United Magazine Summer 2020

UNITED 

Official journal of the United Services Union • Summer 2020 

CENTRAL COAST 

COUNCIL MEMBERS 

TAKE UNITED ACTION 

RUNNING A 

COVID-SAFE 

CONFERENCE 

NEW GEN 

AWARD 

WINNERS 

USU SHOP 

OPEN FOR 

BUSINESS 

VALE EMILY CALLACHOR 

CHAMPION FOR 

WORKING PEOPLE

United is the official journal of the United Services Union 

Editor USU General Secretary Graeme Kelly OAM. 

Print Post: 100007536 

To contribute to United please contact USU 

Manager Administration and Finance Erik Jansen on 

(02) 9265 8211. 

EXECUTIVE 

President: Glen McAtear 

Vice President: Sharon Sewell 

General Secretary: Graeme Kelly OAM 

Treasurer: Ross Crawford 

Alby Bordignon, Raffaele Catanzariti, Carl Cleaver, Larry 

Freeman, Katie Gillen, Arthur Jenkins, James Koval, 

Bernardo Lynch, Michael Maggioros, Stephen Mulholland, 

Natalie Piggott-Herridge, Jim O’Malley, Anna Maria 

Saglimbeni, Thao Tran, David Walsh, Jeff Wearing 

HEAD OFFICE 

Level 7, 321 Pitt St, Sydney, 2000 

Phone: 1300 136 604 • Fax: (02) 9261 2265 

Support Team: 1300 136 604 

Email: united@usu.org.au • Website: www.usu.org.au 

OFFICIALS 

Manager Administration and Finance: Erik Jansen 

Manager Metropolitan: Steve Donley 

Manager Energy, Utilities & Private Sector: Peter Campise 

Training Officer: Narelle Rich 

Manager Industrial, Rules, Governance & Compliance: Daniel Papps 

Legal Special Projects Officer (Metro): Sean Szabo 

Metro Organisers: Joel Conomos, Sue Kealy, Sandie Morthen, 

Irene Nair, Shane Pinter, Bill O’Kell, Zoe O’Rourke 

Energy, Utilities, Private Sector & Airlines: Troy Dunne, Michael 

Jones, Melissa Pond, Clare Raffan, Thomas Russell, Paul Sansom 

Support Team: Jenny Chen, Melissa Coros, Jeny Skutnik 

REGIONAL OFFICES 

Northern Branch 

Newcastle Office: 

125 Racecourse Road, Rutherford, NSW 2320 

Ph: (02) 4962 1444 • Fax: (02) 4962 1758 

Manager North: Stephen Hughes 

Organisers: Luke Hutchinson, Steven Thomas, Leith Barber 

Industrial Officer: Noel Martin 

Port Macquarie Office: 

1/157 Gordon Street 

Port Macquarie 2444 

Ph: (02) 6584 7787 

Fax: (02) 6584 6924 

Organiser: Damien Welsh 

New England Office: 

1/226 Goonoo Goonoo Road 

South Tamworth 2340 

Tel/Fax: (02) 6771 4911 

Ph: (02) 6771 4911 

Fax: (02) 6771 4911 

Organiser: Mark Hughes 

Southern Branch 

Wollongong Office: 

Suites 1-3 100 Market Street Wollongong 2500 

Ph: (02) 4226 4784 • Fax: (02) 4227 6951 

Manager South: Gary Vann 

Organisers: Rudi Oppitz, Aarron Vann, Michael Jones (C&A) 

Industrial Officer: Stuart Geddes 

Central West Office: 

Shop 11-12 

142 William Street 

Bathurst 2795 

Ph: (02) 6334 4825 

Fax: (02) 6331 2834 

Organiser: Shane Reece 

Murray Office: 

Unit 7, 54-56 Fitzmaurice St 

Wagga Wagga 2650 

Ph: (02) 69317990 

Fax: (02) 6931 7271 

Organiser: Darren Wait, 

Jed Lawton 

NATIONAL 

National Secretary: 

Robert Potter 

Northern Office: 

Shop 2, Mid City Arcade 

57 Prince Street 

Grafton 2460 

Ph: (02) 6643 5299 

Fax: (02) 6643 2799 

Organiser: John Hickson 

North Western Office: 

PO Box 1811 

2/46 Church Street 

Dubbo 2830 

Ph: (02) 6881 6766 

Fax: (02) 6881 6816 

Organiser: Jamie McKinnon 

Riverina Office: 

Suite 8 

165 Lachlan Street 

Hay 2711 

Ph: (02) 6993 1419 

Fax: (02) 6993 1419 

Organiser: Brian Harrington 

ACT Office: 

3/289 Canberra Avenue 

FYSHWICK, ACT 2609 

Organiser: Poni Ravula 

WE CAN LEARN FROM 2020 

“ It is said that how 

a society treats its 

most vulnerable is 

always the measure 

of its humanity. 

“ 

Glen McAtear 

USU President 

think most of us are looking forward 

to the end of 2020. However 

I 

it is important that we look at what 

we have learnt from the extraordinary 

events of the past 12 months. 

Starting the year with devastating 

bushfires, we seem to have lurched 

from one crisis to another, with some 

people suffering more than others. 

It is said that how a society treats its 

most vulnerable is always the measure 

of its humanity. 

This pandemic has made many people 

vulnerable who never thought 

they would be. 

It is perhaps too early to tell whether 

that makes us a better society - a society 

that values and helps those most 

in need, but I sincerely hope that is 

one of the victories of 2020. 

As a union movement that is what we 

do. We stand united and that makes 

us stronger. It means the vulnerable 

at work no longer stand alone and are 

no longer vulnerable. 

