We are calling a members’ meeting tomorrow, Tuesday 26 November 12:30pm-1:30pm to discuss the latest developments regarding the Environment Protection Authority’s (EPA’s) actions and the Industrial Relations Commission (IRC) proceedings. This is a critical opportunity for members to stay informed, share concerns, and discuss next steps.

On 20 November 2024, during the IRC Compulsory Conference, the Commissioner sharply criticised the EPA for failing to consult with the PSA before making decisions that affected staff. The PSA made it clear that had the EPA engaged with us earlier, we could have worked together to explore alternative savings measures before any roles were lost.

Key outcomes from the IRC

• The EPA to provide a list of deleted roles: The EPA must supply the PSA with a detailed list of the roles that have been deleted, including an explanation of why these particular positions were chosen.
• Organisational chart: The EPA is required to provide an up-to-date organisational chart, confirming whether the roles are vacant.
• Meeting to discuss alternatives: A meeting will be scheduled within a week between the EPA and PSA to discuss potential alternative solutions to avoid further job losses.
• Conciliation date set: The matter has been postponed until 2 December for further conciliation.
• Contract extension for affected staff: All affected staff members will receive new letters confirming an extension of their contracts until 7 January 2025.

As part of the proceedings, the PSA will continue to push the EPA for further clarification on the selection of the roles affected, as well as explore alternative savings options that avoid cutting essential positions.

Contract extension for affected staff

The PSA is aware that staff who received termination letters on 14 November were sent an email on 19 November, confirming the CEO’s commitment that no affected staff would be terminated before 7 January 2025. This extension was not due to the EPA’s goodwill but rather the result of the PSA’s intervention.

Consultation update

As highlighted in the IRC, consultation only began after the PSA stepped in, following numerous contacts from affected members. The PSA will continue to advocate for fair treatment and ensure that all affected employees have a voice in this process.

 

 

 

Meeting Details:

Date: Tuesday, 26 November 2024

Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM (UTC+10:00) Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney

Location: Room L11.42, 6PSQ OR join via Teams

We urge all affected members, or anyone interested in the outcome, to attend. If you are unable to attend in person, please join us virtually.

The PSA and your delegates are working hard to address these issues, and your ongoing support as a member is vital. Please encourage any non-member colleagues to join the PSA and strengthen our collective voice.