We know flexible working is a significant matter of concern to our members.

Following the Department of Education announcement of proposed changes to flexible working arrangements, and expectations that staff return to working in the office in accordance with the Premiers’ Circular C2024-03 NSW Government Sector Workplace Presence published on 5 August 2024 the PSA held several member meetings to gather your feedback on this important issue.

The PSA can advise that late last year we compiled and provided your feedback and advocated for the department to maintain best practice flexible working in your workplace.

The PSA can assure our Education Support Staff (ESS) members that we previously engaged in comprehensive consultation over Flexible Working Arrangements Provisions, advocating for all roles to access flexibility on an ‘If Not, Why Not?’  basis and will be fighting to ensure this remain.

Patterns of Attendance

The department’s proposal does not prescribe particular patterns of attendance, however the expectation is that all staff will work principally from an approved office, workplace or related work site, as expressed in the Premier’s circular.

Your employer may direct employees in relation to their working arrangements if the direction is lawful and reasonable.

What’s next?

The PSA strongly encouraged members to complete the survey on the proposed changes and approval settings to express any individual impacts and to inform office accommodation requirements during the feedback period last year.

We understand ESS staff have been invited to attend a Town Hall meeting on 27 February 2025 to be updated on the Flexible Working Arrangements Procedure amongst other things.

PSA: supporting members collectively and on an individual basis 

The PSA has asked to be provided with consolidated feedback and the intended communications on the Flexible Working Arrangements procedure prior to the all-staff meeting and will continue to advocate on an ‘If Not, Why Not?’  basis.

Members with particular circumstances, including carer’s responsibilities and/or disability or medical conditions can be assured that the PSA will continue to advocate for the department to support reasonable adjustments.

The PSA will continue to communicate with members about this issue following the Town Hall next week.

Remember if you have an individual concern, please contact the PSA Member Support Centre for assistance.