Union Demands Interim Pay Increase Resolution
Queensland’s frontline health workers have intensified their campaign by focusing on the Stafford by-election to secure a fair wage increase. Since November, a 3.5% pay rise agreement has remained unresolved, leaving thousands without an increase.
Allied health professionals, scientists, and clinical assistants under the Health Practitioners and Dental Officers agreement negotiated this increase on November 1, 2022. Despite the agreement, arbitration at the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission continues without an immediate resolution.
The union Together has applied for an interim pay increase to implement the agreed rise, yet Queensland Health opposes this due to existing wages policies.
Alex Scott, Secretary of Together, stated, “This is a system failure. Workers did the right thing, reached agreement, and are now stuck in limbo because of rigid policy settings.”
Union Strategy and Campaign Efforts
Major party spending in the Stafford by-election will be matched by the union, urging candidates to resolve the pay dispute. The campaign involves community engagement, a public forum, advertising, billboards, and members speaking directly with voters.
Mr. Scott emphasised, “The Stafford by-election is an opportunity for the Government to provide a clear answer to health workers.”
Located within the Stafford electorate, The Prince Charles Hospital employs many workers affected by this dispute. Together has requested urgent meetings with the Premier and Health Minister to find a resolution.
With voting set for May 16, the union’s campaign is expected to extend beyond the election. They warn of ongoing action until the government intervenes to resolve the pay dispute.
As the by-election approaches, the union’s efforts are gaining momentum. Thousands of workers remain without a wage increase despite the agreement reached in November. Together argues that these skilled workers have waited too long for their deserved pay rise.
The union has applied for a temporary wage increase to ensure workers receive the 3.5% rise from November. However, Queensland Health cites policy constraints in opposing this application. Together insists this interim measure is crucial.
In the Stafford electorate, union members will engage with the community through events like public forums and direct voter outreach at shopping centers, streets, and polling booths.
Immediate governmental action is necessary, the union asserts. Local candidates are being urged to commit to addressing the wage dispute. The union’s persistent efforts highlight the by-election as a platform for change.
Mr. Scott stated, “The Stafford by-election is a crucial moment. Will the Government fix the policy settings and deliver the pay rise these workers have already earned, or will they continue to allow this process failure to drag on?”
The campaign is set to continue for months, with the union warning that action will persist until the government adequately addresses the wage increase issue. The Prince Charles Hospital, a significant employer in the area, underscores the local impact of this campaign.
