Can I speak up when I’m representing members or am I just there as a silent
observer?
Yes, you can definitely ask questions and actively represent your member as
necessary. You are there as a representative, not just an observer or witness.
Government policy is that employees have the right to representation from their
union in the workplace. An individual employee’s choice to be represented by
their union must be respected by all parties in the workplace. Where an employee
elects to be a member of a union, their Agency must respect the employee’s right
to deal on workplace matters through their representative.
Are union delegates allowed to or distribute union information and consult with
colleagues?
Absolutely. In fact, it is government policy that agencies should facilitate
employee access to their representatives in a fair and reasonable way. This
specifically includes the provision of information to employees by their
representatives.
Does my employer have to support me in my role as a CPSU delegate?
Government policy now states that the role of workplace representatives,
including union delegates and employee representatives, is to be respected and
facilitated. It is Government policy that every employee is free to decide
whether or not to join and be represented by a union in the workplace, including
in bargaining. It is unlawful for anyone to try to stop an employee exercising
this choice by threats, pressure, discrimination or victimisation.
Can I get union training in representation and negotiation skills?
Yes. The CPSU provides a
range of courses. It is once again becoming normal practice in the
Australian Public Service for delegates to attend these courses. You may already
have the right to training leave in your
collective
agreement. It is also government policy that agencies facilitate reasonable
access to training. This may, for example, include leave for training during
paid time.
Centrelink KYR1 - part-time work Your agreement continues to allow you to work part-time with a key change ensuring your part-time agreement cannot be changed without your consent.
Centrelink KYR2 – suitable evidence Your agreement allows you to take five personal leave absences in a year without providing ‘suitable evidence’.
Centrelink KYR4 - pay point advancement All permanent ongoing employees, not at the top of their Band, who receive a performance rating of three (fully effective) or more (see KYR#5 Performance Management) are eligible for pay point advancement on their anniversary date (AD).
Centrelink KYR5 - performance management All ongoing and non-ongoing employees who are in the same role for longer than six months are required to participate in Centrelink’s performance management system.
