As part of the SDH Red Trolley Dispute, HSU representatives attended a conciliation in the Industrial Relations Commission with SDH management in front of Commissioner Muir on Thursday, 7 November.

This was the second conciliation. At the first, the Commissioner was not satisfied that management had properly consulted with all staff and their union.

Although the Commission considers the matter closed in the context of the IRC, the Commissioner did make some observations on the record. These included:

• The parties are to continue consultation/discussions.
• The new roster was still to be implemented on Monday 11 November.
• Management committed to take on any further feedback.
• They were also to consider any changes to the roster if needed.

Management have also committed to come together for a meeting on February 28, 2025, and possibly a report back to the Commission.

Management will consider suggestions on processes put in place. For example, if a DA is with a patient, do they defer a trolley run or ask someone else to do it?

They will also give consideration to the use of a service lift and floor access by using security swipes, so that DAs can remain on the same level and not have to go down to the basement.

Moving forward, discussions will continue between SDH and HSU representatives to monitor the implementation of the new roster and ensure HSU members are not required to work in an unsafe manner.

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New members can join at www.hsu.asn.au/join or call 1300 478 679.