Following a number of representations in Fair Work Australia (FWA), the CPSU and Defence have been able to resolve the CPSU's dispute about Defence's current Voluntary Retrenchment (VR) Program and the associated job abolition activity.
This is a great win for CPSU members and clearly demonstrates what we can
achieve collectively.
What is the outcome?
FWA accepted CPSU’s submission that this is a change activity and Part C of
the DECA applies, contrary to the DEFGRAM issued by People Group on 1 August,
and Defence has now committed to undertake an agreed process. To put this into
practice the following will happen:
Defence will provide the CPSU with a breakdown of each position
identified as potentially abolished.
Defence will consult with CPSU on a Staff Transition Plan consistent
with Part C of the DECA in relation to employees remaining in Defence who do
not accept a formal offer of VR.
Any firm decision on individual jobs proposed for abolition are ‘on
hold’ except for those positions where there the substantive occupant has
expressed interest in a VR. Defence will provide the CPSU with a
justification for why a position has been proposed for abolition, an outline
of the consultation undertaken with the substantive occupant of the position
and other affected employees in the work area, and a description of what is
proposed to happen to the work of that position.
The CPSU will be consulting with members to make sure that this
information is correct, so if you are not yet a CPSU member but would like
to be consulted you need to join today.
A joint Union/management Working Group will meet regularly from next
week to deal quickly with any issues that arise from this checking process.
The CPSU will also refer any unresolvable issues back to Fair Work Australia
if necessary.
Defence has committed to consulting with the CPSU before abolishing any
jobs in regional areas where there is little prospect of reassigning the
substantive occupant of the position.
Keeping Defence accountable – it’s up to you
This outcome clearly demonstrates the value of being a member of a strong and
active union in Defence. The CPSU continues to deliver good outcomes for Defence
members but this doesn’t happen by accident – it happens because of the support
of CPSU members and delegates. When you join the CPSU, you help keep Defence
accountable and you help protect all employees’ rights.
Join today online or by calling 1300
137 636.
