Government to investigate new ways to administer portable long service leave in NSW - Public Service Association

Government to investigate new ways to administer portable long service leave in NSW

Treasurer and Minister for Industrial Relations Mike Baird today announced the NSW Government will undertake a scoping study to improve the governance and administration of the state’s two portable long service schemes for the construction and contract cleaning industries.

“We are interested in the schemes that operate in Victoria and Tasmania, which were transferred to industry more than 15 years ago and have the flexibility to be more aligned to the needs of their members,” Mr Baird said.

“The schemes that are run independently of government have the flexibility to be more responsive to industry and provide members with greater control over where their funds are invested. For example, Tasmania’s TasBuild invests funds in infrastructure projects to create more construction jobs for its sector.

“A scoping study will be undertaken and reform only pursued if it is in the best interests of members and taxpayers.

“Importantly, if changes are recommended, we would ensure industry is consulted, Long Service Corporation employees are protected and all jobs are retained in the Central Coast,” Mr Baird said.

“Members of these portable long service leave schemes have been let down in the past with the former NSW Labor Government raiding these funds when it suited them.

“NSW Labor seized $120 million in 1995-96 and a further $60 million in 1996-97 from these long service leave funds, despite the entitlements being accrued by workers in the construction industry.

“The O’Farrell Government has been clear that if there is a better way of delivering a government service that exceeds current standards and delivers better results for NSW, we have a responsibility to consider it.

“There will be no changes without consultation with stakeholders to ensure improved results for members of the schemes and taxpayers of the state,” Mr Baird said.

NSW Government media release – Long Service Corporation scoping study Nov 2013 (PDF)

FAQs – Long Service Corporation scoping study – 8 November 2013 (PDF)

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