Following the Secretary’s message to staff yesterday about the changes to some of the COVID-19 restrictions for the general public in NSW, your Delegates and PSA staff representatives met with Senior Officers of the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) earlier today.

Importantly there will be NO immediate changes made to current practices while Senior Officers look at what may be appropriate in the different areas of DCJ under the new arrangements announced by the Premier.

The current risk assessments that are in place will be reviewed in light of the announcement and any proposed changes to them will be subject to consultation with the PSA prior to implementation.

The Department has responsibilities that differ greatly from area to area and there is no one-size-fits-all solution to the challenges faced by staff in carrying out their work with vulnerable communities in a safe and effective manner.

Please keep a look out for updates and communication from your respective Deputy Secretaries and please remember that the current risk assessments, working from home arrangements, use of PPE/PPC and other COVID-safe practices remain in place.