This is something that makes me extraordinarily 

proud and you should 

be proud too, because you are what 

makes us strong. As a member you 

are our beating heart and it is you 

that drives what we as a union do. 

That is why I was so proud to be able 

to hold our Conference this year despite 

the Covid restrictions. Our structure 

means that our Branches have a 

direct input into how our union runs 

via our Conference. 

I applaud Graeme and the team for 

making it happen. It took a lot of organisation 

and hard work to ensure 

the Conference could take place and 

operate so smoothly. 

It was an honour to be able to hold 

our Conference base in Cootamundra 

and I thank all who made it possible, 

especially the Council who provided 

us with such great facilities. The image 

on page 24 will give you some insight 

into what went into the event. 

On behalf of all members I also congratulate 

and thank Graeme Kelly for 

his outstanding contribution to the 

members of the USU as he celebrates 

several milestones. (see pages 6-7) 

On a sad note I would like to pay tribute 

to Emily Callachor who has been 

taken from us too early. Emily has been 

a shining light in our union for many 

years. As a member, a delegate and a 

union official she was never afraid to 

ask the tough questions and stand up 

for the vulnerable. She was someone 

who made our society a better place. 

The fight against injustice and inequality 

was what drove her. 

In 2021 the union will be announcing 

an ongoing Award to be presented 

each year in her honour. 

I wish all members and their families 

well as we move into 2021. 

2 • United Summer 2020

IT’S CALLED RESPECT 

Members, in years to come when I look back on 2020, 

I wonder what I will remember. What will we all tell 

our grandkids about the year Covid19 changed the world? 

I will remember hardship, isolation, shock, sadness and 

for some, despair. 

Or has 2020 been a time of re-alignment? Will my memories 

instead be of a time when people across Australia and 

the world focused on the important priorities in life - seeing 

family and friends, hugging and holding loved ones, 

going out for community events and having a secure job 

to be able to support our families? 

Central to all of this is respect. It runs through everything 

we stand for as a union. Respect of our fellow human beings 

to have dignity, to have equality - to get a fair go. 

Has 2020 re-set our understanding of respect? In many 

instances we have seen enormous acts of courage and humanity. 

We saw it earlier in the year when our firefighters 

put everything on the line to protect lives and homes. 

We have seen it daily as our members face down the virus 

and continue to do what they can for those who need 

their help. 

We have seen people rally to help their neighbours and to 

give to those who suddenly found themselves without a 

job or a home, alone and isolated. 

We have seen the best of humanity as employers focused 

on the safety of their workforce and keeping people in 

jobs. 

Unfortunately we have also seen the other side and that 

hurts because that is a side with no respect. 

I was appalled when Central Coast Council threatened not 

to pay their workforce because of a financial mess they 

had created. 

I am shocked when I see the treatment of already struggling 

aviation workers who have gone through a nightmare 

from day one being told their job will be done by an 

iPad! There is no respect from Qantas in that! 

However I refuse to have my memories dominated by 

people scrambling for toilet paper or the CEO ripping 

apart our national carrier. My memories will be of the 

respect we gained for each other as we faced this crisis 

together and with dignity. 

That respect and dignity is on every page of our United 

“ 

Respect. It runs through 

everything we stand 

for as a union. Respect 

of our fellow human 

beings to have dignity, 

to have equality - 

to get a fair go. 

“ 

Graeme Kelly OAM 

USU General Secretary 

journal, from our Central Coast Council members on pages 

4-5 to Manager Stephen Hughes’ advice to members 

facing allegations of improper conduct on pages 38-39. 

It is also represented by tributes to some union giants including 

Glen McAtear (p 8) and John Hickson (p 9) as well 

as outstanding lifetime commitments from members like 

Olga and our new life members Chris, Tony and Greg on 

page 18. 

This edition also celebrates New Gen Award winners 

Samantha and Erin (p21) as well as hard working delegates 

like Sinead (p 16) and Committee member Kim (p 23). 

I also applaud our Walgett Council members who turned 

picnic 2020 into an event that helps the community (p 30). 

Do you want to wear your union pride? Check out how 

you can purchase merchandise from our new online shop 

on pages 28-29. We are really proud to be launching the 

shop and hope you will use it at www.usu.org.au/shop 

Sadly this edition also pays tribute to our amazing 

Organiser Emily Callachor who passed away on 4th 

October. Emily is a reminder of everything our union 

stands for and her loss has been felt by everyone at the 

USU, all her delegates and members and many in the wider 

union movement. Our thoughts are with her family and 

friends as we come to terms with her death. 

On a final note, on behalf of President 

McAtear and the USU Executive I wish all 

members and their families a safe and 

Happy Christmas and a respectful 2021. 

United Summer 2020 • 3

CENTRAL COAST COUNCIL ME 

NO CONFIDENCE IN CEO GARY MURPHY AN 

On 20 October Central Coast Council did the unthinkable. They announced that they may not be 

in a position to pay their 2,000 employees. The United Services Union immediately lodged urgent 

proceedings in the NSW Industrial Relations Commission seeking an intervention to ensure 

workers were paid. The union also held urgent discussions with Local Government Minister 

Shelley Hancock and the Office of Local Government regarding the financial crisis facing the 

council, resulting in the commitment of funds to ensure workers were paid and local services 

continued to operate. 

In late October and early November hundreds of United Services Union members at council depots across the 

Central Coast unanimously supported a motion of “No Confidence” in Central Coast Council CEO Gary Murphy and 

all members of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT). 

Mass meetings of USU members occurred at numerous council depots, with workers expressing their strong, 

collective voice on issues of major importance. The details of this motion are as follows: 

Friday 30th October – Woy Woy Depot 

The USU Membership passes a vote of ‘No Confidence’ in the 

Council’s “Executive Leadership Team” (ELT) led by the current 

and absent CEO Gary Murphy. The reasons for the vote entail 

the following: 

The shambolic attempt of the ELT to manage the Council finances 

with unacceptable and continual consequences for staff 

wages, job security, Council’s services, and reputation. 

