CPSU met with Defence management on Friday 11 April 2008 to discuss the impact of the budget cuts announced for the Department.
It is clear from these discussions Defence has not yet made decisions about where the cuts will be made. CPSU expects to be informed about any developments immediately, and will be strongly representing your views to Defence management.
What was discussed?
The Groups have been tasked with putting together savings proposals
The proposals are being considered by the Defence Committee this week
No decisions have been made yet. The Department says that the savings will be about “rebalancing” or shifting resources to high priority areas
CPSU has scheduled two further meetings with Defence, one prior to the Federal Budget, one immediately after
CPSU expects to be informed of any developments immediately, including involvement in discussions with the Department before decisions are made
Get organised, become a CPSU contact
The important thing now is to ensure you have a say. This means that every workplace needs a CPSU contact person. If you can be a CPSU contact for your workplace, floor or section, email Fiona.richardson@cpsu.org.au
Your union puts your views to management
Hundreds of CPSU members completed the online survey to have their say on the cuts. CPSU made sure Defence was aware of your views. CPSU called for:
Staff input, and genuine consultation on savings proposals
Savings proposals to be strategic and support long term efficiency, rather than quick cuts that undermine the quality of work and leaves staff with a higher workload
Acknowledgement that $1 billion savings per year cannot be achieved by cutting expenditure on civilian employment.
CPSU is in your corner. With uncertainty around job security, workloads and the impact of the cuts on your career options, union membership offers you protection, advice and support. Join online here https://web.cpsu.org.au/join
