A $3.6B budget cut and wage capping seems to be the reward, according to Saturday's pre-budget drops to the media, for our heroic efforts during 2020 combining to fight bush fires and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Our Agreements run through until March 2024 and our wage outcomes are secure but the saving dollars in the forward estimates will be compounded once the new wage cap is implemented because it will cut the supplementation to Departments and Agencies and that will hurt service delivery as PS Employers move to mitigate this loss of revenue and implement the dodgy employment practices we know all so well.

CPSU is meeting with Secretaries this week to ensure jobs are protected and the spirit of Jeremi Moule’s (DPC Secretary) communique to Department Secretaries is adhered to. 

CPSU has also sent comments to IRV who are coordinating policy implementation on our non negotiables about secure work and use of contracts, contractors, and consultants. 

The value of our federally registered VPS Agreement 2020 will come to the fore now as it stipulate how mobility (transition) is to be used and this will ensure everyone and their employment is protected.

Most disappointing from a Labor Government is the return of 'LNP back office' rhetoric as if there's two classes of PS employees and services aren't affected if you only cut those that support the service deliverers.

"You look a bit stupid holding the hose if there's no one to turn the tap on," Karen Batt said.

CPSU will keep members briefed following Thursday’s budget.