The shameless approach of putting all Council workers’ wages 

at risk on 20th October 2020, in a bizarre attempt to force State 

Government intervention to clean up ELT’s mess. This left the 

need of our Union to ensure our wages were paid through both 

Ministerial and NSW IRC intervention. 

The trend of Council not acting with any genuine intent to 

consult with our Union representatives. Furthermore, ELT has 

sought to resolve a culture where genuine consultation is 

non-existent. 

The ELT’s financial mismanagement has now led to lower job 

security for USU Members with the payment of weekly wages 

and Council’s financial future still not guaranteed whilst rash 

decisions are leading to less take-home pay and lower conditions 

of employment. 

The perceived arrangement of double standards of accountability 

being promoted by the ELT; one for employees, and one 

for ELT, whereby employees are expected to uphold policy and 

procedures, while, ELT are self-serving and seemingly not accountable 

(Despite this apparent financial disaster). 

The perception of deliberate misrepresentation by the ELT of 

the Council’s finances over a long period which has now led to 

this current dire situation. 

The undermining of pride and dramatic low level of morale 

across the organisation which transpired with the amalgamation 

process but has advanced since the appointment of the 

current ELT leading to an adopted plan to downsize the workforce 

and service. 

The perception that ELT continually wants to take away or diminish 

our terms and conditions of USU members. 

The failure of ELT to provide any answers or information to 

the ratepayers or the workforce on how this financial mess occurred 

and not providing any real measures that will protect 

workers and community services. 

The lack of transparent engagement and lack of respectful industrial 

relationships being promoted by the ELT on the rightful 

place of the Union (USU) within the Central Coast Council. This 

has led to the Central Coast Council having the highest number 

of IRC disputes lodged in the State to gain resolution on workplace 

matters for USU members. 


MBERS TAKE UNITED ACTION 

D THE EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP TEAM 

Microsoft Teams 

Meetings – Administrative 

and Remote Members 

Wednesday 28th October – 

over 200 members 

Thursday 29th October – 

over 170 members 

Friday 6th November – Long Jetty Depot 

Wednesday 28th October – Erina Depot 

Wednesday 28th October – Erina Depot 

Wednesday 4th November – Charmhaven Depot 

USU organiser Luke Hutchinson said 

that as a result of this collective action, 

significant progress was now 

being achieved. “It is pleasing to report 

the wide range of members who 

attended the meetings, including 

members for all functions of Council 

(including Administrative areas) was 

very strong,” said Luke. 

These matters also received strong 

local media interest (TV, Radio, and 

Print media) with the USU and our 

members gaining exposure from 

these engagements. 

Due to this collective action, significant 

progress has now been achieved 

on these matters/motions, which 

also included direct meeting with 

the newly appointed Administrator 

Dick Persson AM and Acting Interim 

CEO Rik Hart. It was confirmed in this 

meeting with the General Secretary 

Graeme Kelly in attendance that all 

weekly wages, entitlements and superannuation 

are safe and are guaranteed 

to be paid each week. 

The USU will continue to protect jobs 

and entitlements and ensure Council 

is held accountable to the Award. 


CELEBRATING GRAEME’S COM 

10 September 2020 was a big day for our union and our General Secretary Graeme Kelly OAM. 

Not only was Graeme celebrating his tenth anniversary as General Secretary of our great union, the day 

also marked the 30th anniversary of Graeme working for the Union. A day to be celebrated indeed! 

Graeme has been part of the USU family since he joined the (then) Municipal Employees’ Union when 

he was just 16 years old. USU President Glen McAtear paid tribute to Graeme’s commitment to the 

members of the United Services Union: 

When Graeme became General 

Secretary back in 2010 the 

members at Snowy River Council 

congratulated him with this tribute. 

On behalf of the Executive and staff of the United Services Union, I’d like 

to ask you to join me in saying thank you and congratulations to Graeme 

Kelly who, on 10 September, celebrated his 30th anniversary working with 

the Union, and his 10 year anniversary of being appointed (and later elected, 

twice) as USU General Secretary. 

It would be hard to overstate just how important Graeme’s contribution has 

been - for the old MEU, the USU, and for workers across New South Wales and 

Australia. 

That his 30 year anniversary working for the Union and his 10 year anniversary 

as General Secretary occurred on the same day is a remarkable coincidence. It 

was a great opportunity to say congratulations, and thank you for his service 

to our union. From a delegate at Canterbury Council, to an Organiser, Southern 

Regional Manager, and General Secretary, Graeme’s path has seen him rise to 

the top of our Union and the top of the Australian Trade Union movement, 

without ever losing sight of our membership, and what it means to serve them. 

In 2019, Graeme was awarded an Order of Australia Medal for his contributions 

to industrial relations in Australia. 

In the years I’ve served in the USU, from delegate to Executive Member to 

President, Graeme has been a partner in making the USU the best it can be – 

as a relentless advocate making sure that all workers have a fair go, as well as 

challenging us as a union to always do better by our members. 

So please join me in saying thank you and congratulations to Graeme for the 

vision, hard work, and grit that have marked his time at the MEU and USU, 

from delegate to General Secretary. 

Graeme, you have made this Union what it is today – the mighty USU. We look 

forward to many more years of your continued leadership. 

- USU President Glen McAtear 

“I am proud to have worked with 

Graeme. I have been fortunate 

to work with some great officials 

and I consider him one of them. 

Congratulations comrade.” 

JACK KLOWER 


MITMENT TO THE USU FAMILY 

WAYNE WOOD 

“Congratulations, Graeme. 

