As you may be aware, over the past few years the HSU has been pursuing members’ right to receive the Infectious Cleaning Allowance, which eventually resulted in a decision in June of this year with the Industrial Relations Commission creating a new version of Clause 32 – Infectious Cleaning in the Health Employees Conditions of Employment (State) Award.

Following this decision, the Ministry of Health sought further action to limit the application of the new clause to as few employees as possible, but was stopped by the HSU. This means the new clause is now active!

The new clause defines those entitled to the allowance as follows:

This clause applies to non-clinical employees who in any shift:

(a) Perform cleaning duties in infectious areas: or

(b)  assist in the lifting and/or transporting of infectious patients.

The new clause 32 can be viewed at this link. We encourage all members to read it. 

This win was only possible with the constant dedication and involvement of the membership. If your colleagues are not yet HSU members, encourage them to join the union today.

New members can join online at www.hsu.asn.au/join or by calling the union on 1300 478 679.