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Review
Public Sector
Public Sector Review Magazine • May 2018
When we Dream Income Protection Know your rights New Zealand
6 Together
9 12 – Maternity Leave
22 Holiday Homes
www.cpsu.asn.au
CONTENTS
From the General Secretary: 3
A Public Sector for the Future
From the President: 4 WELCOME
Business as Usual
A message from the General Secretary
From the Assistant General 5
Secretary: A Proud History We all know that union membership
and union density is critical to our
We ask Worksite Representatives
to continue to engage with your A PUBLIC SECTOR
FOR THE FUTURE
success. members and proudly promote the
INDUSTRIAL NEWS
crucial role our Association plays, as
When We Dream Together 6 We see hundreds of positive you are our voice on the ground and
Dr John Falzon examples and outcomes of our are an integral part of our union.
negotiated and hard fought for by Nev Kitchin
Enterprise Agreement: RoundUp 8
working conditions every day.
Income Protection 9
For Injured Workers We encourage all members to help
PSA Special Election Forum 10 raise the profile of our union in your
A First for the PSA | Child Protection worksites so that these hard fought With a new government which was instead sold off for a once- Any potential cuts to the public sector
Know Your Rights: 12 for conditions remain. Have an open comes a new era, off cash injection through some form of would impact not only on public sector
Maternity, Adoption and discussion with your colleagues and privatisation. workers and their families but every part
Paid Partner Leave encourage non-members to join.
new challenges, and of the community they devote their lives
potentially new threats. As a prosperous and civilised community, to serving.
CFS 14
Annual Leave Accruals Also, undoubtedly as South Australian public services should
Clinical Coders 14
occurs with change, be world leading. Currently there are hundreds of
vacancies across government.
Know Your Super 15
comes new possibilities.
With the change in government, some of
Legal Personal Repersentative our members may have concerns about In some areas, we have members
We should therefore ask ourselves, what potential cuts to those services. working double shifts with no respite in
MEMBER NEWS FEDERAL WEBSITE
kind of public sector does our South sight. Child Protection, for example, is still
Building a Positive Future 16 The website has general interest articles, a links page and
specific sections for women, schools, higher education
Australian community expect or require?
“askWeourselves,
should therefore
what kind
hundreds of staff short.
Youth Survey Report Put simply, our community needs The levels of casual and short-term
and correctional services.
Member Profile: Tonia Bradstreet 17 www.cpsu-spsf.asn.au a public sector that delivers public of public sector does our contract employment across government is
Out and About 18
services equitably for the whole South Australian community also far too high, resulting in hard-working
”
community, and which has appropriate expect or require? and dedicated public servants not being
Review
With PSA Members
and adequate resourcing so that able to apply for home loans or have a
Womens Action Network 20 Public Sector
services are delivered to our community sense of security in their lives, as they are
Public Service 20 at the highest possible standard. Members are rightly concerned that the continually put on short-term contracts.
Recognition Award services you proudly provide to fellow
APHEDA 21 Our government is responsible for South Australians in health, education, Regardless of this recent change in
Unions in Phillippines The Public Sector Review is an official Designed and Printed on Recycled and ensuring public services are delivered emergency services, justice, primary government, you can be assured that
publication of the Public Service Sustainably sourced paper by in the interests of justice, fairness, and industries, and environment – just to the PSA - your union - will continue
Association of SA Inc and the Community Created 2 Print, 107 Sturt Street, equality. Governments must ensure name a few – could be reduced and to represent the interests of you, our
MEMBER BENEFITS and Public Sector Union (SPSF Group) Adelaide SA. www.created2print.com they act in the best interests of their diminished. members, and will proudly advocate for a
SA Branch. communities and be accountable in well-resourced public sector.
The Hidden Secrets 22
The Public Sector Review’s official providing, delivering and regulating There are some partisan elements in
of Holidaying in New Zealand
Comments, letters and editorial material publication number is PP565001/0010. public services. our community who are encouraging It is also important that you actively
PSA Plus 23 to: ‘The Editor’, Public Sector Review Volume 2, Number 2. take part and continue to talk to your
the government to reduce public
Save on a New Zealand Holiday Level 5, 122 Pirie Street, Responsibility for political content in this Our public services must be sustainable sector services and staff as a means of family and friends about the important
Health Partners 24 Adelaide SA 5000 publication is taken by Nev Kitchin. for the future so that our children and generating employment in the private role the public sector has in forming a
Taking Care of others sufferering grandchildren have access to quality sector. These calls are misplaced solid foundation of a strong and civilised
from Anxiety or Depression Selected articles are published
public services as a basic human right. and counter-productive. Cuts to community.
electronically on the PSA website at
Theatre Offering 25 public sector services directly affect
www.cpsu.asn.au
Journey Accident Cover 26 Public services should be accessible the community including the small Ask yourselves, your colleagues, family
Tel: 08 8205 3200 Fax: 08 8223 6509 Cover Image: PSA members at a
by all community members without the businesses which rely on the public and friends, what kind of public sector do
PSA Holiday Home 27 Toll-Free: 1800 811 457 PSA Young Members Lunch.
fear of having to pay an exorbitant price services they need and the customers you want for our community, now and for
Email: enquiries@cpsu.asn.au
Training Calendar 28 for something that we used to own, but they serve. the future.
2 3
Public Sector Review Magazine | May 2018 www.cpsu.asn.au
A message from the President
A message from the
BUSINESS AS USUAL Assistant General Secretary
by Michael Griffiths A PROUD
Since the election, the PSA has been actively working towards
building constructive working relationships with the new Government.
HISTORY
by Natasha Brown
Our leadership has requested meetings with all Ministers.
So far our General Secretary, Assistant The PSA leadership will continue about the importance of being actively May Day is an opportunity for us to pause and
General Secretary and myself have met to meet with the new Government engaged in our union. reflect on our shared union achievements, and
with the Premier the Hon. Steven Marshall Ministers and representatives and will
MP, the Treasurer The Hon. Rob Lucas keep members up to date as meetings For those who missed the Forum, contact
on how we will add our own legacy to this
MLC and the Minister for Correctional occur. your PSA Organiser to catch up on what proud history.
