PSA dispute update Lismore and Tuggerah Homes Concierge model

The PSA has two disputes running regarding the concierge model in Lismore and Tuggerah Homes sites.

The PSA is directing members not to work at the concierge desk while we are in dispute. If you are placed on the roster to work at the desk inform management that you are a PSA member and will not be working at the concierge desk while the PSA is in dispute. Direction to work at the concierge desk would be considered an unlawful direction and breaching the status quo. Advise the PSA if this has happened to you as soon as possible.

Lismore

The PSA was provided with a response by Homes NSW executive as to the issues raised in the dispute meeting and subsequent response detailed in previous PSA bulletin (link to homes bulletin HERE).

Homes responded:

The frosted glass on the corner window was removed 30 July 2025.
Home provided a roster for the concierge desk and stated the roster was fair and equitable and provided an even distribution of shifts.
Homes advised that all staff have now received the required training to safely perform duties at the concierge desk.
Staffing shortages have now been addressed.
Homes highlighted that one of the key accountabilities of a client service officer includes: “Work directly with clients and their advocates to provide advice and assistance on housing options based on assessment of eligibility and client need and keeping with legislation, policies and procedures.”
Staff will not be rostered on the concierge all day, allowing time for sensitive work to be completed and that staff will be able to complete day to day duties while working at the desk due to security guard.
The concierge desk was removed from Mt Druitt as it had only been implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic as a health and safety measure. The PSA was consulted at the time. Its subsequent removal was due to updated medical advice and infrastructure limitations.
Homes will provide information on how the concierge desk reduces client escalation and the WHS quarterly reports for Campbelltown at the next dispute meeting.

The PSA responded on 9 September 2025:

The PSA asked for detail regarding the training that has been completed as we are aware that staff are still completing the training outlined in the SafeWork Practices.
PSA requested a review of the WHS Risk Assessment dated July 2024 due to the removal of the second security guard and significant WHS incidents since the site was opened. This Risk assessment should include staff consultation.
Staffing issues have not been addressed and there has been further staff resignations since the notification of the dispute.
PSA raised concern that the added duty of working at the concierge desk increases the workload of our members. There is a roster for the phones, a roster for the concierge desk and will there be an equitable roster for the counter as well?
Request for research supporting the DCJ design guide before the next meeting so the PSA has time to view this material.
Request for WHS quarterly data for Campbelltown district and Lismore office prior to the meeting. Despite repeated requests Homes has still not provided this information.
Clarification on whether the concierge staffing model having two staff on a roster is standard across districts or just the Northern District.
DCJ workplace design guide lacks reference to Work Health & Safety Act 2011 No.10.
Concerns about the lack of physical separation of staff and clients and which increases exposure to physical and psychosocial hazards in the concierge model. Request for explanation on how DCJ applies WHS Regulation 2017, Part 3.1 sections 32–37, to the concierge model.

The PSA and Delegates are due to meet with Homes executive early next week and an update will be provided to members at Lismore and Tuggerah.

A calendar invite for an online meeting for members from Tweed Heads, Lismore and Grafton has been sent to members. After members requested an urgent meeting to discuss staff vacancies and excessive workload.

Meeting details

Date Thursday 18 September 2025

Time 1:00pm.

Join the meeting now

Meeting ID 424 797 869 630 3

Passcode Ng2Wr3iW

Any Homes NSW members that would like to provide feedback about the dispute and the concierge model contact Regional Organiser Rebecca Reilly or 0419980503.

Art Gallery of NSW members and supporters do it again: rally at Parliament House

Just two weeks after a powerful walkout protesting cuts at the Art Gallery of NSW, members and supporters have once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to protecting the integrity and quality of the AGNSW.

This time, the lunchtime walkout went all the way to Parliament House, ensuring our voices were heard loud and clear by those in power.

The PSA thanks every member and supporter who took part in this action. Your strong, spirited show of solidarity sent a clear message, and it was heard not only in Parliament, but also across a wide range of media outlets that reported on our action.

This protest was strategically timed to coincide with the final day for feedback on the proposed Change Management Plan. The PSA has submitted its formal response (which can be seen HERE), and following the Parliament House action, PSA delegates and staff met with the AGNSW Director to discuss our concerns and outline the key points of our submission (letter to AGNSW CEO can be seen HERE).

We now await the AGNSW’s response and expect them to revise the Change Management Plan accordingly.

This is what union strength looks like. United, we will continue to stand up for fair treatment, transparency, and respect for the work we do and the value we bring to the community.

What else can I do?

Continue to distribute the ART ATTACK flyer widely across your networks, noticeboards, and online channels.
Email the Minister for the Arts, John Graham. Every voice counts.
Ask a non-member to join the PSA . We are stronger together.

