DSS staffing dispute

Issue 

DSS staffing dispute

Robert Johnson

BRISBANE — The ongoing dispute over jobs in Social Security looks set to escalate.

Management has unveiled plans to axe jobs in a number of offices in Queensland. Twenty-four jobs have been identified in one teleservice centre in Brisbane; another 25 have been targeted in Townsville. An unspecified number of jobs have been identified in Area South.

Redundancy packages have been offered in some places, but management is reserving the option of forced redundancies if there aren't enough "volunteers". Managers have also indicated that they will target "poor performers" for redundancies.

One teleservice centre here has reacted with a log of claims covering staffing, workload and a number of working conditions.

Public Sector Union members are angry that money for packages is available, but no money can be spared to pay existing staff. Management has targeted areas with high workload for redundancies, using the "recovery" in the economy as a justification to sack people.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.