Services and Emergency Services The you missed, and to talk about how you
Hon. Corey Wingard MP. A quick congratulations to all PSA can make our union even stronger! Looking back only a few generations, it was The second benefit is the establishment become the foundation from which we
Worksite Representatives who “normal” to work much longer hours often of the new “normal”. negotiate even greater improvements
These meetings have been initial general attended the second PSA Worksite in unsafe conditions. Many Australians in the future.
discussions, with further regular meetings Representatives
“
suffered serious workplace injuries and
being established. Forum on 4 We must remain united,
even death in their struggle to earn a living As we acknowledge what our
May 2018 and
wage and provide for their families.
keep campaigning predecessors have fought and won
It is important that, as the principal public for making it a and leave a legacy for for us, we must also acknowledge the
sector union advocating for and supporting memorable event. future generations of
We have come a long way since then, but duty that we all owe to those who will
the public sector, the PSA works towards It is important
only through the dedication and sacrifice union members to keep come after us.
building positive and constructive working for our Worksite
relationships, and ensures awareness Representatives of union members before us who believed building on what we have
of the relevance of the PSA, in order to to continue to be working people deserved better, and were maintained, protected and We must remain united, keep
maximise our opportunity to protect the
integrity of our public sector and to protect
actively involved,
and to keep talking
willing to campaign together to achieve it. achieved together.
” campaigning and leave a legacy for
future generations of union members
the interests of PSA members. to your colleagues As union members, we know every Each win we achieve paves the way for to keep building on what we have
collective win has two important the next win, and lays a new building maintained, protected and achieved
outcomes. block we will stand on for each future together.
campaign.
The immediate benefit is the win
itself – securing a safer workplace, The enterprise agreements we
OUR OUR better resources, fairer entitlements or
improvements to working conditions.
negotiate, the resources we secure and
the improvements we achieve today,
VISION MISSION
A South Australian Public To grow, engage and
Sector in which PSA empower our membership
members are highly valued by working collectively to
and well-resourced, with effectively represent, protect
fair and secure working and actively advance PSA
conditions and entitlements. members’ interests.
4 5
Public Sector Review Magazine | May 2018 www.cpsu.asn.au
WHEN WE
DREAM TOGETHER “ When we dream
DR JOHN FALZON alone, it is only a
dream, but when we
Nobody says or does anything in an historical vacuum. What has happened and dream together it is the
what is happening encompasses and shapes how we think, how we feel, how
we treat each other. Everything is connected to everything else. And everyone
beginning of reality. ”
is connected to everyone else!
When nations feel insecure about only help them you boost spending. are denied education and training? protect and quarantine from its forces, education is attacked, when TAFE is
themselves they build walls. When Unlike when you give tax cuts to the Is it actually in our interests to to be put on sale, to be a source of undermined, when universities are
people feel insecure they also tend to rich.” The same, of course, goes for restrict access to higher education or profit for the few and loss for the deregulated.
DR JOHN
build walls. people in low-paid work. Which is healthcare to those who can afford it many.
why it makes no sense to business to instead of making sure it is accessible We are injured when the public sector
FALZON
This wall-building is also exemplified slash wages and penalty rates. Does to all who need it? But it is life that teaches us that an is dismembered and the common
in both the policy of governments and anyone honestly think that by reducing injury to one is an injury to all. And the good is wrecked; when people are
the public attitudes towards people the incomes of their employees As the German poet, Bertolt Brecht Feminist Movement that teaches us forced into poverty, compelled to rely
who are deemed by the neoliberal everyone else’s business except their wrote, “In the contradiction lies the that the personal is political. on charity when all they long for is
consensus to have somehow failed own will experience the effects of a hope.” And make no mistake, there justice.
to stand on their own two feet; is enormous, irrepressible hope in When as a people, we are injured,
we become more intensely, more Dr John Falzon, Chief Executive
people blamed and pilloried for the the midst of the hatred, division and
crime of being poor, unemployed,
“interests
Is it actually in our demonisation we are witnessing. passionately, more personally, more of the St Vincent de Paul Society
underemployed, in low-paid precarious
employment, living with a disability,
to restrict
access to higher
There is hope because history
doesn’t just happen; it is made by
collectively, political.
“government,
We are injured when
on
National Council of Australia, is
a social analyst, activist and poet.
escaping domestic violence, people people. In attentively listening to the We are injured when government, on He has worked in academia,
with caring responsibilities, students, education or healthcare music of what happens we can hear behalf of the rich, steals from the poor.
behalf of the rich, steals community development, research
older people living alone, especially
those without assets, such as the
to those who can afford
it instead of making
a beautiful sound that is greater
than the sound of suffering. It is For this is what it means to rip funding
from the poor. ” and advocacy.
growing cohort of single women over the collective song of solidarity, the from schools, hospitals and social
sure it is accessible to Dr Falzon has written and spoken
services whilst refusing to make We are injured when the maximisation
”
the age of 55 who are experiencing tenderness of the people in the face widely on the structural causes
homelessness.
all who need it? of oppression, the hunger for, and large corporations and high wealth of profits takes priority over the rights
of inequality in Australia and
collective commitment to, creating individuals pay their share. of workers, including the residualised
the collective struggle for social
There is a growing meanness towards decline in spending? And does anyone a society which builds housing and and discarded, the shattered and the
justice and is a regular media
people who don’t have two bob to rub think that by increasing the wealth of hope for all instead of walls that lock We are injured when unemployment shunned.
and underemployment are blamed on commentator. He is the author
together. As a café owner put it to me the already wealthy more coffees are out many. This movement for social
at the time last year’s Federal Budget: going to be consumed? justice is real. It is deeply practical, the individual instead of fixed by the It is time we turned our personal of The language of the unheard
“What I don’t understand”, he said, “is deeply human, deeply historical. It government. stories of injustice and pain into a (2012) and Communists Like Us,
why the government begrudges even Similarly, there is an actively promoted is expressed in simple gestures of beautiful collective struggle for a new a collection of poems released in
the lousy amount that people have to grudging attitude towards using public love as well as mass movements for We are injured when instead of a Jobs society. 2017.
live on if they’re unemployed. Don’t spending to make sure every child liberation. Plan, we’re served up a putting-the-
they realise that people who are trying gets the highest quality education boot-into-the-unemployed-plan and a As the Brazilian Indigenous proverb
to live on a pension or allowance rather than ensuring that more goes We are told to bow down before ripping-up-the-minimum-wage-and- reminds us: When we dream alone, it
spend every cent they have? They to the schools that need the least and the market and sacrifice everything penalty-rates-plan. In other words a is only a dream, but when we dream
don’t hide it under a mattress. Every already have the most. How do we – education, health, housing, social Family Pain Plan. together it is the beginning of reality.
dollar they get they send straight back benefit as an economy or a society services– on its altar. In other words,
into the economy. They keep nothing! if we increase education inequality? to allow everything, including that We are injured when universal
Increase what they get and you don’t Is it good for all of us if any of us which we have historically fought to healthcare is hammered, when public
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Public Sector Review Magazine | May 2018 www.cpsu.asn.au
INCOME
PROTECTION
ReturnToWorkSA negotiations are
ENTERPRISE
nearing conclusion. Pay rises generally
reflect the Salaried agreement outcome.
