CPSU, the Community and Public Sector Union SPSF Group New South Wales Branch: Federal Vice-President, Branch Representative and Delegates to Federal Council Nominations
The below links are in regards to the Community and Public Sector Union (SPSF Group) Federal Vice-President, Branch Representative to Federal Council and Delegate to Federal Council Election administered and conducted by the Australian Electoral Commission, and is also posted on the CPSU-SPSF website.
Election Notice and Nomination Form – Federal Vice-President
Following the State of the Sector briefing to hear about the issues faced by Professional Staff in NSW Universities your CPSU NSW delegates and staff have been working behind the scenes and in your workplaces to fight the dramatic cuts to Professional Staff jobs.
Write to your MP
It is vitally important that we raise the profile of Professional Staff with political representatives and leaders in NSW.
The CPSU NSW has prepared a letter that you can use to raise your concerns with the federal Minister for Education the Hon. Jason Clare, State Minister for Tertiary Education the Hon. (Steve) Steven James Wahn, and your local state and federal MPs.
We all know that Professional Staff play an integral role in universities, one that must not be drowned out by the voices and needs of academic staff.
CLICK HERE to make your voice heard and raise the profile of professional staff cuts with political representatives.
The CPSU NSW submission to NSW Parliament
Your union is preparing a submission to the Inquiry into the New South Wales university sector and we want to hear from you.
The CPSU NSW will be distributing a survey to all members in universities so you can have your say. In the meantime, if you would like to be involved in the preparation of the submission, please contact your local delegates or the CPSU NSW at .
Two easy things you can do to support your union
Support the work of the CPSU NSW and delegates by asking your colleagues to JOIN their union.
If members you work with have not received this bulletin and are already members forward this bulletin to them and ask them to update their details through our MEMBER PORTAL.
If you have any questions about this bulletin, please contact the Member Support Centre on 1800 772 679.
Contacts
Find up to date information on delegates at your university on the CPSU NSW website.
Have your say on the new NSW Government Workforce Mobility Placement and Employee Transition policy
The PSA is seeking your input into the new NSW Government Workforce Mobility Placement and Employee Transition policy.
Members have laboured under the 2012 version of the Managing Excess Employees (MEE) policy for far too long. It is this policy that has forced thousands of public servants to take a so called “Voluntary Redundancies” (VR). The MEE contained financial penalties to anyone who did not take a VR “up front” and attempted to find another job within the government sector.
That was why the PSA negotiated the new Workforce Mobility Placement (WMP) policy with the incoming government, a policy that forces Agencies to undertake a compulsory period of assessment for redeployment prior to the MEE policy being activated.
As part of the Memorandum of Understanding negotiations in 2024 the PSA and the government agreed to consolidate the new WMP policy with the former Liberal government era MEE policy, to create one clear policy that focused on redeploying public servants whose roles no longer exist.
The clear aim of both the government and the PSA is to promote policies that work towards rebuilding the NSW Public Service and providing improved services to the people of New South Wales.
The draft policy has now been negotiated and is being put out to members for consideration. You can view the draft HERE
The new draft policy has as its core aims:
To serve as a mechanism to retain public servants within government;
Maintain the new eight week period of intensive redeployment efforts as created by the WMP policy;
Afford each public servant a total of 12 weeks period of intensive redeployment efforts before any employee can be forcibly made redundant; and
No employee to be disadvantaged financially from exercising their right to seek redeployment.
Once you’ve had a look at the new policy, please take the time to fill in the survey linked below (estimated time two minutes) and give us your thoughts. The survey cane be found HERE.
Members comments will guide the PSA as it continues to work with the government on improving its policies to protect the jobs of public servants and rebuild the Public Service.
Over the last few months, the PSA has been in dispute with the NSW Police Force (NSWPF) regarding the long-standing practice of not affording any compensation to rostered employees where their Recurrent Leave Day (RLD) falls on a public holiday. For years, members have raised this issue with the PSA, with the internal rostering guidelines strictly prohibiting roster manipulation that may have benefited employees including in situations where their RLD falls on a public holiday.
