The Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) has welcomed the Albanese Labor Government’s investment in the safety of staff and customers in Services Australia workplaces across the country.
The investment of $314 million in comprehensive safety measures will work to prevent the alarmingly frequent acts of violence and aggression staff face.
The safety enhancements include the recruitment of up to 606 security guards, the implementation of advanced security features, the establishment of a central Security Operations Centre and enhanced service centre design for 35 centres identified as being at risk of high levels of customer aggression.
Services Australia staff play a critical role in providing essential support to Australians, often in challenging circumstances.
It’s crucial that staff be able to do that important work knowing they’ll be safe from acts of violence or aggression.
The CPSU looks forward to working with both the Albanese Labor Government and Services Australia to ensure the swift and effective implementation of these safety initiatives.
Quotes attributable to Melissa Donnelly, CPSU National Secretary:
“The CPSU is pleased to see a government finally acknowledging the need to prioritise safety as an integral aspect of public service delivery.
“I know that our members in Services Australia are relieved to see significant investment in their safety and the safety of the people they support every day.
“Too often Services Australia workers are walking into their workplace, worried about whether they will be safe at work that day.
“In recent months, our union has dealt with reports of physical violence, threats, and even instances of weapons being brought into their workplaces.
“CPSU members working for Services Australia have tirelessly advocated for improved safety measures to ensure the safety of staff and customers.
“The CPSU is ready to work with both the agency and the government to ensure staff are closely consulted as all recommendations made by Graham Ashton and these increased safety measures are implemented.
