Latest news

We’ve got some updates below about asbestos at 65 Martin Place, office attendance monitoring at 8 Chifley, and the restructuring in the RBA’s Communications Department.

Being an FSU member has never been more important, so if our colleagues aren’t members, encourage them to join before things get even more interesting around here.

Are we being watched? Monitoring office attendance at 8 Chifley Square

Members have recently expressed concern about how the RBA is monitoring office attendance at 8 Chifley.

Reports on attendance rates are being circulated within departments, and the bank has confirmed that staff are tracked through swipe card access and, to a lesser extent, through monitor connections.

The FSU is particularly focused on the broader implications of staff tracking in the finance sector. For more insight, watch our video of Nicole speaking to Parliament about AI and employee tracking.

Asbestos concerns at 65 Martin Place

Following concerns raised by members regarding potential asbestos exposure, the FSU reached out to the RBA for clarification.

While the bank has provided a summary report indicating low to negligible risk of potential exposure, they have refused to share the full report with us.

In response to these concerns, some staff members have chosen to join the asbestos register, which involves lifelong testing for asbestosis to ensure ongoing health monitoring.

We are continuing to push for transparency and encourage any staff with concerns to reach out to the FSU.

Restructuring in the Communications Department: What we need to know

You may have seen the recent AFR article covering the restructure within the bank’s Communications Department, which has forced staff to reapply for their positions.

In previous years, the RBA would consult with and notify the FSU of these changes to ensure that obligations were met, protecting staff roles and mental wellbeing.

However, this practice has now ceased, putting employees at increased risk during times of change.

The lack of notice provided to the FSU is concerning, especially as even commercial banks like the big four provide a heads-up on upcoming changes. We’re actively pursuing improvements on this front.

Have our RBA colleagues joined our union?

As an FSU member, we’re entitled to full representation and access to legal services.

However, RBA staff who join after an issue has already arisen may only receive general advice. With major changes and restructuring continuing at the RBA, it’s more important than ever for all staff to join the FSU.