Dear Member,

Western Sydney LHD union members have reported they are not being paid for performing higher grade duties.

Some members have reported Human Resources has told them this is due to the ongoing staffing freeze/changes to recruitment processes.

Regardless of budgetary constraints, an entitlement must be paid.

HSU has attempted to contact Western Sydney LHD for an explanation, and to arrange a meeting to discuss the so-called “staffing freeze” and “higher-grade duties issues”.

So far, the district has failed to respond.

If you are not being paid for higher grade duties, the HSU advises you to do the following:

• Stop doing the work – You cannot be compelled to perform higher grade duties in any case, but particularly if you’re not being paid for it.
• Talk to your colleagues – Chances are you are not the only one being underpaid. Refusing to perform higher duties together as a group is always more effective than saying no on your own.
• Get in touch with the HSU – Call 1300 478 679 to speak to one of the HSU’s industrial services officers.
• If you and your colleagues are in the same boat, you can also call your HSU organiser: Josh Dodsworth on 0456 911 767 (Auburn, Westmead, Cumberland) or Melissa Kelly on 0437 145 778 (Blacktown, Mt Druitt).

It’s disappointing to think WSLHD thinks HSU members will perform higher duties for free. Unfortunately, it’s not the first time union members have seen this.

If WSLHD isn’t going to come to the table, it’s up to HSU members to stand up and enforce our entitlements.

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.