AGREEMENT ROUNDUP
FOR INJURED
Negotiations are currently in progress
for PSA members working in Parliament
House. Members are actively involved in
The PSA has been identifying and progressing matters that
WORKERS
limited exemptions). Members’ rights to
involved in a range of be represented have been improved, and are important to them.
injury and income protection has been
enterprise agreement achieved for injured workers (see page 9). The universities’ enterprise agreement
negotiations with a number round is also well under way. The
of new agreements being Members recently voted in support of University of Adelaide agreement
concluded. SA Water’s proposed new enterprise concluded with pay rises of a flat rate of The PSA has achieved and medical expenses protection eligible only if they are caused as a
agreement. Pay rises in the new $2,000 in March 2018; 1.5% in March Award changes to provide beyond two years to eligible workers consequence of a specific incident or
The Weekly Paid public sector enterprise agreement reflect those achieved in the 2019; 1.5% plus $400 in March 2020; income protection with eligible injuries to which would incidents.
agreement saw a number of improvements new public sector salaried agreement. and 1.5% in March 2021. Negotiations have applied under the predecessor
for workers seriously
and protections, including the removal All existing conditions have been are continuing with Flinders University legislation to the ReturnToWork Act. The matter of income protection for
injured at work in certain workers seriously injured in the service
of a long standing clause that the maintained, with improvements achieved and University of SA.
government had begun to use to raise including improvements to the calculation circumstances. The variations to the Awards are of their community has been under
uncertainty about the enforceability of of overtime, income protection for Negotiations for the Education Staff consistent with those achieved in other consideration for some time. Following
the agreement. Now enshrined in the seriously injured workers (see page 9), enterprise agreement are just starting. The Award variations were approved public sector areas, including SA Police. representations from unions including
new agreement is the entitlement to 15 days Family and Domestic Violence The PSA will continue to engage in the South Australian Employment the PSA the former government
a breakfast allowance for Ministerial Leave and improvements to job security with our members, especially our Tribunal (SAET) on 20 April 2018 “Eligible worker” means current and wrote to the PSA in September 2016
Chauffeurs – a long standing condition through the Retraining, Redeployment SSO members, in relation to these and will apply retrospectively to cover former workers (irrespective of when confirming that benefits additional to the
not previously in the agreement which was and Redundancy provisions. negotiations. any eligible injury sustained from 30 the former worker’s employment current work injury legislation would be
unilaterally removed by the employer last September 1987. A copy of the latest ceased) who have had a claim accepted applied in certain circumstances. Since
year. The agreement saw members receive Other agreements recently concluded As with all enterprise bargaining Awards can be found at https:// under a compensation Act (but does then negotiations have been focussed
reasonable pay rises, with a minimum of include the Novita agreement which processes – the more members involve publicsector.sa.gov.au/policies- not include workers who have had on giving effect to that commitment,
$1,500. The agreement provides for no included a number of improvements for themselves in the process the better the standards/industrial-relations/award- their employment lawfully terminated starting with basic principles being
further outsourcing or privatisation (with PSA members. outcomes. advices/. on the grounds of serious and wilful included in the new SAMPSEAS and
misconduct and/or criminal conduct). Weekly Paid agreements. The Award
Under the current ReturnToWork variations provide a higher level of
scheme (previously called Workcover “Eligible injury” means an injury arising detail on the implementation and the
SOUTH SSOs, ECWs and AEWs - as many of you
are aware, your enterprise agreement is up
The PSA will also set up a working
group for the Enterprise Bargaining
– i.e. Workers Compensation) most out of the course of the worker operations of those principles.
AUSTRALIAN for renegotiation this year. process so keep an eye on your emails
workers who are unable to return
to work following a work injury are
attending work in accordance with
their employment, or performing the Terms negotiated in the new
SCHOOL AND The PSA will be sending a survey to all
for further updates and future meeting
dates.
excluded from receiving income support work for which they are employed. The SAMPSEAS 2017 provide that an
PRESCHOOL PSA SSO, ECW and AEW members to
from the scheme after two years, and
from receiving medical expenses after
injury must have resulted from conduct
directed at the worker that is or appears
Award variation in relation to income
and injury protection takes precedence
EDUCATION find out what is important to you and what
conditions you would like to build upon in
When PSA members work together,
we can achieve better outcomes, so
that. to be a criminal offence, or which over the enterprise agreement.
STAFF your new Agreement. encourage your colleagues to join
All the Awards underpinning the new
occurred as a direct and immediate
result of conduct that is or appears If you have any questions about income
ENTERPRISE This is a great opportunity for you to
the PSA to work together to improve
rights and working conditions.
SA Modern Public Sector Enterprise to be a criminal offence, or which has protection for injured workers please
AGREEMENT
Agreement (SAMPSEAS) and the occurred in other circumstances where contact the PSA Members’ Rights
have your say to improve your working
Weekly Paid enterprise agreement have the worker is placed in a dangerous Hotline on (08) 8205 3227, or by email
conditions.
now been varied to provide income situation. Psychiatric injuries are to enquiries@cpsu.asn.au.
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Public Sector Review Magazine | May 2018 www.cpsu.asn.au
See some of the questions members had answered:
• Does your party have any plans to • With the growing insecure nature
reduce the number of public servants of work, increased term contracts,
and if so, how? staff working on higher duties above
their classification, what actions do
• Are there any plans for cuts to the
the parties intend to take to provide
public service? Are there any services
public servants with more security in
or functions that have been privatised
employment enabling them to better
that you would consider bringing back
access or opportunities to get a car or a
into public ownership?
home loan? This is particularly an issue
• Why doesn’t the Government come out for younger people in the public service
and support the public service, not just who might spend up to 10 years on
nurses, police and fire-fighters and openly contracts with no permanency.
acknowledge and promote the majority
A FIRST
of hard-working public servants?
sanotforsale.com.au
FOR THE PSA
It is always important during election time for voters
to know who or what they are voting for and likewise
who or what they are voting against.
