It's time to plan for this year's reduced activity period. Your agreement states that you are not required to work during the Christmas period unless directed by the Departmental Secretary Kathryn Campbell and only if it is to meet essential operational requirements.
The 2012 Reduced Activity Period
RAP starts on Monday 24 December 2012 goes to Tuesday 1 January 2013
(inclusive). This period includes the APS Holiday for all DHS employees, which
is on Thursday 27 December 2012. You use three days annual leave or other leave
for the days that are not public holidays or the APS holiday.
We expect more staff will be able to spend time with family and friends at
Christmas
Unlike last year, in 2012 the Secretary will be able to better assess
essential operational requirements in the new department.
My manager is saying I have to work. What do I do?
Your agreement presumes you do not work unless the DHS Secretary decides that
you are required to work for essential operational reasons. For example, we can
expect some staff in the Emergency Call Centre will be required due to the
nature of their work.
In making the decision that some staff may be required, the DHS Secretary
needs to balance the essential business need and your preferences. That means,
“The capacity of a workplace, team or business line to meet it’s
internal or external service delivery requirements; and
The needs and preferences of the employees in that workplace, team or
business line to take leave during the relevant period” (G26.5 of your
agreement)
I’d like to work during the RAP, what can I do?
If you are keen to work over this period, let your manager know and they can
work with you to explore suitable options. This may mean working from a
different office or doing different type of work for the few days.
The department can direct workplaces and business lines close for the RAP and
you would be required to take leave.
Members make it happen
By joining your union and working with your delegate you ensure the
conditions you want are the ones you get. Speak with your delegate about joining
today.
