Privatisation of Jenolan Caves Reserve Trust
The PSA would like to update members at Jenolan Caves Reserve Trust (Jenolan Caves Trust) on the key discussion points at a consultative meeting concerning the privatisation of Jenolan Caves with the Department Premier & Cabinet (DPC) representatives on the 2 Sept 2013 following our members meeting on the 15 Aug 2013.
The PSA is genuinely aware of the pressures and difficulties members and staff face in light of the government’s decision to actively engage in the privatisation of their World heritage listed workplace – which has been management by the Jenolan Caves Trust and public servants.
In our discussions with DPC we have strongly advocated the protection and security of the membership to ensure as many employment opportunities and the conditions of employment apply in the transition from public to private.
From our recent meeting with DPC I provide the following summary points:
| 1. | The tender process is at an advanced stage with five applicants having made submissions. Short listing of applicants is expected to occur by early October 2013. | |
| 2. | The selected applicants will have until mid to late December 2013 to work on and provide a more detailed proposal. The announcement of the successful applicant will be made early 2014, with commencement privately controlled operation by 1 July 2014. | |
| 3. | The lease option will be for a period of up to 40 years. The licence to operate the caves will be for a period of 10 years, with the option to extend subject to review and the operator meeting the Governments performance criteria. | |
| 4. | The Government is in the process of developing a “Plan of Management” to ensure continued conservation and environmental management of this World Heritage listed site. | |
| 5. | The PSA raised the concern that members have been asked to agree to a confidentiality clause regarding the privatisation process. DPC were not aware of this matter and have agreed to investigate and report back to the PSA. | |
| 6. | Disappointingly the Government so far has failed to consult the traditional owners. |
DPC have acknowledged the PSAs concerns in regard to maintaining the employment and working conditions of the members and to this end the parties will continue to meet. The Australian Workers Union and Unions NSW are involved in these discussions and we are united in representing the interests of all members.
DPC have advised that they are looking at similar transfer packages recently provided to other government services which have been privatised, e.g. Sydney Ferries. DPC have indicated they are unable to guarantee the on-site accommodation of staff because this would be a matter for the new operator. The PSA understands that onsite accommodation is a significant issue and will require our ongoing involvement and advocacy.
Accordingly the PSA will be organising further workplace meetings with the members. In the meantime should you have any queries please contact your local delegate in the first instance or PSA Industrial staff.
| Adele Briddick | Organiser | 9248-3397 |
| Kylie McKelvie | Regional Organiser | 9248-3364 |
| Latu Sailosi | A/Industrial Officer | 9220-0989 |
