Tax office tries to axe conditions

The Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) has called on Australian Taxation Office (ATO) staff to vote against a new agency agreement proposed by management. Voting was to place between June 23 and June 30.

The agreement would cut the conditions of all ATO workers, but would especially affect "non-ongoing" staff (those on short-term contracts).

Personal leave (including sick leave and carer's leave) would be cut from 18 to 17 days a year for permanent workers, and to 12 days for non-ongoing staff.

Overtime rates would not be paid until 6.15pm for ongoing staff and until 9pm for non-ongoing staff. Now, overtime rates start at 6pm.

Job security is a key issue. Management has announced plans to replace ongoing employees by non-ongoing and labour-hire staff. The CPSU wants limits on the use of non-ongoing and labor-hire staff to be put into the agency agreement.

The Australian Services Union, which represents a small minority of ATO workers, has supported ATO management's proposal. Some ASU members have resigned in protest and joined the CPSU.

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.