Today, the University of Sydney blindsided the CPSU NSW bargaining team by presenting a management “package” without proper notice or genuine engagement.
Minutes after unions received the package, the University circulated the package to staff as though it reflected an agreed bargaining position. It does not.
This falls well short of good faith bargaining.
We note that bargaining has been underway for less than six months and not the nine months the University claims. Given significant progress has already been made until this point, the University’s decision to table a settlement misrepresented as an agreed position between all parties now appears designed to pressure unions and staff to accept their proposal rather than progress genuine negotiations.
This is in light of the CPSU NSW not agreeing to weaken consultation rights by allowing up to five positions in a work unit to be made redundant simultaneously without triggering formal consultation obligations.
We also rejected open-ended adoption of artificial intelligence without meaningful safeguards for job security, workload, transparency and staff rights.
CPSU NSW will not agree to provisions that make it easier for management to cut jobs, avoid consultation or undermine secure employment.
We would like to emphasise to members that retaining consultation rights are fundamental and a minimum protection for when management proposes workplace changes, restructures or job losses.
CPSU NSW calls on the University to return to the bargaining table, respect union representatives, and negotiate in good faith for an agreement that protects jobs, strengthens consultation rights and delivers fair outcomes for all staff.
Come to the members meeting to discuss this on Thursday 24 September 2026 at 1:00pm.
| Meeting Details | |
|---|---|
| Date: | Thursday 24 September 2026 |
| Time: | 1:00pm |
| Location: | Join Zoom meeting HERE
Meeting ID: 873 8189 2450 |
Bargaining Team
CPSU NSW Industrial Staff
Member Support Centre 1800 772 679
Lisa Nelson Senior Industrial Officer