Bankwest has recently announced further increases to trading hours in some locations to start from 26 September 2011.

Branch managers will now look at the new opening hours for their store and establish if there is a need to change rosters. The changes will vary between stores.

If you work at one of the impacted branches, your manager will commence a period of consultation where your feedback on the hours should be considered.

Do I have to change my hours?

Your workplace rights are outlined in the Bankwest General Enterprise Agreement 2011, including the process for changing rosters.

Clause 24.27(e) says:

“Roster schedules for a business unit will be determined at least 4 weeks in advance. Any agreement reached should be in writing and placed on the Colleague’s file and will become effective with 4 weeks notice or sooner if so agreed.”

How are the changes made?

Changes will take place after discussion between you and your manager. Clause 24.27

(a) of the Bankwest Agreement says:

“Effective and efficient allocation of working hours should be achieved through agreement where possible, by colleagues and line management discussing personal and business needs and taking into account:

• business requirements
• family responsibilities and child care arrangements
• health, safety and transport;
• other available options such as different roles, locations, job sharing and hours worked by other Colleagues; and
• any other relevant factors”

What If I don’t agree with the hour changes?

Clause 24.27(f) of the Agreement says:

“Colleagues dissatisfied with their allocated rostered hours should raise their concerns with their manager in the first instance but can utilise the dispute settlement procedure in this Agreement”

The FSU is ready to provide support

If you are a FSU member and are not satisfied with the outcome of the discussions around any changes to your rostered working hours you should contact the FSU Member Rights Centre on 1300 366 378 for representation and support. If are not yet a FSU member you can join online at www.fsunon.org.au