This matter was rapidly moving towards an arbitrated hearing in the Industrial Relations Commission. However, we have recently come to an in-principle agreement with the NSWPF that we are happy to present to the membership for ballot. Summarised details of this settlement are as follows:
The NSWPF will apply clause 89.6.2 of the Crown Employees (NSW Police Force Administrative Officers and Temporary Employees) Award 2009 to any RLDs which fall on a Public Holiday. Clause 89.6.2 provides:
89.6.2 A shift worker rostered off duty on a Public Holiday may elect to be paid one day’s pay for that public holiday or to have one day added to his/her annual holidays for each such day;
The NSWPF will undertake a review of all administrative shiftworkers and apply the above clause to any RLDs which fell within the six-year claim period. Being 28 February 2019 to 28 February 2025.
The NSWPF will backpay any employees that point 2 applies to over the identified 6-year period. The parties will engage in further discussions regarding the process to affect this backpay.
The PSA agrees that clause 89.6.2 of the Award does not apply to an employee rostered on a free of work day.
The PSA agrees that a “days pay” and “one day” in respect of Clause 89.6.2 is either 7 hours (for 35 hour per week employees) or 7.6 hours (for 38 hour per week employees).
The PSA agrees that the revised Flexible Rostering Guidelines for Administrative Employees (Attachment A document found HERE) reflect the agreed position between the parties in the form of a local arrangement as set out in clause 12 of the Crown Employees (NSW Police Force Administrative Officers and Temporary Employees) Award 2009
The PSA endorses this offer of settlement for these proceedings. The only item that we foresee as being a discussion point for our membership is point No. 4. – where we are agreeing that if a public holiday falls on a free of workday, there is no claim. Those on rosters would be aware of free workdays and where they are present on a roster.
The PSA, is and always will be a democratic union, therefore it has been decided to put this offer to members. Members can have their say by using the following link HERE.
“Final outcome should not be the same as that proposed“: Meeting with Minister for the Arts, John Graham on Art Gallery budget cuts
Today, representatives from the Public Service Association (PSA), including General Secretary Stewart Little, met with the Minister for the Arts, the Hon. John Graham, to discuss the proposed budget cuts at the Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW).
The Minister was open and receptive to the concerns raised by the PSA. While he acknowledged the formal consultation process must be allowed to run its course, he clearly recognised the essential and specialised work performed by Gallery staff. He reaffirmed his commitment to a strong and viable AGNSW under his portfolio.
During the meeting, the PSA expressed deep concern regarding the impact that the proposed role reductions would have on the Gallery’s ability to develop and maintain its exhibitions and uphold its national and international reputation. The PSA also raised ongoing concerns regarding the continued engagement of consultants and the apparent protection of executive roles, in contrast to the proposed cuts affecting frontline staff who contribute directly to the Gallery’s success.
Importantly, the Minister indicated he does not expect the final outcome of the consultation process to mirror the initial proposal. This is a positive indication that the feedback from staff and the PSA is being taken seriously, and that meaningful changes to the proposed cuts are expected.
The Minister also agreed to meet with PSA delegates and the AGNSW Director before the conclusion of the consultation process.
The PSA will continue to represent and advocate strongly on behalf of members throughout this process. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
Parliament House Action: Tuesday 16 September 2025
Members and supporters are reminded of the planned lunchtime action at Parliament House on Tuesday, 16 September, commencing at 12:30pm.
This action marks the final day for feedback in the consultation process and is a vital opportunity for Gallery staff to stand together and make their voices heard. Your presence will send a powerful message to decision-makers about the value of the work you do and the importance of protecting jobs that sustain the cultural and artistic reputation of the AGNSW.
We encourage all members and supporters to attend and show solidarity.
Taronga Conservation Society reminder: The People Matter Employment Survey closes tomorrow
The annual People Matter Employment Survey (PMES) will close tomorrow, Friday 12 September 2025. We strongly encourages all members to complete the survey.
Honest feedback is essential as your responses help both Taronga Conservation Society Australia and your union, the Public Service Association of NSW (PSA) to advocate for a better and fairer workplace.
Members have asked the PSA if the survey is anonymous and confidential. We can confirm that it is. The survey is a safe, confidential space to share your experiences and concerns.
We urge you to use your voice and take this opportunity to have a say in how Taronga Conservation Society Australia is being managed.
Your feedback matters
By completing the PMES, you help shape a better future for your workplace.
Dispute update: PSA gains concessions on “savings target” and use of labour hire
The Public Service Association of NSW (PSA) was back in the Industrial Relations Commission (IRC) yesterday in relation to the current proposal to cut up to 950 positions from Transport for NSW (TfNSW).
