With the ratification of the Interim Award, our focus now turns to the industrial process for achieving a Final Award.
The goal has always been clear: Psychologists deserve fair, competitive salaries and promotional structures that recognise the important work they do.
A successful outcome is about more than salary increases. It is also about ensuring the departments you work for are able to attract and retain skilled professionals, provide the best possible services to our communities, and support the positive reforms currently underway.
Interim Award – Payment Update
As a reminder, the Interim Award consists of two components:
- Component 1 – $9,000 salary component
- $9,000, operating for 12 months.
- To be paid fortnightly from 1 July 2026.
- This amount will count as salary for all purposes.
- Component 2 – 3 per cent salary increase
- A 3 per cent increase to salaries, effective from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2026.
We have been advised by DCJ Employee Relations that a request has been made to Payroll to process these payments. Members should start receiving their payments shortly, including any applicable backpay.
We would like to thank all our delegates and members who have given their time, energy and commitment to contributing to this outcome. This is a win for PSA members and a strong demonstration of what we can achieve when we stand together as a union.
Final Award – Next Steps
The PSA has attended a Directions Hearing at the Industrial Relations Commission (IRC), and the following timetable has been established:
- 25 September 2026 – PSA to file and serve evidence-in-chief and outline of submissions.
- 6 November 2026 – Industrial Relations Secretary (IRS) to file and serve evidence-in-chief and response to PSA evidence.
- 27 November 2026 – PSA to file and serve its response to IRS evidence.
- February 2027 – Hearing of evidence and submissions, with 29 and 30 April 2027 available if required.
Conciliation Continues
Importantly, conciliation will continue throughout this process as we work towards achieving a successful outcome.
Any offers made during this process will be put to members for consideration and endorsement.
The PSA and our legal teams are currently working closely with our witnesses to prepare the evidence required to be lodged by the September deadline.
A Stronger Future for Psychologists
There is still important work ahead, but the process is moving forward.
The Interim Award was an important step, and the PSA remains committed to achieving a fair and competitive Final Award that recognises the expertise, professionalism and value of Psychologists and supports the delivery of high-quality services to our communities.
We will continue to keep members informed as the process progresses.
We encourage members to reach out to their delegates with any feedback, ideas or information they would like to contribute. Your experiences and perspectives help strengthen our campaign and ensure members’ voices remain at the heart of the process.
Your Psychologist’s Award Advisory Group Members:
- Amy Sowerby (Corrective Services) [email protected]
- Mary Sanna (Corrective Services) [email protected]
- Samantha Sharp (Child Protection) [email protected]
- Gemma Clarke (Child Protection) [email protected]
- Ruth Marshall (Youth Justice) [email protected]
- Rebekah Green (Youth Justice) [email protected]
- Zoe Harrison (Police) [email protected]
Your PSA Industrial Staff:
- Chris Auld Senior Organiser [email protected]