You are an inspiration to ASU 

members in WA as well as USU 

members in NSW. I am proud 

to work alongside you at the 

National level and I thank you 

for all your advice and support. 

I am proud to say you are my 

friend.” 

“Graeme is someone who may never have 

aspired to be the leader of the Union but he 

is a born leader and his leadership qualities 

are outstanding. Graeme’s ability to rally 

people around him of a similar/like mind is 

remarkable, and they, like him want the best 

for everyone else.” 

- Former USU President Steve Birney 

MICHELE MALIK WRIGHT 

“Congratulations Graeme on 

your 30 years service and what 

an achievement. I’m proud to be 

a part of this union.” 

KATIE GILLEN 

“Congratulations Graeme. How 

lucky we are for your dedication 

and service.” 

“I can honestly say that 

Graeme was my best 

Organiser ever. 

He cared and never 

bulls&#tted.” 

- USU Manager North 

Stephen Hughes 

CHRIS WELLINGTON 

“Congrats Graeme, awesome 

effort & achievement! We are 

lucky to have you as our General 

Secretary mate!” 

JIM O’MALLEY 

“Well done mate big 

congratulations from the north 

west branch. Well deserved.” 

CHRISTINA SAVAGE 

“I am proud to be a member 

of the USU and a former 

Executive Member who served 

with Graeme who I admire and 

respect.” 

THOMAS KATTNIG 

“Greetings from Austria to 

Australia. Congratulations 

Graeme, well deserved!” 

A PROUD MOMENT: Graeme with his daughter Danielle (left) and wife 

Sally when he was presented with his OAM. “My family gives me the 

support and strength that drive me.” 

SUSIE ESCOTT 

“Congratulations Graeme. It’s so 

good to know we have a genuine 

caring individual at the helm.” 


GLEN MCATEAR 

WE’RE NOT THE ONLY ONES 

WHO THINK HE IS A LEGEND! 

A life of service. That’s how the Cootamundra Times described Glen McAtear in an article titled “Local 

Legend” published on 10 September 2020. At the USU we agree! Glen was elected President of the USU in 2019. 

The Times article gives members some insight into what makes Glen tick and anyone who knows him will not be 

surprised to find the words service and justice peppering the article. Some of you may be surprised to find out he 

was in the police force, even more of you will be surprised that he has acting talent! But no one who knows Glen 

will be surprised to find out about his commitment to family, the community and his union. This is an excerpt of 

the article published in the Cootamundra Times. The full article is published at www.usu.org.au/glen-mcatear 

“Since leaving high school at the age of 

fourteen years and nine months to commence 

a boiler making apprenticeship 

Glen has progressed through his life with 

great enthusiasm. On completing his apprenticeship 

Glen began training as a 

draftsman and was involved in the plans 

for Centre Point tower and the massive 

lights at the SCG. After he left the NSW 

police force, he opened his own 3-D paint 

shop in the main street of Cootamundra. 

Currently Glen is the President of the 

United Services Union and Manager of 

Regulatory Service at Cootamundra- 

Gundagai Regional Council. 

Glen was raised in the western suburbs of 

Sydney in St Marys where he met his wife 

Janet at St Mary’s High School when they 

were thirteen. 

[As a police officer] Glen worked on a 

number of major cases, including the trial 

of the Milperra bikie massacre in 1984 

and was also part of the anti-theft squad, 

which was stationed in Penrith. 

Glen had a desire to go to the bush and in 

1985 he was transferred to Cootamundra 

with Janet and their eleven month old son 

Brendan, their daughter Bridie was born 

in Cootamundra in 1986. 

The greatest lesson Glen learnt during his 

years as a policeman in Cootamundra was 

to be part of the community and to become 

involved on every level. 

It was during these years that Glen found 

his true passion, acting. He was asked to 

appear on stage in a CADAS production 

along with Daryl Holder, Kim Bates and 

Ross Callaghan, they were to appear in 

their police uniforms as a surprise to actors 

and audience alike. Their appearance 

brought the house down and Glen was 

hooked! Glen has appeared in a variety of 

CADAS productions. 

After 12 years in the Police Force Glen was 

to be transferred back to Sydney. Glen’s 

life was in Cootamundra so he made the 

painful decision to resign from the police 

force in order to raise his two children in 

Cootamundra. 

Glen has always been a staunch believer 

in unions and joined the United Services 

Union when he commenced at council. 

He quickly rose through the ranks of 

council as well as the union and is now a 

manager at council and the NSW president 

of the United Services Union (USU). 

The union has over 30,000 members 

throughout NSW and Glen is also privileged 

to sit on the National executive of 

the union, the Australian Services Union 

(ASU). Being President of the Union 

puts Glen in contact with workers across 

the state, nationally and internationally. 

Workers’ rights and conditions are at the 

heart of Glen’s passion for unions and he 

volunteers his time in the pursuit of fair 

working conditions for all his members. 

“Without Unions we would not have annual 

leave, sick pay and superannuation 

just to name a few things,” Glen said 

“I don’t want to have to see my grandchildren 

having to fight for basic working 

conditions.” 

Life is busy for Glen but his family is the 

most important aspect of his life. He 

is very proud of his son and daughter 

who have chosen to devote themselves 

to helping others. Glen is also proud of 

his wife Janet who shares his passion for 

Cootamundra. Glen also loves nothing 

better than spending time with his three 

grandchildren Brock nine, Marli seven 

and Leo three. 

Cootamundra Times • 10 September 2020 


A LIFETIME COMMITMENT 

JOHN ROBERT HICKSON 

- 60 YEARS MEU/USU MEMBERSHIP 

USU General Secretary Graeme Kelly OAM pays tribute to John Hickson for his continued 

and ongoing commitment to the union and its members and to his strong passion for 

social justice which is reflected in the work he does. 