Following another lengthy conciliation, the unions representing TFNSW employees were able to gain a number of concessions and commitments, aimed at saving the number of job cuts needed to achieve the organisation’s “savings target”.
With the assistance of the IRC, the unions have gained an agreement there will be a further IRC-facilitated consultation process around the very need to make savings by cutting Award and Transport Senior Service Manager (TSSM) roles.
This will allow the unions to seek and receive documentation to enable them to put forward counter proposals to make savings which do not include the need to cut 950 Award and TSSM roles. In a key concession, any disagreement about a union request, will be facilitated by the IRC, with the Commission to have the ability to make recommendations to that affect.
This process is initially set for four weeks, but importantly may be extended depending on the view of the IRC as to the progress of the discussions.
Throughout this process, the TfNSW unions are seeking to influence the decision-making in how the stated $414 million in savings (including $279 million to be saved through job cuts) is actually achieved, rather than consultation solely on the “process” of achieving job cuts.
What does this mean?
The PSA has been vocal since the announcement was made on 23 July 2025, that if there is a need to make savings, TfNSW should consider the more than 1100 Transport Senior Service Executives (TSSEs) on the books at Transport. It makes no sense that Transport continues to employ more than 1100 TSSEs (approximately one in four of the entire Government Sector), whilst cutting up to 950 Award positions. Our previous bulletins and media appearances have expressed this.
The above facilitated process means the plan to cut Award roles, whilst protecting TSSEs, can be scrutinised on the record at the IRC, rather than simply dismissed as it has been so far. We will be seeking documentation relevant to this.
Senior Executives not the only way to make savings
The PSA knows that there are many other sensible, achievable ideas from our members as to how to make savings, without the need to cut jobs. The above process will allow them to be put to and considered by the Transport Secretary, with any disagreement as to their relevance facilitated by the IRC.
Send us your plans
We encourage members to send their specific ways they believe TfNSW can make savings without the need to cut jobs to the TfNSW@PSA Mailbox (). This mailbox can be used for these potential savings.
However, if you have a specific individual industrial matter you need assistance with, please continue to contact the Member Support Centre ().
Consultation on “branch design” can continue, but no determination until after this process is finalised
Unfortunately, TfNSW would not agree to continue to pause consultation on “branch design” whilst the above facilitated process is undertaken. However, TfNSW has agreed that:
No “determinations” can occur until the IRC-facilitated process has concluded. This allows us to potentially find any savings elsewhere and directly change the proposed outcome from TfNSW.
TfNSW also confirmed that with placement processes, and workforce mobility processes, there will be no job cuts before Christmas.
Of relevance to members in the Operational Asset Assurance Branch, Investment and Assurance Branch, People Operations Branch, and People and Culture Branch, your formal consultation period closes today, Thursday 11 September 2025.
The PSA will be submitting feedback based on your proposed design. We wish to make it clear that as there can be no final determination until after the IRC process is finalised, we will be ensuring that any other savings gained are considered in respect to your branches also.
We wish to also make it clear that it was the unions’ position that no consultation on any branch (including these branches) would occur whilst we were in dispute discussions, but this was not the outcome of the dispute.
Commitments on labour hire to reduce the number of jobs cut
A major area of relevance is the continued use of labour hire whilst TfNSW plans to cut Award roles. TfNSW has agreed that all positions that are currently filled by labour hire resources will be reviewed on a branch by branch basis, including:
Reviewing the 313 labour hire resources that are not attached to an Award position, identify if the role is needed in the future, and either remove that role or have it graded and converted to a position that an affected employee can be placed in. Both of these options will lead to a TfNSW employee keeping a job.
Reviewing the 395 labour hire resources that are currently attached to Award roles, identify if the role is needed in the future, and either remove that role or have that role filled by an affected direct permanent employee. Both of these options will lead to a TfNSW employee keeping a job.
There will need to be consideration as to what skills may be required in the above roles, including whether there are any specific skills that preclude the above. Importantly an explanation of those skills will be provided for scrutiny.
Every labour hire position removed, or converted to a TfNSW position for affected direct permanent employees to be placed in, is an Award position saved.
Member meetings
We understand that members will have significant questions around the above, and other aspects of TfNSW’s plans. We will be distributing details of member meetings, which will need to be scheduled around the above intensive IRC-facilitated discussions, and other branch-specific consultation meetings once they are known.
