Late last week CBA responded to our dispute letter and the response is incredibly disappointing.
It does nothing to address the claims we have put to them. CBA denies that this is a major workplace change and goes on to outline what ‘consultation’ they believe has taken place with you.
They refer to research and feedback received though Your Voice culture surveys and other pulse surveys without providing any details.
You can read a copy of our letter to CBA here and their response here.
Escalation to Fair Work
Given the CBA’s dismissive response, we do not believe that internal discussions will help to resolve the dispute. We have now referred the matter to the Fair Work Commission for conciliation. The Commission is an independent umpire whose role is to help parties come to a resolution.
What can I do in the meantime?
While we have raised a dispute on this matter, you are still required to follow the direction of CBA, including returning to the office from 17 July.
CBA group employees currently have two options available regarding requests to work from home – working flexibly under the National Employment Standards (Clause 20) and Remote Working (Clause 21). You can view those clauses here.
If you do not currently have a Flexible Work Arrangement (EA Clause 20) or Remote Working Arrangement (EA Clause 21) or are otherwise being directed to work from the office (which you disagree with) we encourage you to apply for one of the above arrangements as soon as possible.
Requests for the above should be based on your individual circumstances. Templates to assist in your request can be found here and here.
If you need assistance, please contact our Members Rights Centre on 1300 366 378.
In unity,
Your FSU Team