Dear Member,

HSU members at The Marion Hostel recently raised concerns Uniting has changed the workplace practice around removing trolleys for CSE employees to carry trays to residents’ rooms, overnight.

Workers were only notified via a Teams message on 2 December 2024, with CSEs expected to “carry one tray at a time” to the residents from lunch from 3 December.

There was no other written notice to workers or your union about these changes and HSU members quickly raised concerns about the how the changes would impact their workload, their physical wellbeing and safety.

After members put these concerns to Uniting, management admitted the procedure lacked “an appropriate consultation” and apologised for the “confusion and unsettlement” the Teams message had caused. Management also added the matter will be reviewed next year and that consultation would be carried out for further changes. The notification has now been withdrawn.

This is a great win for HSU members who stood together, called out an issue and worked collectively with their local HSU organiser!

Know your rights

• In accordance with your Enterprise Agreement (EA),your employer must notify the relevant employees and the HSU as your representative of the definite decision to introduce a change if the change is likely to have a “significant effect” on employees.
• Your employer has a duty to consult with workers directly affected by a matter related to wok health and safety so that workers are given a reasonable opportunity to express their views and to raise any safety related concerns.

We’re stronger together!

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.