On 22 December, Nepean Hospital Operations Assistants stopped work for two hours to fight back against unfair treatment and unreasonable expectations.

Operations Assistants tried working with management to resolve the litany of issues facing perioperative services. Members entered into negotiations with the LHD in good faith to ensure continuity of patient care and the resolution of outstanding issues.

In return, NBMLHD management walked away from crucial aspects of the agreement, undermining faith in the dispute resolution process.

Members are disgusted in the way NBMLHD have treated them and disappointed in the lack of progress since our last meeting on 5 December 2022.

However, OA members have already started to make a difference by taking action. This is what happens when you stand strong and belong to your Union.

Starting 1 January, Operations Assistants will no longer be required to enter the private hospital for pickups and recoveries. Management have also agreed to advance eligible members to the Senior Operations Assistant classification.

This is a big win – the longstanding issue of private transfers is finally being brought to a close, and it’s only because members took action to force management to listen.

HSU members will meet with the executive again prior to the report back to the IRC on 12 January to raise several other outstanding issues management have failed to address.

Well done to each and every OA member who participated in industrial action.

Know someone who isn’t an HSU member? Tell them to get on board and have their say today! New members can join at www.hsu.asn.au/join or call 1300 478 679.