PSA Lismore Meet your regional organiser, Asren Pugh – July 2017 (PDF version)

Asren (left) pictured with staff from the Acmena Juvenile Justice facility in South Grafton.

 

How long have you been with the PSA?

Since the end of April.

How long have you worked in industrial relations?

I have over 10 years’ experience in fighting for members rights and organising in unions. I was previously the Assistant Secretary of the Australian Services Union and was responsible for members in the Public Sector, Private Sector and Non-Government Sector.

I have represented members in the NSW IRC and Fair Work Australia. I have also overseen the transition of some workplaces, such as Sydney Water, from Award-based bargaining in the NSW IR system through to Enterprise Agreement-based bargaining in the Federal Fair Work system.

What do you hope you will achieve in your new job?

I am passionate about growing our union and supporting members to stand up to become delegates in their own workplaces. Strong delegates make a strong union. In my short time on the job it has become very clear bullying, workloads and lack of consultation, as well as the outsourcing of vital public services, are all huge issues for members.

What challenges do you face working in such a large area?

The main challenge is being able to get around and see all the workplaces, while also supporting members face to face when they need it. This is why delegates and strong communication are the key to having a strong union. Where the organiser can’t get around to everyone, delegates in the workplace can.

To get Asren to visit your workplace, call the MSC on 1300 772 679.