On 20 November 2025, the Public Service Association (PSA) hosted a members’ meeting with staff from the Ageing and Disability Commission (ADC). Immediately following, the PSA met with ADC Commissioner Jeff Smith to discuss critical workplace issues and future collaboration.

Why this matters

These meetings provide a vital platform for members to raise concerns and influence decisions that shape their working environment.

Highlights from the meeting

Joint Consultative Committee established
The Commissioner has agreed to join a Joint Consultative Committee with PSA, ADC leadership, and delegates. The first meeting is scheduled for February 2026, creating a direct avenue for members to raise workplace issues.

Employee Wellbeing Action Plan
Following reviews of the People Matter Employee Survey and ADC’s internal Wellbeing Survey, a committee has drafted an Action Plan. One key initiative includes external coaching sessions for staff.

Staffing and recruitment challenges
ADC currently employs around 40 staff and five to six managers. Recruiting skilled staff for the Helpline remains a priority, as the role demands more than call-centre experience.

Training needs identified
Members highlighted the need for trauma response training and strategies for managing heightened client interactions, given the sensitive nature of ADC’s work.

Workload pressures
Call volumes are rising but staffing levels have not kept pace. Some members are forfeiting hours to meet growing demands.

Safety concerns for staff working alone in the office
The Commissioner has heard from members about working alone in the office and the feelings of vulnerability this can create. Your safety and wellbeing are his top priority. On 3 November 2025, the Commissioner sent out an all-staff email advising the options if you find yourself in this situation:

• If you are comfortable in being in the office by yourself, you can continue your day as normal, making sure your manager is aware.
• If you are not comfortable in the office by yourself, you should talk to your manager about next steps – for example, your manager can contact me to ask if someone can come into the office at short notice.
• If none of the above options are viable then you can go home to work, after informing your manager and/or the Acting Director, Operations

Operational c0ncerns raised

• Difficulty escalating concerns to higher levels
• DCJ policy requiring 50 per cent office presence, creating roster challenges
• Field work impacting WFH days

Delegates needed
As a delegate, you have the most important role in the union. Delegates are the day-to-day face of the union in the workplace. Every conversation you have, every issue you raise, and every member you support strengthens our collective power. Members look to delegates as workplace leaders on issues that matter to them. Delegates make a huge difference in resolving workplace and individual issues at the local level.

Next steps
PSA will continue to advocate for members and ensure these issues are addressed through the upcoming Joint Consultative Committee. Members are encouraged to share feedback and raise concerns ahead of the February meeting.

Next members meeting will be held on 21 January 2026

Contacts

Member Support Centre – 1800 772 679

Andrea Cartwright Organiser

Belinda Tsirekas Senior Organiser –

Graydon Welsh Industrial Officer