Members are advised that the Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission (GWIC) has recently announced a proposal to alter Steward staffing arrangements, specifically by reducing the number of Stewards attending race meetings outside of Wentworth Park and Goulburn.

The proposed changes also include expanding the responsibilities of Stewards. These adjustments may see Stewards take on additional duties, including:

• Increasing out-of-competition swabbing,
• Conducting off-site kennel inspections to strengthen compliance measures
• Supporting disciplinary inquiries.

Unfortunately, these changes were communicated to staff without prior consultation with the PSA.

Your GWIC delegates swiftly raised concerns with the union regarding the potential impacts of these changes. Issues highlighted include possible WHS risks, the absence of meaningful consultation, and the significant shift in responsibilities that appear more aligned with the duties of GWIC’s Inspectors rather than Stewards.

In response, the union has called on GWIC to guarantee that no reductions in Steward staffing or alterations to duties will take place until a thorough consultation process is completed.

Thanks to the quick work of your delegates and union, GWIC has now committed to the PSA that:

• No changes will be made to Stewards’ staffing levels, roles, or operational practices until the consultation process has been concluded, and
• The proposed trial will not proceed without further discussion and agreement with the PSA and all relevant stakeholders.

Your industrial representatives will meet with GWIC this week to continue discussions on these proposed changes and ensure that your concerns are heard and addressed.