Contacts
TfNSW @ PSA mailbox for general savings plans and feedback on the operating model
Member Support Centre for specific individual industrial matters requiring assistance
Your PSA Delegates
Safety, Policy, Environment and Regulation Rachael Knight
Nathan Sweeney
Office of Children’s Guardian Parliamentary Inquiry
As you would likely be aware, the Ministerial Inquiry into the Office of Children’s Guardian (OCG) was tabled in Parliament on Wednesday 10 September 2025. Minister Washington tabled the Public Report after announcing that the Guardian, Steve Kinmond, had been removed due to ‘misbehaviour’.
A big part of the Inquiry was around culture and the day-to-day operation of the Office. The Terms of Reference (TOR) sought to look at workplace culture, systems, grievances and concerns being raised.
Many of the 21 findings and 16 recommendations lead towards changing the culture and working within appropriate policies and procedures. Concerns that have been raised by the PSA and its members in the past.
The PSA applauds the Ministers actions in bringing about the Inquiry and taking decisive steps, and we look forward to working with the OCG and future Guardian to bring about positive changes to the workplace culture.
Our members work within an environment under immense pressure and exposed to considerable scrutiny. They deserve to work in a safe workplace that supports them to do this most critical work.
Art Attack – support the Art Gallery of NSW: ACTION at Parliament House
Following the successful lunchtime walkout by PSA members at the Art Gallery of NSW (AGNSW) on Wednesday 27 August, all PSA members and supporters are invited to take part in the next important action on:
Tuesday 16 September 2025
12.30pm – 1.15pm
Parliament House of NSW, Macquarie St
This is a key moment. It’s the final day to provide feedback on the proposed 10 per cent cut to the AGNSW workforce. A move that would see 51 jobs lost in an effort to save $7.5 million.
With both houses of parliament sitting, this is PSA members’ opportunity to make our voices heard and demand that the cuts be stopped. A strong, united presence will show that our jobs, and the future of the Gallery, matter.
Bring your creativity!
We encourage you to bring bold, artistic placards, signs, and banners. Let’s show our passion for the arts, and the people who make it happen.
What else can I do?
Spread the word. Invite your colleagues. These cuts impact everyone at the AGNSW by increasing workloads and threatening the integrity of the institution.
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.
Art Attack: Support the Art Gallery of NSW action at Parliament House
Following the successful lunchtime walkout by Public Service Association of NSW (PSA) members at the Art Gallery of NSW (AGNSW) on Wednesday 27 August, all PSA members and supporters are invited to show their support by participating in the next important action on:
Tuesday 16 September 2025
12.30pm-1.15pm
NSW Parliament House, Macquarie Street, Sydney
This is a key moment. It’s the final day for the PSA and AGNSW staff provide feedback on the proposed 10 per cent-plus cut to the AGNSW workforce. A move that would see 51 jobs lost in an effort to save $7.5 million.
With both houses of parliament sitting, this is PSA members’ opportunity to make our voices heard and demand that the cuts be stopped. A strong, united presence will show that our jobs, and the future of the Gallery, matter.
AGNSW staff will be arriving at 12:30pm. Please show your support by standing with them outside Parliament House.
Bring your creativity!
We encourage you to bring bold, artistic placards, signs, and banners. Let’s show our passion for the arts, and the people who make it happen.
What else can I do?
Spread the word. Invite your colleagues.
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.
Have you done it yet? The People Matter Employee Survey is more important than ever
Every year the NSW Government collects data from staff through the People Matter Employee Survey (PMES).
You can fill in the Department of Education PMES HERE.
The PMES can highlight where things are going right, where there are issues and what might need to change.
The Public Service Association (PSA) encourages all members to complete the People Matter Employee Survey. The union relies on the data collected to push departments across the public service to implement change to better support members.
Why is it important?
Over the years the PSA has been able to advocate for significant changes to improve staff wellbeing and culture, communication and change management processes due to data collected by your employer.
It also demonstrates trends over time, ensuring we can see if initiatives, programs and changes have had an impact in the long term.
Two easy things you can do to support your union:
Support the work of the PSA and delegates by asking your colleagues to JOIN their union.
If members you work with have not received this bulletin and are already members forward this bulletin to them and ask them to update their details through our MEMBER PORTAL
Contact
If you have any questions about this bulletin, please email
