We’ve heard about the proposed transition of Child and Family Services from DCT to the Department of Education, but the implementation and logistics of that change remains hidden. This whole process around the future of Child and Family Services has been subject to secret squirrel talks and decisions, so it’s time they offered you some transparency. Drip feeding info just creates angst among the workforce and you deserve better.

If the government wants to move services between departments, they must be open and honest with about the reasons why and about what the final picture will look like. Any major change impacts on all aspects of your working conditions and one obvious question that the brains trust is staying silent on is, “what award will I be under if moved to DOE?”. A transition from HAHSA to the TSSA would see substantial changes and reductions in many of your current working conditions while others will disappear completely.

It’s most concerning that the whole concept is a rehash of a South Australian model that historically failed - and doing the same thing and expecting different results is, well, crazy.

HACSU will have regular meetings to discuss any progress and ensure any transition has the least impact on your working, financial and mental wellbeing. To do this, we must be vigilant and unified so if you hear any concerning news or rumours of transitional arrangements, please let us know.