Contacts

PSA Workplace Delegates

James Ricupito

Nik Rieth

Sharne Fielder

Daniel Kilp

Owen Lewis

William Newell

Emma Hayman

PSA staff

Claudia Bianchi Organiser

Greg Shaw Senior Industrial Officer

Hello world!

Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start writing!

Public Service Association Demands an End to Cuts at the Art Gallery of NSW: “Stop the Art Attack!”

The Public Service Association (PSA), the union representing workers at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, has today called on the NSW Government and Art Gallery management to halt a damaging restructure that would see 51 jobs axed and $7.5 million cut from the institution’s budget.

PSA Assistant General Secretary Troy Wright says the planned cuts need to be halted immediately.

“This is not reform — it’s a calculated attack on the people who bring this Gallery to life,” Mr Wright said.

“Cutting 51 roles from the core workforce while shielding executives and consultants is not change, it’s carnage.

The proposed cuts, outlined in the so-called Change Management Plan distributed in mid-August, come as the Art Gallery enjoys record-breaking success.

With over 2.3 million visitors in the past year — a staggering 84% increase from pre-COVID levels — AGNSW is the 26th most visited gallery in the world.

“Why is one of Australia’s most successful cultural institutions being punished for its success?” Mr Wright asked.

“The staff facing the axe are not sitting behind closed doors — they are curators, educators, designers, and public-facing professionals who make the AGNSW world-class.”

The PSA has also raised alarm about the departments most affected, such as Design, while directorates like Philanthropy, Major Gifts, and Business Development remain untouched — despite comprising 20% of the workforce.

“Let’s be real, the cuts aren’t falling evenly,” said Mr Wright.

The union has also rejected comparisons to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), a model repeatedly referenced by Treasury and Gallery management.

“If the plan is to remake AGNSW in the image of the NGV, let me remind you: the NGV is a cautionary tale, not a benchmark,” said Mr Wright.

Reports of toxic workplace culture, burnout, and inappropriate behaviour should not be ignored — they should be avoided at all costs,” Mr Wright stated.

The PSA further highlighted concerns around unpaid labour, noting the surge in volunteer hours — up from 236 volunteers last year to 297 this year — raising fears that paid, unionised jobs will be replaced with unpaid or contract roles.

“This creeping reliance on volunteerism is a red flag. It’s not about community engagement — it’s about cost-cutting by stealth,” Mr Wright warned.

The union is urging the public, gallery-goers, and cultural advocates across the state to speak out in defence of the Gallery’s workforce and to demand a halt to the restructure.

“We’re not against change. We’re against cuts that gut the Gallery while protecting privilege,” Mr Wright said.

“This institution doesn’t just hang art — it hangs onto the dedication, skill, and passion of its people. And we intend to protect them,” Wright concluded.

Key Demands from the PSA:

Stop the Art Attack
Save the $7.5 million earmarked for cuts
Protect the 51 jobs on the line
Reject the NGV comparison model
End the overreliance on unpaid labour

The PSA stands ready to negotiate real, sustainable change that strengthens the Art Gallery of NSW — not weakens it.

Media Contact: Tim Brunero 0405 285 547

Service NSW – Rounding Rules Dispute

Further to our earlier bulletin dated 3 Sept 2025 (view here) the PSA has advised Service NSW that we are in dispute with them in relation to the overtime rounding rules.

The PSA will follow the dispute process and meet with Service NSW to try to resolve the matter before escalating if necessary to the Industrial Relations Commission of NSW.

In the meantime we ask that you:

Continue to keep a record of any overtime worked

If you have further questions or concerns please contact MSC on 1800 772 679 or and quote reference number 10007778.

Office of Children’s Guardian member meeting

The PSA will be having a member meeting on Monday 22 September 2025 to report back on the outcomes of the Joint Consultative Committee meeting (being held tomorrow).

Date: Monday 22 September 2025

Time: 12.30pm – 1.30pm

Location: Office of Children’s Guardian Office, Strawberry Hills

Meeting Room SH Woronora

If you are unable to attend in person kindly join online

Join the meeting now

Meeting ID: 439 117 615 874 9

Passcode: ws6QF3rt

If you have any questions or concerns relating to your workplace, you can contact the Member Support Centre on 1800 772 679, or PSA Industrial Staff listed below

Alex Sala Organiser

Graydon Welsh Industrial Officer

Art Gallery Staff March on NSW Parliament House

WHAT: Art Gallery of NSW workers walk off the job & protest

WHEN: 12.30pm, 16th September

WHERE: NSW Parliament house (front)

Public Service Association Demands an End to Cuts at the Art Gallery of NSW: “Stop the Art Attack!”

PSA Assistant General Secretary Troy Wright says the planned cuts need to be halted immediately.

“This is not reform — it’s a calculated attack on the people who bring this Gallery to life,” Mr Wright said.

“Cutting 51 roles from the core workforce while shielding executives and consultants is not change, it’s carnage.”