Local government workers provide vital frontline services to the community. But years of underfunding and cost-shifting by the state and federal governments, together with rate capping, have hit councils hard. There is a funding crisis about to hit Local Government, and now is the time for ASU members to fight back.
The COVID-19 pandemic has shown just how excessive the use of casuals is in Local Government. With many being stood down and treated unfairly. Whilst we acknowledge there is a valid reason for using casuals to cover short term skills gaps the use of casuals at most Councils is excessive.
For over 2 months now, the ASU has repeatedly requested data with figures to show how many casuals/agency staff are employed through the City of Melbourne, and for how long.
We are still waiting for this information to be provided to us.
We are calling on the City of Melbourne to provide this information and convert those long term casuals who work regular or systematic hours to permanent staff and to give all casuals access to paid special leave if they are required to self-isolate or diagnosed with COVID-19.
Casual workers have no access to sick leave. A lot of them are also underemployed and do not get enough hours to live on. This means that they often go to work when they are sick, their only choice if they want to pay their bills and eat.
Workplaces that do not provide support to workers to declare potential illnesses are increasing the risk to everyone.
What can you do?
- The union movement is calling on the Morrison government to guarantee 2 weeks paid special leave for all workers. Sign the petition here to show your support.
- Are you or have you been casual or do you have concerns about the use of casuals? Tell us your story.
- Forward this to a casual worker or non-member and ask them to join the ASU at www.asu.asn.au/asujoin
For further information please contact one of your ASU Delegates or
ASU Organiser Hayley Davies | hdavies@asuvictas.com.au
