Dear Member,

HealthShare NSW (HSNSW) has informed the HSU it will cease paying the Refuse Allowance to ineligible staff from 2 December 2024.

HSNSW claims it recently conducted a review of allowances paid to staff, which identified that the refuse allowance, as provided under clause 12(iv) of the Health Employees (Conditions of Employment) Award 2023, has been incorrectly paid to staff who are ineligible to receive it.

HSNSW states the refuse allowance of is only applicable under specific circumstances, such as when an incinerator is present on-site and used by an employee, or when an employee, whose primary duties do not include cleaning, is instructed to carry out refuse disposal tasks.

HSNSW assures the HSU employees who have received this allowance incorrectly in the past will not be required to repay any overpaid amounts.

You can view the correspondence at the below link:

• Letter to HSU

What do you think? 

It is important for union members to lead this discussion. How will this affect you?

Please send your feedback to [E-Mail not displayed] by COB 15 November with the subject HSNSW Cessation of payment of refuse allowance for ineligible staff. 

Your union at work

 Everyone affected by these changes needs to be a union member. Members deserve to have control over their working lives. Tell your colleagues now is the time to join.

Do you know someone who isn’t an HSU member? Encourage them to join our Union today and have a say at work. We are always stronger when we stand together. 

New members can join at www.hsu.asn.au/join or call 1300 478 679.