John was born in Redfern in 1945. 

Whilst at school he worked as a 

pageboy in the Regent Theatre in 

George Street, Sydney. 

John left school at 15 years of age and 

succeeded in getting a job with the 

Sydney City Council as a messenger 

boy in the Sydney Town Hall. 

You could only start work after you 

joined the Union so John went to the 

QVB, Market Street end, and paid one 

(1) shilling to become a member of the 

Municipal Employees’ Union (MEU). 

At the age of eighteen (18) John was 

transferred to the Bay Street Garage to 

work as a youth looking after the Lord 

Mayor’s car, a 1963 Pontiac. He loved 

driving that car and after John turned 

21 he then worked as a chauffeur, 

parks truck driver, mechanical plant 

operator, garbo and in the Sydney 

Town Hall as an attendant serving different 

Lord Mayors and Councillors. 

NEVER FORGOTTEN 

For ten years John conducted the 

memorial service for workmates 

Alec Carter and William Arthur 

“Bluey” Favell who were killed in the 

Hilton bombing in George Street, 

Sydney in 1978. In 1991 John arranged 

the presentation of the Trust 

Funds set up by the union at the 

time of the bombing, to the children 

of Alec and William. John has endeavoured 

to attend the memorial 

every year. 

In 1971 John became a delegate for 

the MEU and attended his first State 

Conference in 1973. John also attended 

the first Trade Union Training 

(TUTA) for delegates from all unions 

at Sydney University. 

John was appointed as a Salaried 

Organiser in 1987 in the Clarence 

Street office of the MEU. 

The councils served by John were 

Manly, Pittwater, Mosman, Warringah, 

Waverley, Woollahra and Leichhardt. 

The Counsellor, Summer 1991 

Caret-le John (right) with 

members and 

Graeme Kelly at 

the 2019 Hilton 

memorial service. 

Caret-do John Hickson 

receiving Life 

Membership from 

ASU President 

Henrietta Moran in 

2010. 

In 1996 John moved to Grafton to 

open a regional office there and 

serviced councils from Kempsey to 

Tweed – a huge area. 

John is now a life member of the former 

MEU, USU as well as the ASU – 

John believes that there is nothing 

like achieving social justice for fellow 

workers and continues to follow 

his principles by working through his 

retirement doing periods of secondment 

and mentoring newly appointed 

officials for the USU. 

John is a USU legend and is respected 

by all delegates, members and 

employers. 


VALE EMILY CALLACHOR CHAM 

It is with great sadness that the USU advises that on Sunday 4th October 2020, we lost Organiser Emily Callachor, a 

true champion of the worker who was an advocate for those in need. Emily commenced work as a USU Organiser 

in December 2017. Before that she was an active delegate at Ausgrid and was also the Chairperson of the USU 

Women's Committee. 

Emily will be missed by all at the union. Our delegates and members pay tribute to her energy and commitment. Our 

thoughts are with Emily's family and friends. The union will be establishing an Award, with input from our Women's 

Committee, to honour Emily. More details will be announced in 2021. 

USU General Secretary Graeme Kelly paid the following tribute to Emily at her funeral service: 

Emily Callachor, a comrade, a mate and a champion for working people, Emily was a 

voice for those in our society that all too often are not heard. 

Emily was integral to her USU family but more importantly to the broader union movement. 

Her sustained activism and commitment in advocating for the enhancement of 

the lives of working people across our state and beyond was evident to all who worked 

with her. 

Emily literally loved her job. It has been said that Emily just recently commented that 

this is what she was meant to be doing. It was the catalyst for her wider cause, a cause 

that in some ways defined Emily with a commitment rarely seen in someone so young, 

eradicating social injustice, taking on inequity for all workers and entrenched and systematic inequality for 

women. 

Emily was very passionate about fairness and equality for indigenous Australians and it is her commitment to 

these causes that are recognised and valued by those who knew and worked with Emily. 

At the United Services Union we know Emily was a fearless advocate 

for working women and we are all aware of the significant contributions 

Emily made within the USU and across the movement on many 

issues. 

Emily was a long term member of both the Ausgrid and USU women’s committee where she uncompromisingly 

advocated for the introduction of paid domestic violence leave in a number of workplaces across the USU. 

Emily was highly respected amongst her peers, delegates, members and employer associations. Her passing has 

had a profound effect on many in and around the union movement. We find comfort in that we were all a part 

of an extended family for Emily and that we were privileged to witness Emily’s care and compassion for others. 

Her distinguished reputation as a strong and effective advocate for those who needed to be heard is her legacy, 

this sets the benchmark for others, her colleagues and associates who will continue her commitment to support 

those who suffer inequity in their working and personal lives. 

We at the United Services Union will never forget and always remember Emily and we aim to ensure that others 

who join our team aspire to the values set by our friend and colleague Emily Sarah Callachor. 

♦ 


PION FOR WORKING PEOPLE 

CELEBRATING EMILY 

“The mantle has 

been passed to us now 

and it is our responsibility 

to ensure that our 

country and our society 

moves forward in terms 

of equality for all.” 

Samantha Anne 

Wimala 

“The whole time I 

worked with Emily at 

AUSGRID she was a 

fierce Union advocate, 

extremely helpful & truly 

believed in the cause.” 

Candice Rhind 

“A brilliant comrade 

who was so generous 

with her activism and 

friendship. A huge loss to 

our movement. Love to 

all Emily’s family, friends 

and union comrades.” 

Kate Minter 

“Working with 

you on the Women’s 

Committee was an 

inspiration and an honour. 

Always remembered 

and in our thoughts.” 

Vicki Hodges 

“I found Emily very 

committed to her beliefs. 