In order to provide PSA members greater Party; the Hon. Steven Marshall MP,
access to information regarding party
positions on the public sector, the PSA
then Leader of the Opposition, Liberal
Party SA and current Premier of South
If you missed the Forum you
can watch the Forum footage in CHILD PROTECTION
SPECIAL ELECTION FORUM
held the first PSA Special Election Australia; the Hon. Tammy Franks MLC, full at the PSA SA Not for Sale
Forum in February. Spokesperson for the Public Sector, The campaign website:
Greens SA; and Nick Xenophon, Leader, sanotforsale.com.au .
Members, along with their families and SA-Best.
friends, had the opportunity to hear You can also still get involved with The PSA hosted a Child Protection Special Election Forum in
directly from key political leaders about The successful event attended by close the SA Not for Sale campaign by March for invited PSA Worksite Representatives and members
how they saw the role of the public to 300 guests gave leaders from each signing the petition, downloading a to lobby for a better child protection system for children and our
sector and their positions on privatisation, party the opportunity to outline their poster to hang in your workplace,
members who work within it.
including providing members a chance party position before forum facilitator, and by sharing the website with
to have their own questions answered former ABC journalist Victoria Purman colleagues, family and friends.
Those invited had a connection or coalface in Child Protection to have All invited MPs committed to meet again
about these important issues. opened questioning. The website will be updated
interest in Child Protection. an open and frank discussion with key post election, particularly in relation to
throughout the year so stay tuned.
political decision makers about what our “2 Up on Shift” campaign for at least
The Forum was attended by the Hon. Jay Thank you to all members who attended
Nat Cooke MP – Member for Fisher we need to make our Child Protection two people on shift.
Weatherill MP, the now former Premier of this first PSA Special Election Forum
(representing Child Protection Minister system better for both the children and
South Australia, South Australian Labor and for making it such a great event.
Susan Close), the Hon. Rachel workers within it.
Sanderson MP – now Minister for Child
Protection and shadow minister at the
time, the Hon. Tammy Franks MLC –
Upper House member and Greens
spokesperson for Child Protection, and
the Hon. Kelly Vincent MLC – Upper
House member for the Dignity Party at
the time attended.
The forum was a valuable opportunity
for PSA members working at the
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Public Sector Review Magazine | May 2018 www.cpsu.asn.au
PSA MEMBERS’
RIGHTS HOTLINE
For information and advice on your
working and employment conditions,
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
contact the PSA Members’ Rights Hotline
between 8:45am – 5:00pm Monday to
Friday.
MATERNITY, ADOPTION AND
Phone: (08) 8205 3227
Email: enquiries@cpsu.asn.au
PAID PARTNER LEAVE
www.cpsu.asn.au
The following information applies to members in the Public Sector employed under the
When do I have to make a decision their circumstances change. The Chief are able to access up to two calendar
South Australian Modern Public Sector Enterprise Agreement: Salaried 2017. Members to return to my pre-maternity or pre- Executive may only refuse the request on weeks (10 working days and pro-rata
employed under different enterprise agreements should contact the PSA Members’ Rights adoption leave employment basis? reasonable operational grounds (clauses for part-time employees) of their sick
Hotline on 8205 3227 for information about maternity leave specific to their employment. At least six (6) weeks prior to the 13.5.1.3 and 13.5.1.4). leave on the birth or adoption of a child
relevant child’s second birthday, an or children for whom they have direct
PSA members achieved some significant you will be paid at the full-time ASO2 to the average number of contracted employee who has returned to work on What rate will I be paid for maternity parental care responsibility. Partner’s
improvements to maternity leave provisions rate. This includes allowances that are hours during the immediately preceding a part-time basis must advise their Chief or adoption leave for subsequent can also access carer’s leave.
in the latest Public Sector Salaried expressed as payable for all purposes. 12 months (disregarding any periods of Executive of their intention to either: children?
Enterprise Agreement. The information Other allowances, penalties or additional leave) (clause 13.3.5). • revert back to their pre-maternity As described earlier, employees’ A chief executive, agency head or
that follows covers some of the more payments are excluded from paid or pre-adoption leave basis; or entitlements will be based on their delegate must grant an employee up
common questions the PSA receives about maternity and adoption leave (clause Can I return to work from maternity • continue to be employed on the ordinary rate of pay immediately prior to to a maximum of the equivalent of 52
maternity leave in the Public Sector. 13.3.3.2). and adoption leave on a part-time same part-time basis as agreed; their leave commencing (clause 13.3.3.2). weeks leave without pay if the employee
basis? or applies for such leave on the ground
Who is eligible for Paid Maternity and What about the Federal Government’s Employees are entitled to return to work • continue to be employed on The entitlements for employees who that he/she requires the leave to
Adoption Leave? paid maternity leave? from maternity and adoption leave on another agreed part-time basis have returned to work from maternity and undertake the care of a young child not
Any employee, other than a casual The paid leave available from the a part-time basis while maintaining the (clause 13.5.1.2). adoption leave on a part-time basis and of school age of whom the employee is
employee, who has completed 12 months enterprise agreement described above right of return to their pre-maternity seek a further period of paid maternity a parent (including an adopted child) or
continuous service prior to the birth of the operates in addition to the federal or pre-adoption leave employment Can I continue to work part-time after leave prior for a subsequent child prior is exercising parental responsibilities.
child. parental leave scheme currently in basis until the child’s second birthday. my child’s second birthday? to the relevant child’s second birthday The employee is entitled to such leave
operation (clause 13.3.8). The days and hours of the part-time An employee who has returned to work will be based on the employee’s original for each child not of school age.
