It’s time to take action in Services Australia.
Last month CPSU members in Services Australia voted in favour of industrial action in a Protected Action Ballot, so that when the time was right, members would be able to take industrial action to pressure Services Australia and the government for better pay and conditions in bargaining.
The time for action is now.
Industrial action is commencing in Services Australia with a two-week ban on the use of Auxiliary codes starting Tuesday 1 August.
Here’s what you need to know to take part in the auxiliary code ban.
The action will start at 00:01 hours on Tuesday 1 August 2023 and end at 23:59 hours on Tuesday 15 August 2023.
During this period of time, members taking part in the action will still complete their scheduled phone shifts and normal activities. However the only codes members will use during this period will be: “Ready”; “Not Ready”; “Work health and Safety” and if you’re Child Support you will also use “Case Mode”. Further instructions will be made available to CPSU members.
Once you commence the Auxiliary code ban, the CPSU recommends that you continue it until the end of the notified period.
Not all CPSU members use Auxiliary codes. You can support your colleagues in our campaign to get a better offer by downloading and displaying a desktopper from the Resources tab on this page.
This industrial action is legally protected.
It is unlawful for any Services Australia manager to threaten, intimidate or take adverse actions against you for taking part in protected industrial action.
Do I have to tell my manager that I am taking part in the action before-hand?
NO. The only time that you are required to advise your employer that you are taking action is at the time the action is commencing. CPSU members are encouraged to use the following response if asked: “I have not decided whether I will be taking part in the action” .
Do I need to record my participation?
Yes. Members are required to record all participation in action - the agency will provide you with guidance on how to record your participation.
Will taking action affect my pay?
If you take part in the auxiliary code ban, Services Australia may:
- Deduct a proportion of your wages. Services Australia must notify you in advance of the action.
- Pay you in full. If Services Australia do not notify you of a proposed deduction, it must pay you in full.
Services Australia previously deducted approximately 50 cents per day for workers engaging in auxiliary code bans.