important work they do and delivers improved working conditions, fair wages, secure employment and appropriate workplace protections.
CPSU NSW will continue to advocate strongly for members and fight for improvements that reflect the value of the work performed across Northcott.
Standing together through your union
This situation highlights the importance of workers raising concerns through their union and the critical role of CPSU NSW in ensuring employers meet their consultation obligations before making changes that affect staffing, workloads and service delivery.
By standing together and engaging through CPSU NSW, members can ensure their voices are heard and that workplace changes are properly considered through a genuine consultation process.
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