How much paid leave is available? arrangement will be as agreed by the from maternity or adoption leave can pre-maternity or pre-adoption leave basis
Eligible employees who have up to What is the maximum amount of employee and the Chief Executive request to continue to work part-time (whether that was full-time or otherwise) All employees are entitled to unpaid
five (5) years service are entitled to 16 leave available? (cause 13.5). until the child is of school age (clause (clause 13.5.1.5). parental leave regardless of how
weeks paid leave (clause 13.3.1). Eligible The total paid and unpaid leave must not 13.5.2). The request can only be refused long they have been employed and
employees with five (5) or more years exceed 104 calendar weeks (two years) What do I need to do to return to on reasonable grounds (clause 13.5.3). What leave is available for partners? regardless of how they are employed
service are entitled to 20 weeks paid in relation to the employee’s child (clause work from maternity and adoption Many departments have ‘existing (i.e. whether ongoing, term or casual).
leave (clause 13.3.2). 13.3.3.1). leave on a part-time basis? Can I return to my pre-maternity or arrangements’ available for partners, However, employees employed on a
Employees need to make a request pre-adoption leave employment basis including access to Special Leave With term basis are not entitled to leave
What rate will I be paid while on leave? How much leave is available to part- to return to work on a part-time basis prior to what I originally agreed to? Pay for periods between one and three without pay past the end of the term
Employees will be paid their ordinary rate time employees? to their Chief Executive at least six Employees have the right to request weeks. of their contract except if they hold the
of pay from the day the leave commences Part-time employees have the same (6) weeks prior to the date that their to return to their pre-maternity or right to further ongoing appointment at
That is, if you are ordinarily a full-time entitlements as full-time employees, but maternity or adoption leave is due to pre-adoption leave basis prior to Where a department does not have the end of the contract.
ASO2 the week before your leave begins, are paid on a pro-rata basis according expire (clause 13.5.1.1). what was originally agreed when such an arrangement in place, partners
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Public Sector Review Magazine | May 2018 www.cpsu.asn.au
KNOW YOUR
CFS WIN ANNUAL SUPER:
LEAVE ACCRUALS
PSA members working in PSA members were not provided corrected The unity of all PSA members working in LEGAL PERSONAL
REPRESENTATIVE
the Country Fire Service contracts when changing positions within all regions across the state showed what
have had a massive win the organisation. can be achieved when we work together to
after a 12 month battle. overcome injustice in the workplace.
This meant that a person who worked in
an operational capacity could apply for Members can be proud of achieving this
Members were formally advised that an administrative position and still accrue Making a binding death nomination You can extend or confirm your To download the Nomination of Legal
outcome together.
the CFS will no longer pursue to recoup five weeks leave instead of reverting to If you’re a member of Triple S or have nomination before the expiry date Personal Representative form and fact
accrued excess annual leave. accruing four weeks. a Flexible Rollover Product or Income by completing a new Binding Death sheet, visit the Super SA website at
Stream account, you can elect for your Benefit Nomination Legal Personal www.supersa.sa.gov.au
death benefit to be paid to a nominated Representative form.
Legal Personal Representative (LPR)
However, not all local health networks rather than defaulting to your spouse, If you decide you want to cancel/revoke
have reclassified clinical coders allowing you more control around how your nomination before the three year Disclaimer
to ASO4. There is a management your death benefit will be distributed. expiry date, you can do so by completing The information in this article is
proposal that clinical coders will the same form. of a general nature only and has
have to work for five years, or gain Your LPR is the person nominated by been prepared without taking
an expensive qualification, to be you to be the executor of your Will or Income Stream investors into account your objectives,
able to be classified at the ASO4 administrator of your Estate. An LPR If you’re an Income Stream investor, financial situation or needs. Super
CLINICAL CODERS
level in some locations. Bizarrely, nomination is a binding death nomination, you may have nominated a reversionary SA recommends that before
it appears that the rules governing valid for three years from the date it is beneficiary (when you opened your making any decisions about your
which classification clinical coders signed. Income Stream) to receive your scheme/product, you consider
will be employed at will be different income, in the event of your death. You the appropriateness of this
Hidden away in hospitals In October 2016, PSA members depending on which local health Where no binding death nomination is can also choose to nominate a legal information in the context of your
made, your death benefit will be paid to personal representative however this
across the state are groups at the Lyell McEwin and Modbury network you are employed. own objectives, financial situation
Hospitals took the lead and began to your spouse (and/or your putative spouse) will only come into effect if there is no and needs and seek financial
of PSA members – clinical and if there is no spouse, to your Estate. reversionary beneficiary at the time of
push for proper recognition of their As one member said during this advice from a licensed financial
coders – who do the your death.
work by lodging a joint application for process, “you could almost be a adviser in relation to your financial
important job of working reclassification from ASO3 to ASO4. doctor in this time”. What happens if my circumstances position and requirements.
out the Medicare codes change? Have you got more than one Super
for patients’ care so public PSA clinical coder members from The PSA will be challenging this Keeping your nomination with Super SA account?
SA and Will up to date at all times is It is important that you tell us each
hospitals can claim back the Royal Adelaide Hospital, Queen approach as it unfairly denies some
Elizabeth Hospital and Flinders Medical staff from being reclassified for five important. If your circumstances change, account that you would like to apply to
those costs. your nomination. When completing the
Centre soon followed, also seeking the years. The PSA believes that all you need to ensure that your Will and
This work brings in a massive amount same reclassification. clinical coders should be able to be your nominated LPR with Super SA are nomination form, you will be asked to list
of funding, without which, the public reclassified without some arbitrary updated and continue to reflect your each account number separately.
hospital system could not survive. Members have been incredibly patient, time barrier being imposed. wishes.
waiting a disrespectfully long time for Do you need financial advice?
This work is complex and technical. a response their local health networks. While recognising the last piece Valid nominations Making a binding death benefit
Our members work at a rapid pace Finally, after much pressure from the of the puzzle still needs to be In order for your nomination to be valid, nomination is an important decision. You
with a high level of accuracy every day. PSA, a response has now been received. resolved, the PSA sends a heartfelt it must be signed and witnessed by two may wish to speak to one of the financial
They love the work they do and even congratulations to our PSA clinical people over the age of 18. Your Legal planners from Industry Fund Services
though they have a lot of autonomy, The outcome is that the vast number of coder members who have stuck Personal Representative(s) cannot be the (IFS) or to your own financial planner. If
they also work together in effective current clinical coders will move from together and demanded that their skill witness. The appropriate proof of identity you would like to talk to Industry Fund
and efficient teams. the ASO3 to ASO4 level. and value is better recognised. documentation will need to accompany Services, call them on 1300 138 848 to
your nomination. make an appointment.
