Prior to the opening of the new Maitland Hospital, HNELHD proposed a restructure of the maintenance department. At the time there were two gardeners being managed by HealthShare and two gardeners being managed by the LHD. Management proposed to reduce the gardeners’ staffing profile from 3.6FTE to 2FTE.

HSU members immediately challenged this short-sighted proposal and pointed out that the service needs were in fact growing rather than shrinking. The initial structure covered both the old and new Maitland Hospital sites while still servicing Cessnock and Kurri Kurri Hospitals.

Members stood strong and the issue was placed into dispute. Over the last year and a bit many meetings were held, and members continuously rose to the occasion by attending and providing feedback. While this process continued, they still showed up to work every day, wondering if that would be their last day.

After a very uncertain 13 months, Maitland Hospital executive have today advised that while the current model of service is maintained, there will be no reduction of the gardeners’ staffing.

Because HSU members didn’t give in, workers can now breathe a sigh of relief knowing their jobs are secure once again. Members are congratulated for holding management to account and achieving this important win. Well done to everyone who got involved and fought!

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.