Merry Christmas

The PSA General Secretary, Delegates and Staff would like to congratulate you on the work you have done this year. Seasons greetings to each and every one of you!

The General Assistant Advisory Group (GAAG) held its end-of-year meeting on Tuesday, 5 December 2023, and we have some important updates to share with you.

Meeting Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar: We are pleased to announce that during the meeting, we were joined by Department of Education Secretary, Murat Dizdar. The meeting with Secretary Dizdar was very positive and we were able to raise several current issues. Secretary Dizdar has committed to attend our first meeting in March 2024 where further discussions will take place.

 Staffing Formula: The GAAG discussed the outdated staffing formula and the issues it is causing. We also raised this Secretary Dizdar. We will continue to work closely with the PSA to address these concerns and will provide further information following our first meeting in March.

Farm Assistant Representation: The GAAG is actively seeking a Farm Assistant representative to join our group and represent the interests of Farm Assistants. If you are interested or know someone who would be suitable, please get in touch with us.

RDOs for General Assistants: We are advocating for General Assistants working part-time across multiple schools to have access to the same entitlements as full-time General Assistants. This includes the entitlement to RDOs. We will keep you updated on our progress.

Temporary Workforce Transition: Please note that the transition process for temporary workforce positions is now closed to staff. If you believe you meet the criteria and still require assistance, please contact the member support centre for further guidance.

Hot Work Means Stop Work Bulletin: We would like to draw your attention to the recent bulletin sent by the PSA on 14 December 2024 and the importance of stopping work in such conditions. Please ensure you are aware of the guidelines to prioritise your safety.

Work Alone Risk Assessments: Please ensure that a work alone risk assessment is completed prior to the school holidays. YOUR safety is our priority.

Achievements: Working alongside your GAAG Delegates, your PSA representatives have achieved significant victories in 2023. These victories also include individual member issues where we have achieved a positive outcome for the member.

Laundry Allowance: A significant win that the PSA had this year was the “Laundry Allowance” for Gas and FAs including 6 years of backpay.

Election: The PSA recently held elections for the new GAAG. We had some changes within the committee, with new delegates joining and some previous delegates choosing to step down. We welcome our new delegates and appreciate the commitment of all Delegates involved.

Training: As part of our strategy to enhance the capacity of the GAAG, all delegates underwent union training at PSA House. This training will be an integral part of the delegates’ role moving forward, strengthening our ability to advocate for you in 2024.

 Working with Union Officers: We would like to extend our gratitude to Peta Noke (Organiser) and Sharny Chalmers (Industrial Officer) for their dedication and efforts this year. They faced the challenges of their new roles as GA and FA representatives and emerged with a valuable learning experience. If you encounter any problems, please don’t hesitate to contact the Member Support Centre for assistance.

We are grateful for the support we have received from the PSA, GAAG Delegates, and all General Assistants and Farm Assistants. Your contributions have been instrumental in making this year a success.

Your Delegates

Chairperson
Bill (William) Martin
Ponds School SSP

Vice Chairperson
Michael Burrell
Blacktown Boys High School

Secretary
Hayden Berry
Barramurra Public School

Women’s Officer
Fiona Doherty
Field of Mars Environmental Education Centre

Delegates
Glenn Hall
Thomas Acres Public School

Wade Appleby
Jamison High School

Stephen Smith
Cobar High School

Sam (Salvatore) Sale
Wadalba Community School

Jason Pickering
Toormina High School

Wayne Gaw
Armidale Secondary College; Duval Campus

Industrial Staff:

Sharny Chalmers – PSA Industrial Officer

Peta Noke – PSA Organiser