NO BULLETIN FOR NEXT 2 WEEKS

Yes, I am taking some leave and will be overseas. But business as usual as John Ellery will take your calls.
 0428 942 878 for industrial matters & advice
 0447 365 433 for administrative eg payments, applications, etc
If you have another phone number, it is most likely my personal phone number. Please do not use it while I am away.

POST NEWCASTLE DISPUTE

The dispute went before the FWC this week for conciliation. No resolution was found and the matter is now likely to move to mediation - a step in the dispute process before arbitration.

TELSTRA SEC DISPUTE

The FWC has handed down its decision answering several questions about the interpretation of the EBA. The Commission found several ways that members can become shiftworkers. We had argued that members could opt out of shift work because they were never "engaged" as shift workers. The decision runs to 107 pages as it deals extensively with the evidence of about 20 of our members. The findings do not resolve the dispute as Telstra wants new rosters. We are still considering our position. See the Decision

TELSTRA BREAK UP

Telstra is now moving to have the break-up (InfraCo, ServeCo etc) approved by shareholders. Once complete, some members may face a transfer of business to a new company. While this is a legal move at this stage, it does mean that technically your employer will change. Letters of offer will be made. We will review these when they are produced. We do not expect and problem with the letters.

SPF CHANGES

Post is moving ahead to reallocate the satellite sites to SWLF and SGF. This is not opposed. But we have not agreed to fixed shifts. This is a matter for a LWG to consider and there should be no pressure on you to accept a fixed shift. SPF has a fixed night shift filled with volunteers. This was a local arrangement with no objections from other members.

TELSTRA GAT DISPUTE

We are moving to a step 3 meeting. However Telstra has changed its position and have moved closer to our claim for longer shifts. We need to consider the change and respond to them.