Dear Member,

It’s vital you are being paid your correct rate for your work.

Recently HSU members raised concerns regarding the rate of pay for qualified Care Service Employees who hold and use a Cert III as part of their role.

The Aged Care Award sets the minimum pay rates for workers in the aged care industry. You cannot be paid less under your enterprise agreement, than you would otherwise have been paid under the Award.

For most workers who hold a relevant Cert III qualification and use it in the course of their duties, the most appropriate Aged Care Award classification level is Aged Care Employee – Direct Care Level 4, which is paid a base rate of $30.11 per hour.

Following a constructive discussion with management, UPA have given a written undertaking they will conduct a review of employees classified as CSE Grade 1 (employed as of 1 July 2023 or after that date) with respect to eligibility for a re-classification to CSE Grade 2. This review will also capture new entrant employees who, through working 500 hours, have become eligible to progress from CSE Grade 1 to CSE Grade 2 during this period.

UPA have also agreed to assess the criteria contained in the Aged Care Award Direct Care Level 4 for relevant employees.

If you hold a Certificate III and are classified and paid as a CSE 1, you may be eligible for consideration for a regrade to CSE 2.

If you would like further advice or assistance regarding the eligibility for a regrade to CSE 2 please send your details including classification and rate of pay and length of service with UPA to HSU industrial officer Tim Judge at [E-Mail not displayed] and he will be able to advise you further on your eligibility for the regrade.

Encourage your workmates to join the HSU. Together you have strength in your workplace. New members can join online at www.hsu.asn.au/join or call 1300 478 679.