14 15
Public Sector Review Magazine | May 2018 www.cpsu.asn.au
BUILDING A
POSITIVE FUTURE
YOUTH SURVEY REPORT
The challenge is not only to educate
young people around unionism but also
Our young members also have strong
social justice values and care deeply
“We need members to keep unions
strong. If numbers diminish then so too
MEMBER PROFILE:
to educate the union movement on what
can be achieved when young members are
about addressing issues of inequality in
society.
does the power unions can have and use.
Being a union member helps workers TONIA BRADSTREET
meaningfully engaged and empowered.
Young members working together
understand their rights and helps them
feel supported.”
ORAL HISTORY CURATOR
The PSA recently sent out a youth survey
to all members under the age of 35 to
intergenerationally have a great
opportunity to shape the future of the “I didn’t know much about unions before
STATE LIBRARY OF
find out what is important to members, to union movement and tackle injustice as is but since I have joined I’ve realised how SOUTH AUSTRALIA
ascertain how members are involved, and to relevant to today’s world. important it is to be in the union.”
ask what members want from their union.
Let us all be involved in building a “I didn’t believe in unions at first, but after Can you tell us a bit about what your staff are reduced, ‘back room’ activities Worksite Representative is to tap into
Job security, financial insecurity, poor positive future as union members for going to the rally and other meetings I work involves at the State Library of SA? such as describing, processing and support beyond those directly impacted
pay, career progression and professional the improvement of our employment came to realise what unions can do for While the State Library of South Australia preserving South Australian heritage, (ie staff), keep your members and your
development were major reoccurring conditions and broader society. me.” became the central repository for managing electronic databases, supporters singing off the same hymn
themes of concern for our young members. unpublished audio interviews in 1987, my reshelving, retrieving books and sheet, make your campaign as public
Why young members feel unions are “Didn’t have a positive view of unions until tenure as Curator of the J.D. Somerville archival material, managing storage as you can, and don’t get too fatigued.
The issue of job insecurity and contract important: began working in the public sector.” Oral History Collection started 10 years areas, purchasing reference books Being a Worksite Representative is a
work is deeply and widely felt as they have “I feel unions are important in ensuring ago. My role is to grow the collection, and answering research queries challenging and frequently frustrating
implications for future careers and lives our rights are protected while improving “Positive - the union movement has with a particular emphasis on capturing also become much more difficult to business, but my experience is that
including home ownership and raising on the rights and the conditions we have. an important part to play in Australian the voices of South Australians who have adequately perform. advocating for your colleagues can also
families. The current environment for unions is workplaces and society in general.” not been traditionally well-represented in be really rewarding.
challenging. The Federal Government are written records. This includes low-income With your experience in this
Our members identified that they joined adding layers upon layers of bureaucracy Member feedback will guide PSA earners, Aboriginal South Australians, campaign, can you provide some
primarily because they believed in unionism for unions to stymie them. This is future planning around young women, people from non-English- insight for our members in other
and collective action which breaks free something that should be resisted.” member engagement. If you did not speaking backgrounds, LGBTQI South agencies what effective strategies
of the misconception that young workers get a chance to fill out the youth your member group used or words
MEMBER
Australians, regional folk, and refugees.
may not care or understand about being “Positive... and I think the harder times survey, let us know if you would like The Curator supports new and existing of wisdom you would like to share?
part of a union movement. to be involved in any future events or
CLASSIFIEDS
unions have fallen on in the last two oral historians with their projects by As one of the most highly-unionised
decades is starting to be reversed as a projects at enquiries@cpsu.asn.au. providing training, advice, guidelines for and industrially-aware organisations in
The majority of our young members also new generation of workers understand documentation, and use of preservation- the SA public sector, the State Library
identified that they have talked to their that they must fight for their own has a strong, positive relationship with If you are a financial member of the
standard digital recording equipment.
colleagues about the union and that the interests, and not expect their employer the PSA. But the campaign against PSA and would like to advertise
My focus is not only on adding to the
primary reason they got involved was from will be benevolent.” the 2016 staff cuts was a highlight with us, you can place a classified
collection, but also ensuring the broadest
colleagues asking them to join. for members, since it resulted in a halt in the Public Sector Review free of
possible access to recordings for current
to the restructure. Library patrons, the charge. Classifieds are printed at
and future researchers, and facilitating
general public, politicians and the media the discretion of the Public Sector
long-term preservation of this important
were vocal in their support of what the Review Editor and will only be
part of SA’s heritage.
Library does and the adverse impact printed for two editions unless the
item is sold earlier. Classifieds must
In 2016, the SLSA faced dramatic job the proposed cuts would have. Petitions
be supplied in text format with a
cuts - what sort of impact would these (physical and online) were signed,
maximum of 70 words. Classifieds
staff reductions have had on library industrial action was solidly supported,
can be emailed to the PSA at
services? questions were tabled in Parliament,
and protests were mounted in front enquiries@cpsu.asn.au. Please note
Any reduction in staff decreases the that classifieds are only available to
Library’s ability to deliver the services that of the Library. My best advice to any
financial PSA members.
are mandated under the Libraries Act,
1982. While the impact is immediately
obvious when frontline customer service
16 17
Public Sector Review Magazine | May 2018 www.cpsu.asn.au
OUT AND
ABOUT
WITH PSA
MEMBERS
18 19
Public Sector Review Magazine | May 2018 www.cpsu.asn.auJOIN THE
WOMEN’S ACTION NETWORK
The PSA launched the Women’s Do I have to use the whole toolkit at
Action Network in September once? The next PSA WAN meeting
last year for like-minded, No. You can break each activity up into will be held at the PSA on 30
strong PSA women to help you segments – some people have asked if May 2018. If you are not able
have a conversation with your they can do one of the worksheets at their to attend the meeting - you
team meetings over a period of time. can still stay involved via
colleagues about gender equity
videoconference. Contact the
in the public service. Is this considered a part of work PSA at psawan@cpsu.asn.au
duties?
for more information.
As a part of the new network, the PSA You can ask management if you can have
designed a Women’s Action Network these meetings in paid time, but approval
conversation toolkit – the WAN Toolkit for this is open to negotiation. There is no
- to help guide you in an effective industrial entitlement to being able run
workplace discussion. these in work time.
