Environment Protection Authority: Consultation extended
On Monday 3 November 2025 the Public Service Association (PSA) appeared before the Industrial Relations Commission regarding the proposed restructure and job cuts at the EPA.
The discussions were productive, with the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and PSA agreeing to the following:
- The EPA will provide current org charts identifying the roles proposed to be deleted
- The EPA will provide the criteria for the matching of roles
- The EPA will clearly outline the proposed closed Expression of Interest (EOI) process.
Further to this, the PSA requested through the Commission consultation be extended to allow our member additional time to provide feedback. The EPA agreed to extend to 19 November 2025. The matter is back before the Commission for a report back on 17 November 2025.
The PSA is continuing to seek the consultants’ reports used to justify the proposed changes, with conversations with the EPA Executive ongoing. At this point the EPA will not provide it.
EOI process
The EPA has proposed a closed EOI process for directly impacted EO12s to apply for newly created EO14 positions. The PSA is particularly concerned about the inherent unfairness of opening promotional opportunities to only some. The PSA is of the view new EO14 roles should be open to all EO12s to apply via the EOI process. Any vacant EO12 positions left vacant after this EOI process could then be filled from any displaced EO12s, allowing the EPA to retain more staff.
The PSA will continue to engage the membership, oppose the cuts, and to make sure any changes are made transparently and fairly.
Thank you: EPA lunchtime action
A huge thank you to all EPA staff and supporters who took part in yesterday’s lunchtime protest against the proposed cuts to the EPA. We had close to 100 turnout in PSQ, and a small but mighty action in Queanbeyan. Taking action in uncertain times takes courage, and you showed that courage in spades. When we stand together, we are strong.
The rally attracted widespread media coverage, sending a clear message to the Government: these cuts are unacceptable, not only to the workers affected but to the public, who deeply value the vital role the EPA plays in protecting our community and environment.
What can you do next?
- Spread the word Tell your friends, family, and community that a $20 million shortfall in the EPA budget will result in over 370 roles being deleted, with 182 staff directly affected — including 50 temporary and 69 permanent jobs.
- Engage online Watch, like, and share the PSA’s Facebook and LinkedIn posts to help keep the issue in the public eye.
- Contact your local MP Let them know these cuts will harm both workers and the environment.
Reminders
Please remember to be respectful of your colleagues when making comments in person or online.
Please email or call 1800 772 679 and cite the case ID C10010423.
Contacts
Hugo Floyd Assistant Secretary
Georgia Meredith Women’s Contact Officer
Committee delegates
Scott King