Today HSU members took a stand against the planned reintroduction of unfair parking fees at Westmead Health Precinct. Over 200 staff rallied to demand fair fees and an overhaul of the broken waiting list that has kept thousands without a permit for years. In the middle of a cost-of-living crisis, hospital management wants to bill you $1500 a year for the privilege of driving to work. We showed up in force to show that staff think this is unacceptable. 

This afternoon the HSU lodged a dispute with Western Sydney LHD and Sydney Children’s Hospital Network against the reintroduced parking fees, asking for the status quo to be maintained during the dispute process in line with Clause 26 of the Award. This would mean continued free parking for those with permits and continued access to staff parking for those without, until a resolution can be achieved.

The lack of genuine consultation with staff about parking fees is unacceptable and raises many questions about the detail of the proposal and how they were arrived at.

Tomorrow HSU delegates and officials will meet with the Health Minister’s Office to present our case for fairer parking rates. Your show of strength at today’s rally will remind the Minister that health workers will not stand by while the government tries to pinch money out of household budgets during a cost-of-living crisis.

Members will be kept updated regarding the outcome of this meeting and your continued fight for a fair parking system. 

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.