Since we only learned about Southern Cross Care’s plans from the media, who were given more information than workers and residents, we have been attempting to engage with SCC to find concrete details about their so-called “household model” and how it would impact your job.

They have continued to play games, and when we pointed out that they were in breach of the agreement, they arranged a meeting late yesterday evening. But when we met with them, they refused to answer any questions.

We know why they are behaving so unprofessionally and immaturely. It’s because they know what they are doing is wrong. They are attacking their workforce again, trying to blame federal government reform that will actually increase aged care funding. We know the truth. They’re cutting staff – they even accidentally admitted it yesterday.

We now must fight against this unfair treatment of staff and residents, and we’re going to do this in every way we can.

Firstly we are lodging a dispute with the Fair Work Commission to have them intervene to force SCC to start a proper consultation process.

Next week, we’ll be holding BBQs across the state jointly with residents and their families to talk about a campaign to protect staff and residents.

We are also approaching the federal and state governments to ask them to intervene and stop SCC from treating staff and residents with such contempt.

We will advertise these events shortly and HACSU organisers will also be visiting you at work to decide on what else we need to do.

If you have any questions, you can get in touch with us via HACSUassist on 1300880 032.