Who is affected by this notice?

This notice is for all DAFF clients that use AQIS export certification services.

What's the issue?

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry (DAFF) has resumed negotiations with the Community & Public Sector Union (CPSU) and staff on a new Enterprise Agreement for the next three years.

Departmental employees (including AQIS staff) recently rejected a pay offer and the CPSU has been granted permission by Fair Work Australia for union members to conduct protected industrial action.

The Department is very aware of the impact that industrial action might have on our service delivery and is continuing negotiations with the CPSU in the hope that an agreement can be successfully concluded and industrial action can be avoided.

In the event that industrial action is taken, the Department will attempt to minimise the impact for our staff, clients and stakeholders.

The CPSU must provide the Department with seven working days notice before commencing industrial action. The CPSU has foreshadowed that workplace bans and stoppages will commence from 11 August 2011. The intended bans include but are not limited to overtime, invoicing of export inspections and travelling away from regular work. A stoppage of 2 hours from 3pm to 5pm on Thursday 11 August 2011 is also proposed.

The Department, through AQIS, will keep you informed on progress with negotiations and provide early advice on what, if any, impact there might be in the case of industrial action.

Regards

Australian Quartantine &
Inspection Service - AQIS