The Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) is pleased to see another significant step being taken today, in implementing recommendations made in the Set the Standard report by former Sex Discrimination Commissioner, Kate Jenkins.

The Albanese Labor Government will today introduce Bills to establish the Parliamentary Workplaces Support Service (PWSS) as an independent entity, and to amend the MoPS Act.

CPSU members have made significant contributions in shaping both the PWSS and MoPS Act Amendments Bills.

Once the PWSS is officially established they can get on with the important work of driving cultural change and professionalisation, including:

  • Professional development and training
  • Trauma-informed support and advice for staff
  • Support and resources to improve management practices across offices
  • Implementation of code of conduct and behavioural standards
  • Measures including conducting a review of workloads and staffing resources

The MoP(S) Act Amendment Bill will improve transparency and assist in supporting a safer, more respectful and professional workplace, including improved processes around hiring and termination of employees.

The CPSU has urged the Parliament to support these Bills so the PWSS can be up and running as soon as possible and work can begin on addressing the rest of the ‘Set the Standard’ recommendations, including the establishment of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission.

Quotes attributable to Melissa Donnelly, CPSU National Secretary:

“Our union is incredibly pleased to see further progress being made in implementing the 28 recommendations made in Kate Jenkins’ ‘Set the Standard’ report.

“CPSU members have been instrumental in ensuring that the PWSS is an independent entity that all staff can have confidence in turning to, including through improved privacy and consultation measures.

“The CPSU calls on the Parliament to throw their full support behind these Bills so that the PWSS can be up and running as soon as possible and work can begin on addressing the rest of the ‘Set the Standard’ recommendations, including the establishment of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission.

“Meaningful staff engagement and consultation must continue in the service design and set up of the PWSS. And once the PWSS is established they can get to work on supporting staff, conducting a review of workloads and staffing resources, the setting and standardisation of policies and training across workplaces, and the continued work of professionalisation and cultural change.

Media contact: Tori McGregor 0429 000 620