With fierce determination 

and advocacy Emily worked 

to get better conditions 

to help those vulnerable 

members in our union.” 

Bev Spearpoint 


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the environment and your super 

LGS is committed to a genuine responsible investment 

strategy and our aim is to earn strong long-term 

sustainable returns for our members. 

We seek out positive investments for our members and 

restrict investments that have a harmful effect on our 

community and the environment. 

NEGATIVE 

ESG INTEGRATION 

OVERLAY 

POSITIVE 

SRI 

SCREENS 

SCREENS 

COMPANY 

ENGAGEMENT 

OUR 

APPROACH 

INVESTMENT 

PRACTICES 

INDUSTRY 

COLLABORATION 

TRANSPARENCY 

PROXY 

VOTING 

ACTIVE OWNERSHIP 

Winner of the prestigious 

02 SuperRatings Infinity Award for 03 Certified by peak industry body 

a record seventh time 

as a responsible super fund 

LGS has been confirmed as an industry leader in responsible 

and sustainable investment by taking out the 2021 SuperRatings 

Infinity Award. 

The Infinity Award recognises the super fund most committed 

to environmental and ethical responsibilities. LGS came 

out ahead of other nominees including Australian Ethical, 

CareSuper, Christian Super, Future Super and HESTA. 

LGS was one of the first funds to be certified as a 

responsible super fund by the Responsible Investment 

Association Australasia (RIAA), the peak industry body 

representing responsible and ethical investors across 

Australia and New Zealand. 

This ensures the highest standards of responsible 

investment across the whole fund. 


Earning long-term sustainable 

returns for our members 

04 

Seeking out positive investments 

across the world 

05 

LGS seeks out investments across the world that 

have a positive impact on local communities and 

the environment. 

Echoenergia is one of these investments; a wind 

platform operating in the north-east of Brazil. The 

private company builds, owns and operates wind 

assets with a target of generating one gigawatt. 

The company created local jobs and invested in 

programs to provide quality education facilities for 

the local community. 

Sustainable property using renewable energy 

to reduce emissions 

In Australia, LGS manages one of the most sustainable direct 

property portfolios, including four office buildings, three retail 

centres and one multi-unit industrial estate. 

Four buildings in the portfolio utilise onsite renewable energy 

generated from solar panels, and all other energy procured by 

LGS is offset with 100% GreenPower, ensuring we only use 

energy from 100% renewable sources. 

MarketPlace Leichhardt recently installed the largest shopping 

centre rooftop solar system in the inner west of Sydney, 

reducing emissions by more than 400 tonnes of CO 2 each year. 

06 07 

Certified carbon neutral 

by measuring, reducing and 

offsetting our emissions 

Our aim is to lead by example and in July this year LGS 

became one of only five super funds to be certified carbon 

neutral through Climate Active for the LGS Sydney head 

office and our seven regional offices. 

We closely measure our emissions, offsetting and reducing 

where possible and publicly reporting our results. 

LGS supports a number of offset projects including 

re-forestation in New South Wales, the Rimba Raya 

biodiversity reserve in Indonesia, and a wind power 

project in Rajasthan, India. 

We actively own and manage all 

our investments on your behalf 

LGS is an active owner of our members’ investments. 

We analyse companies from every angle and actively 

engage with Boards and management to improve their 

environmental, social and governance practices. 

LGS votes at 100% of our shareholder meetings, voting 

against company resolutions on a range of issues, such as 

excessive executive remuneration, and recently in favour 

of resolutions on climate change disclosure. 

Issued by LGSS Pty Limited (ABN 68 078 003 497) (AFSL 383558) as Trustee for Local 

Government Super (ABN 28 901 371 321) (Local Government Super). This article contains 

general information only and does not take into account your personal objectives, situation 

or needs. You should consider obtaining professional financial, taxation and/or legal advice 

tailored to your personal circumstances prior to making any financial decision. 


MEMBERS ENDORSE PROPOSED 

ENTERPRISE AGREEMENT @ VIRGIN 

On 12 November members voted 

overwhelmingly in favour of the 

union endorsing the proposed Virgin 

Australia and ASU Guest Services and 

GCC Enterprise Agreement. 

Don’t forget where we started 

from in these negotiations! 

At the start of negotiations management 

put on the table a series of 

brutal and permanent cuts to working 

conditions, as well as a total wage 

freeze until 2023. Members told us 

that they would not accept a long 

term wage freeze or locking in permanent 

cuts. Workplace representatives 

pushed back and made sure that 

management understood that we are 

open to short term emergency measures 

to ensure the company is in a 

JETSTAR ROSTERING MUST BE FAIR! 

We’ve called on Jetstar to adopt 

a set of measures to fix front of 

house (FOH) rostering and make it fair! 

Delegates and organisers met with 

Jetstar in early November to hear 

their response to measures. 

Jetstar responded to our concerns 

about recalling FOH workers by 

December. As we go to print we are 

still discussing all the details however 

Jetstar have said it may be possible to 

strong position as it emerges from 

voluntary administration and the 

devastating impacts of COVID-19 on 

airlines. 

We were guided by members every 

step of the way and we were able to 

get resolutions on every issue that 

members told us was important. 

What claims did we force 

management to drop? 

Caret-Sq AMCO will stay covered by the 

Agreement 

Caret-Sq Part Time employees will keep 

Days in Lieu 

Caret-Sq There will be no change to the Part 

Time overtime trigger – employees 

will continue to get paid Over 

Time after 8 hours on shift 

approve some waitlisted Annual Leave 

and Special Leave Without Pay (SLWOP) 

requests beyond November 2020. 