Want to know more about the toolkit If you are a woman
UNIONS IN THE PHILIPPINES JOIN
before getting involved? Below are some member and would
frequently asked questions: like to know more
FORCES TO FIGHT WAR ON WORKERS
Who do I use the toolkit with? It is just information about how
for PSA members? to get a copy of the
toolkit to start your own
Members and non-members are welcome
conversation or to hear
to be a part of this conversation. Some
more on how to get Union centres have joined forces in the Philippines to fight the Duterte administration’s war on workers. A
people who have used the toolkit have
involved, contact the
said they have found it a great way to rally on 15 March 2018 in Manila saw key union centres; including Union Aid Abroad - APHEDA’s partners
PSA at
break the ice and talk to non-members
psawan@cpsu.asn.au.
Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) and Sentro ng mga Nagkakaisa at Progresibong Manggagawa (SENTRO) join
about union issues. forces. They were demanding the Duterte government stop stalling on its election commitment and take
definitive action to end out of control short-term contracts (known as “contractualisation”).
They released a joint statement (signed Contractualisation in the Philippines delegates in strategies to organise for
by Nagkaisa and KMU) stating: Despite the electoral promise to genuine, anti-imperialist trade unionism.
end contractualisation, the practice
“It’s about time the President has increased under the Duterte More recently we have partnered with
makes good on his vow to end administration. Increasingly, regularised SENTRO to support research for unions
Left: Sophia pictured
centre in blue.
contractualisation and stay true to workers are being laid off and in electrici cooperatives to protect their
his commitment to us during our last retrenched. In their place, workers are jobs from privatisation and re-invigorate
dialogue on Labour Day to issue an hired as contractors through labour-hire the cooperative business model through
Executive Order to fulfil this promise. firms and remain in a state of insecure embracing renewable energy generation.
PUBLIC SERVICE
employment. It is estimated there are In addition, we work with IOHSAD on a
“Leaders of the Nagkaisa labour over 24.4 million contract workers project to eradicate the worst forms of
RECOGNITION AWARD
coalition and Kilusang Mayo Uno, in the Philippines. Alarmingly such child labour in an urban poor community
who have varied views on a wide precariousness is continuing to grow and PAFPI to empower migrant workers
range of labour and employment across the Philippines. to build their awareness of HIV –AIDs.
Long-time PSA member and PSA Worksite issues, are one in putting a stop
If you know of a colleague who to contractualisation and other
Representative Sophia Kostoff-Kosmas Our Union Aid Abroad programmes in We ask you to JOIN US TODAY in
has recently received recognition schemes that employers use to avoid
was recently acknowledged for her 25 the Philippines work with a number of supporting our international solidarity
of service within the public sector, regularizing worker.
years service in the public sector and her strategic partners in trade union centers work. You can join for $15 per month
let us know and send in your
contribution to the Department of the and allied civil society organisations. or more (tax deductible).
photos to enquiries@cpsu.asn.au. “We want the President to issue an
Premier and Cabinet. For a number of years we have Visit www.apheda.org.au.
executive order prohibiting all forms partnered with the KMU on a trade
Congratulations on your acknowledgement of contractualisation based on the union education programme. Each year
of service Sophia. position we submitted.” this empowers 750 organisers and *Article as supplied by Union Aid Abroad APHEDA.
20 21
Public Sector Review Magazine | May 2018 www.cpsu.asn.auPSA PLUS
Your PSA membership can With PSA Plus, you can save on a wide
save you money on a brilliant range of dining and activities, from
New Zealand holiday! bungee jumping and bridge climbing, to
nature cruises, sailing opportunities and
If you are considering taking advantage of rounds of golf.
the PSA New Zealand Holiday Homes, you
can add extra value to your holiday with It is easy to use the PSA Plus program to
the PSA Plus Member Benefits Program. save on your next holiday. Simply search
activities in New Zealand on the PSA Plus
New Zealand is a picturesque destination, website psaplus.frequentvalues.com.au.
full of adventure and fun activities.
Select your desired activity,
and present the offer on your
smartphone to a staff member
THE HIDDEN SECRETS OF to redeem.
HOLIDAYING IN NEW ZEALAND
Savings on activities are
available on the North and
South Islands, so whatever
your holiday plans, there is
Record numbers of Australians have been world-famous Abel Tasman National Park Otematata, sleeping up to eight people, something for you.
heading to New Zealand for its many tourism and Carters Beach on the historic and and two at Te Anau, each sleeping up to
hotspots and much-needed getaways. unique West Coast. six people.
Photos supplied by PSA Plus New Zealand.
The total of Australian visitor arrivals for the Alongside this selection the PSA NZ Both Otematata and Te Anau are on the
latest year was up 4%, topping 580,000 has four ‘inland’ holiday home options shores of pristine lakes in a region that
and with an average length of stay of just
under 10 days.
that prove what a country of stunning
contrasts New Zealand is.
offers unrivalled access to a variety of
adventuresome outdoor activities – be PSA PLUS
Information on where holiday makers This year the geothermal wonderland
that trout fishing from Otematata or
taking in the breathtaking jewel that
YOUR MEMBER
head to isn’t as easy to find, but odds- of Rotorua deservedly made the New is Milford Sound, a UNESCO World BENEFITS PROGRAM
on favourites would be destinations like York Time’s 2018 list of global must-visit Heritage site, from Te Anau. psaplus.frequentvalues.com.au
Whitianga, Ohakune, Rotorua and Raumati places. As befits its popularity the PSA
in the North Island, and Nelson, Carters NZ has 12 holiday home units open for All in all, and whichever way you look at
Beach, Otematata and Te Anau in the
South Island.
booking to base your exploration of Mãori
culture, hot springs and geysers from.
it, PSA|CPSU members who are looking
to take advantage of the benefits of a
PSA Plus has you covered for your
And as chance would have it, these are Just three hours drive south of Rotorua
holiday in New Zealand and who are
ready to plan ahead are sitting pretty with
next New Zealand Holiday
ALL locations of PSA New Zealand holiday are the volcanic mountainscapes of our reciprocal holiday home deal. You can also save on everyday and sale rates offered by
homes that only a select few – hello South Ohakune, where the PSA has another major car hire companies Avis, Thrifty, Hertz and Apollo.
