Port Stephens Veterans & Citizens Aged Care (PSVCAC) have announced they have decided to close the Bill King Centre in Fingal Bay on Friday 3 February 2023.

Arrangements are being made to offer all Bill King residents accommodation at Harbourside Haven Gardens at Shoal Bay.

PSVCAC have written to the HSU to notify us, as they are required to do. Consultation requirements are outlined within your Enterprise Agreement – where an employer has made a decision to introduce major changes, they must notify employees and their representatives.

Management have advised they will hold staff meetings and discuss specific circumstances with individual staff. According to the Enterprise Agreement, PSVCAC must do the following:

• Discuss the change with affected employees
• Discuss the effects the changes are likely to have on employees and measures to avert or mitigate the adverse effects of such changes on employees
• Give prompt consideration to matters raised by the employees and/or their representatives in relation to the changes

Remember – HSU members have protections in place and support available to them. These protections have been fought for and won by HSU members during bargaining.

HSU members at Port Stephens are in negotiations right now for a new Enterprise Agreement. We have provided management a list of claims we are fighting for, including improving the consultation clauses mentioned above. If you would like to get involved in the process, please contact HSU Bargaining Officer Ciaran Byrne via [E-Mail not displayed].

If you have questions or concerns about the closure, or need assistance, please get in touch with the HSU Member Services Division via [E-Mail not displayed] or 1300 478 679.

We can only represent HSU members during this process. Encourage your workmates to join online at www.hsu.asn.au/join or phone 1300 478 679.