Action needed to protect essential services in tough times

The Community and Public Sector Union today backed the funding criticisms outlined by the Federal Public Service Commissioner, saying serious action was needed to ensure essential services were able to cope with growing demand.

CPSU Acting National Secretary Mark Gepp said the need for proper funding was urgent as the country’s expected economic downturn puts greater pressure on the Australian Public Services.

“More Australians are expected to face tougher times ahead and public servants are working hard to deliver the essential services needed,” Mr Gepp said. 

“But they are increasingly ham-strung by the Federal Government’s routine and arbitrary budget cuts of 3.25 per cent.

“Arbitrary budget cuts have eaten away at the essential services Australians rely on, costing jobs, reducing wages and slashing the service standards that Australians expect.

“Australians, especially now in our growing hour of need, expect the highest standards in Government services and that’s why it’s urgent we get the funding right.

Mr Gepp also said that an inquiry into Public Service funding for the entire service would be needed to ensure essential services were maintained at the standards Australians expect.

“The CPSU urges the Federal Government to undertake a root and branch inquiry of Public Service funding to ensure Australian public servants are armed with the funding and resources needed to tackle the big challenges that Australia faces.

“The onus now is on the Federal Government to tackle funding problems now ahead greater pressures on the essential services Australians rely on in the future.

The CPSU plans to launch a major campaign against the Federal Government arbitrary budget cuts ahead of the Federal Budget this year.     

For more information please call Mark Gepp on 0418 316 858 or Tim Fitzsimmons (EMC) on 0423 375 522