To fix rostering issues Jetstar has said 

that they can guarantee an ADM will be 

rostered at almost every port 7 days’ a 

week – this is very important because 

staff have said trying to work out who 

to talk to when management has been 

stood down has been very frustrating. 

Jetstar has said they may need to 

Most importantly, we saved automatic 

progression! All existing employees 

will continue to progress through the 

classifications to GS4. This means 

most employees will get a pay rise 

during the life of the agreement. 

We were also able to ensure that 

new employees would not be paid 

less than existing employees. There 

will be a new classification structure 

for new employees that means they 

won’t be able to progress to 3B or 4, 

but they will not be paid lesser rates 

at levels up to GS2/3A. 

Updates and more details 

can be found at our website 

www.usu.org.au 

consider some extraordinary measures 

to meet some estimated staffing 

shortfalls for the December rosters. 

These measures could mean 

significant changes to how and where 

members would usually work, as well 

as who does the job. The USU/ASU 

has not agreed to any changes and 

will keep members updated. 

Please sign our petition to show 

Jetstar how much it means to you. 

www.surveymonkey.com/r/JetstarPetition 


MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM QANTAS 

Qantas to axe customer facing and lost baggage services in nasty Christmas surprise 

As borders re-open, travellers 

are being warned to expect delays 

and lost baggage problems with 

Qantas announcing they will sack key 

customer service workers in the holiday 

season. 

This is a bitter pill to swallow for workers 

who have been managing on little 

to no pay for months but have stuck 

by Qantas. 

Workers feel betrayed – they were 

asked to stand by the company in 

tough times and just as there’s a glimmer 

of hope with borders re-opening 

they’re being thrown out on the 

street. 

It’s a nasty Christmas gift from Qantas. 

The move would create a nightmare 

for passengers travelling for 

Christmas to see family. 

Qantas plans to abolish the sales desk 

and the service desk including for 

premium and frequent flyers, meaning 

everything will be self service and 

if you have a problem – you’re on 

your own. 

Travellers will be forced to do everything 

themselves online, even if there 

are cancellations or delays where 

previously people have been able to 

ask a person to help. 

The kicker is cutting lost baggage services 

– if your bag is missing there will 

be no one at the airport dedicated to 

help. 

If you’re at the airport and your bag is 

missing you will have to call a contact 

centre in Hobart. By the time your bag 

is found, it could be on the other side 

of the country – if they find it at all. 

This is a huge problem for all passengers 

but especially for those needing 

a little extra help such as infrequent 

travellers, older Australians and people 

with a disability. 

The union believes a trial of the proposal 

was abandoned in February 

because Qantas does not have the 

technology to replace these workers 

who play a very hands on role with 

passengers. 

We believe these are absolutely essential 

workers and without them, 

travel is going to be a very tricky experience 

for passengers. 

Qantas workers have been through 

enough this year without being confronted 

with these schemes from 

management to save money but reduce 

service. 

AVIATION WORKERS 

LET DOWN BY BUDGET 

The aviation sector has been hit hard by the COVID-19 

pandemic with thousands of jobs lost, tens of thousands 

of workers stood down and some even locked out of 

JobKeeper support due to dodgy government loopholes. 

We have been calling for an AviationKeeper package to 

support all aviation workers – so that when Australia is 

ready to fly again, our workers are too. 

However beyond January 2021, there was nothing in the 

Federal Budget for aviation workers to Keep Australia 

Flying. 

NOTHING in the 

Join our campaign! Find out more at: 

www.aviationkeeper.com 


RECOGNISING DELEGATE EXCELLENCE 

IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR 

Sinead Francis Coan has been 

the Union Delegate for Wine 

Selectors based in Newcastle 

since 2018. 

Where many Delegates have 

the advantage of being recognised 

in their workplace and have 

recognised delegates’ rights with 

their employer, Sinead works in an 

Organisation who does not recognise 

delegates’ rights to collectively 

organise non-union members in the 

workplace. This makes her job of organising 

and recruiting new members 

to better advance working conditions 

so much harder. 

Unfortunately, the Fair Work Act is 

also not clear on recognised rights 

for Union Delegates to speak to and 

recruit new members in work time. 

They can only do this in their lunch 

break or out of hours. 

At every turn, Sinead has been faced 

with opposition from her employer 

and has been subjected to at least 

three investigations by her employer 

around organising new members in 

her workplace. The final investigation 

proved that she was not to be disciplined 

but she was reminded of her 

obligations to her employer and that 

she could only speak to people about 

union matters in lunch breaks or out 

of work hours. 

Despite all of this, Sinead has mapped 

out her workplace and continues to 

meet with non-members outside of 

working hours in coffee shop chats, 

phone chats, Zoom and any other 

means that she can think of to reach 

out to her workmates to talk about 

the benefits of being in a union. 

She has successfully recruited workmates 

and tried to start to build up 

a power base on the job. This has its 

ups and downs as the nature of her 

work means that the structure of the 

workplace, built predominately on 

casual employees, can be itinerant 

and many people who join often do 

not stay with the organisation long 

but Sinead continues to pursue her 

quest as she believes in the power of 

being in the union. 

Sinead has also had some wins since 

she has become delegate. When she 

first took on the role of delegate, 

Sinead was concerned with the lack 

of consultation from Management. 

She took on the matter as a dispute 

with her Union Official, which saw 

her meet with Senior Management 

and she won the right for teams to be 

consulted weekly through team huddles 

by their Managers on workplace 

issues - in particular on policy changes 

that affected their work. Once again, 

something that most workplaces take 

for granted but for many workplaces 

in the Private Sector, this is a significant 

achievement. 

Sinead would love one day to see 

her workplace be able to successfully 

negotiate an Enterprise Agreement 

which recognises Delegates’ Rights 

and rights to consultation on workplace 

change. 

