We are pleased to provide an update on several important matters relevant to members of the Public Service Association (PSA) and the New South Wales Rural Fire Service (RFS).

PSA v NSW (RFS) – Overtime Case

As previously reported, the PSA has commenced legal proceedings in the NSW Supreme Court against the State regarding the RFS’s failure to meet its award obligations. The case involves two main issues:

1. The failure to pay overtime for work performed before 7:30 am and after 6:00 pm on weekdays, as well as work on weekends or public holidays.
2. The failure to provide employees the option of choosing between paid overtime and leave in lieu, which should accrue at the same rate as overtime pay.

The PSA and the RFS continue to negotiate a settlement, aiming to achieve the best outcomes for members and resolve the issue of unpaid overtime for work outside of regular hours. Once these proceedings are resolved, the PSA will focus on the award variation two ensure our members receive fair and reasonable employment conditions.

The PSA will engage members in a statewide member meeting to provide updates on the case. A date will be announced soon.

Head Office Functions and Area Management Model Realignment

Prior to the recent Commissioner’s announcement regarding the Head Office Functions and Area Management Model, the PSA was contacted by the Commissioner.  The PSA is encouraged by the RFS’s engagement and looks forward to further dialogue with the RFS management before any future announcements are made.

RFS Departmental Committee – Nominations

In July, the PSA called for nominations to fill 14 positions within the RFS Departmental Committee (DC). Due to a surge in new memberships, bringing PSA membership within the RFS to historic highs, the DC was expanded to include additional delegates. The call for nominations saw a record number of nominations received, allowing all vacant positions to be filled, with most cohorts of the RFS represented.

The PSA Executive is currently reviewing a request to further expand the DC to accommodate the high number of nominations. The outcomes of the nominations and the election of the DC Executive group will be shared at the upcoming DC meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, 29th October 2024.

If you have any concerns regarding the information provided, you can contact your PSA delegate/s or the PSA . The PSA will raise your concerns with RFS management.

We encourage any non-members to join the union at https://www.psa.asn.au/join. Any engagement we have with management is on behalf of our members. Every new member makes the union stronger