In response to the loss of on-call in many stations across the state because of SWEP, back in 2018 the HSU applied for an Award at the IRC to assist members financially manage the financial impacts of losing on-call.

Unfortunately, the Full bench of the Commission denied the application on several grounds. The full decision can be found here. In summary, the Full Bench found that the removal of on-call, and the financial and personal impacts that this would have on workers, is not sufficient to warrant a claim for financial compensation to those workers who are affected by the change.

While we are disappointed that the IRC took this view, it is not all that surprising considering the recent decisions coming out of the Full Bench. 

If you have any questions about this outcome, please contact the Industrial Officer of the Ambulance Division, Olivia Forsyth-Sells at [E-Mail not displayed].

In unity,

Gerard Hayes

Secretary, HSU NSW/ACT/QLD