Australian PSA|CPSU members! – have seven holiday home units as an ideal Depending on location prices in New Self-driving holidays in New Zealand are a great way to SAVE UP TO
25%
access to, via our reciprocal holiday home gateway to any seasonal combination of Zealand are as low as $58 per night or experience the vast and varied landscape of the Land of
deal. skiing or hiking. $132 at the more luxurious end. It’s a
great deal with much more information
the Long White Cloud.
ON TRAVEL INSURANCE
Four of the affordable PSA holiday home Of course when it comes to iconic easily viewable at https://www.psa.org. PURCHASED ONLINE WITH
destinations in New Zealand can be found symbols of scenic splendour the nz/psa-plus/holiday-homes QBE WORLD ASSIST
To book, head to the PSA Plus website (Valid for new paid in full memberships only)
in coastal and beachside locations with a Southern Alps hold a special appeal. psaplus.frequentvalues.com.au and
PSA PLUS MEMBER BENEFITS PROGRAM
PSA PLUS
PUBLIC SERVICE ASSOCIATION
MEMBER BENEFITS
total of 26 booking options.
122 Pirie Street, Adelaide
PROGRAM
search car hire in New Zealand, then
GENERAL ENQUIRIES
2018/19
(08) 8205 3200
1800 811 457 (Toll Free)
(08) 8223 6509 (Fax)
enquiries@cpsu.asn.au
If you’re looking to experience what it’s www.cpsu.asn.au follow the links.
These choices are Whitianga on the like to be nestled within epic landscapes www.cpsu.asn.au
renowned Coromandel peninsula, Raumati then either the Waitaki Valley’s Otematata www.cpsu.asn.au
on the Kapiti coast just north of capital or the ‘mini-Queenstown’ of Te Anau
If you have any questions regarding the new program, or would like to provide a suggestion,
city Wellington, Nelson within reach of the are ideal – with one unit available at contact the PSA Member Benefit Team at memberbenefits@cpsu.asn.au.
20%
2 Off the total bill
2
176 Bar&Grill
www.cpsu.asn.au
176 Greenhill Road, Parkside SA 5063
20% Off the total bill
08 8291 7255
2
22 23
Public Sector Review Magazine | May 2018 www.cpsu.asn.auTHEATRE OFFERING
THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF
THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME
PRESENTED BY HEALTH PARTNERS The UK National Theatre’s acclaimed Fifteen-year-old Christopher Boone
TAKING CARE OF OTHERS production of The Curious Incident of the
Dog in the Night-Time is the winner of
has an extraordinary brain, exceptional
at math while ill-equipped to interpret
SUFFERING FROM ANXIETY
5 Tony Awards® and 7 Olivier Awards, everyday life.
including Best Play, Best Director and Best
OR DEPRESSION
Design. Tony Award® winner Marianne He has never ventured alone beyond
Elliott (War Horse) directs this “triumphant” the end of his road, he detests being
(Sunday Telegraph, UK) adaptation by touched and he distrusts strangers.
two-time Olivier Award-winning playwright When Christopher falls under suspicion
Simon Stephens who brings Mark for killing his neighbour’s dog, his
Haddon’s internationally best-selling novel detective work to identify the true
When you sense a change breakdown, health issue or redundancy; to thrilling life on stage. culprit, takes him on a journey that
in a friend or loved one’s but are often unaware depression and upturns his world.
behaviour it can be hard to anxiety can surface many months or even
Save $10.00 per ticket with Contact the PSA at
determine the cause. years after a stressful event.
your PSA Membership. memberbenefits@cpsu.asn.au
Sometimes we get so caught up in our for ticket information.
“Society has created a constructed image “It’s necessary for a support person to Date Thursday 2 August 2018
busy daily routine that we forget to check of how depression and anxiety look, but set their own boundaries and continue to
*Offer closes 4 June 2018
in with the people we care about to see if there is simply no one-size-fits-all when it have fun living their own life,” Lisa says. Time: 7:30pm
they’re doing okay. comes to symptoms for these conditions “Take time for yourself and reach out to
and when they occur,” Lisa says. others to create a bigger support network, Venue: Adelaide Entertainment Centre
Counsellor Lisa Bondarenko says we’re so you’re not carrying it all on your own.”
generally good at providing immediate $94.90 per ticket
“While out of character behaviours Cost:
KEEPING
(saving of $10.00 per ticket)
support after a recent death, relationship including actions, decisions and choices “Looking after someone battling mental
that don’t align with a person’s normal health can be equally as challenging as
personality can often be an indicator
something is wrong, very often there are
providing care to a loved one that requires
physical help, support and assistance IN TOUCH
no stereotypical warning signs.” in daily living. Never underestimate the
“One of the most common things facing
emotional strain this can have and make
sure you are equally cared for.” PSA MEMBER Stay up-to-date with union
news, campaigns and
family and friends when it comes to
supporting their loved ones suffering BENEFITS AND competitions by “liking” the
PSA Facebook page.
MEMBERSHIP
If you or anyone you know needs
depression or anxiety is a fear of not
support, contact: Simply search the ‘Public Service
knowing what it means and what they
Association of SA’ and “like” our page
ENQUIRIES
can do to help.” • Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the
to access PSA Facebook competitions
Suicide Call Back Service
and giveaways.
“As a support person, you shouldn’t be 1300 659 467
afraid to have an open conversation with for 24-hour Australian counselling For information on PSA
Please note that while we encourage
someone you are worried about. The services. Member Benefits, Holiday Homes,
our members to ask questions and
worst thing you can do is ignore them and for all of your membership
• Beyondblue 1300 224 636 interact with one another, as public
and hope they get better,” she says. enquiries you can contact the
for 24-hour phone support, online sector employees, members are bound
PSA between 8:45am – 5:00pm
chat, resources and apps. by their employer’s applicable Code of
“It’s important you encourage your friend Monday to Friday.
Conduct, Code of Ethics and any other
or family member in the first instance to • Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
Phone: (08) 8205 3200 applicable policies at all times. If you
make an appointment to see their GP for free confidential 24-hour
E: enquiries@cpsu.asn.au are unsure about what comments are
and create a support network around counselling for young people
appropriate to post, check out the PSA
them by engaging others.” aged 5 to 18. www.cpsu.asn.au comment guidelines that you can find
on our Facebook page to assist you
with navigating social media.
24 25
Public Sector Review Magazine | May 2018 www.cpsu.asn.auYou can also read
