When it comes to major changes being made that may have an impact on our roles, consultation is key. In fact, it’s a requirement for any employer to consult about major changes either under the Banking, Finance and Insurance Award, or where there is an Enterprise Agreement in place.
Staff in the Member Engagement Team (MET) at Aware Super recently discovered the importance of the requirement to consult. Affected employees were told about a permanent change being made to their roles, which, over time, could have significantly modified their roles and undercut their career paths.
Members approached the FSU, and together we raised a dispute regarding management’s lack of consultation.
With the support of the FSU, members worked collaboratively with management and achieved a successful outcome. Ultimately, management agreed that:
- there would be no permanent changes to the roles in the MET.
- employees performing roles in the MET could opt out of the campaign work, which was part of the proposed changes.
- additional support and training would be provided if employees did participate in the campaign work.
- Operational Key Requirements would not be negatively impacted because of this campaign work.
“Without the FSU helping Aware Super staff raise our concerns together, we wouldn’t have won this successful outcome,” said FSU member Jess Wason.
“It’s a great result that gives us all more certainty over our roles and has highlighted why it’s always better to work together through our union.”
It’s a great win, and one that highlights what we can achieve when we work together.
Remember, if your employer is proposing major changes that could have a significant effect or impact on your role, they are required to consult with you about it.
If you’re worried about changes being made to your role without proper consultation occurring before any changes are implemented, contact the FSU immediately so we can assist you.
Proper consultation includes your employer:
- discussing the effect the change is likely to have on you.
- discussing the measures your employer will take to avert or mitigate the adverse effect of the change on you.
- providing all relevant information to you in writing.
- seeking your views about the proposed change and genuinely considering them before making any final decisions.