At every turn, Sinead has been faced with opposition from 

her employer and has been subjected to at least three 

investigations by her employer around organising new 

members in her workplace. 

Sinead is very passionate about the 

environment and sustainability and 

very active politically championing 

the rights for young workers and the 

environment in her community. She 

was very active in the Change the 

Rules Campaign in the last Federal 

Election and is a very active member 

on the NSW C & A Branch Committee 

of Management. 

Sinead is currently overcoming a serious 

illness and while she was in 

hospital, contacted her Organiser 

because she was worried that when 

she was admitted to hospital she 

could not let the union know that she 

couldn’t attend a Lunch and Learn 

Session that she was booked into. 

That’s dedication! 

Our union is very lucky to have 

such a wonderful delegate such 

as Sinead! 


“EISS Super are 

always sharing 

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Thao, NSW 

USU and EISS Super Member 

Join your industry super fund, 

visit eisuper.com.au/join 

Issued by Energy Industries Superannuation Scheme Pty Limited ABN 72 077 947 285, 

RSE Licensee L0001373 and AFS Licence 441877. 

50191_USU_JournalAd_250x185mm.indd 1 

United Summer 14/11/19 2020 12:08 • pm 17

CONGRATULATIONS OLGA! 

50 YEAR MEMBER! 

Do you remember what you were doing on the 10th August 

1970? Perhaps some of you were not even born! 

For one of our members it was her first day of work at Maitland 

City Council Library. 

Olga McTackett commenced work over 50 years ago at Maitland 

City Council Library and has always been a member of the 

United Services Union (the MEU when Olga first joined). 

Many of us cannot even imagine the changes that Olga has seen 

take place in her workplace since her first day at work. 

Olga’s commitment to the local community and the union is 

inspiring. 

In 2018, at a ceremony at Parliament House Olga was awarded 

the NSW Service Medallion in recognition of over 40 years excellent 

service to the community. 

It is truly an amazing contribution to local government, her local 

council and her community. 

At the New England Branch 

Committee of Management annual 

general meeting held in early 

November, Tony Dean and Chris 

Preston were presented with life 

membership of the USU by Northern 

Manager Stephen Hughes, pictured 

here with New England Branch 

President Scott Jackson and Executive 

member Bernado Lynch. 

Chris Preston first joined the MEU in 

1977 and was heavily involved as a delegate 

from 1987, becoming head delegate 

of Dumaresq Shire Council in 1990 

and was one of the original members 

of the New England Branch Committee 

of Management when it was formed 

in 1993. Chris went on to become the 

New England Branch Organiser in 2003 

and retired in 2019, but has remained 

actively involved with the USU since. 

We congratulate Olga on her lifetime commitment 

to Council and to her commitment to the United 

Services Union. 

We thank her and wish her well. 

USU Organiser Leith 

Barber congratulates 

Olga McTackett 

on 50 years USU 

membership. 

LIFE MEMBERS CONGRATULATED 

Tony Dean began working at Moree Plains Shire Council in 1987 and became 

a delegate in 1999. Tony was a very active delegate and was at the forefront 

for many trying issues in Moree. Tony was also on the New England Branch 

Committee of Management from 2003 to 2019. 

The USU also congratulates Greg Cavanagh from the Newcastle Branch who 

was also awarded Life Membership. 


USU TRAINING 

SIMPLY THE BEST! 

USU Delegates are at the forefront of our efforts to represent our members and keep them up to date 

with information and the USU takes very seriously our job of ensuring that we provide continuing 

development for our Delegates in this space. 

During the COVID pandemic, USU 

Educator Narelle Rich has been 

updating our Delegate Basics and 

USU@WORK training programs, including 

a review of existing resources 

as well as creating new resources, activities 

and the part the delegates love 

most - role plays. 

In addition to this, Narelle has been 

busy creating “Lunch and Learn” or 

LNL training sessions which are currently 

being rolled out. These LNL 

sessions are not meant in any way to 

detract from or replace our delegate 

training program. Delegate Basics 

and USU@WORK still require face to 

face education and interaction and it 

would be impossible to recreate this 

in the online world. They are a complimentary 

set of short courses which 

can be delivered at lunch time, during 

a WOC meeting or even after hours, to 

assist delegates in keeping up to date. 

We hope that 2021 will see a return to 

face to face Union Education. Narelle 

has prepared a course timetable for the 

first six months. Please have a look at 

www.usu.org.au/training2021 for 

more information. 

For newly elected delegates our 

Lunch and Learn timetable has provided 

invaluable skills for those who 

have not yet been able to attend 

Delegate Basics training as there were 

a number of courses which had to be 

postponed due to the current pandemic 

conditions. For experienced 

delegates, they are a terrific opportunity 

to brush up on skills they already 

Should you have 

any questions at 

all about either 

Delegate Training 

or fee for service 

training that can 

be delivered at 

your workplace, 

please email 

Narelle nrich@ 

usu.org.au or call 

her on 0419 128 

497 to discuss your 

training needs. 

have and serve as a revision of their 

skills and knowledge. 

It is hoped that these LNL sessions 

will continue to be helpful to our delegates 

beyond COVID, as a way to 

complement our Delegate Education 

Program. 

Check out our 

2021 training 

schedule at 

www.usu.org. 

au/training2021 

REMINDER: 

A reminder that Narelle also delivers 

training on a fee for service basis, including 

Consultative Committee (JCC) 

and Health and Safety Representative 

(HSR) and other bespoke training that 

employers may require. 

Delegate Basics (Stage 1): 2 days in the training room PLUS ongoing support 

USU@WORK (Stage 2): 2 days in the training room 

Followed by 8 x 1 hour formal mentoring sessions with your Organiser 

PLUS ongoing support 

LNL: 1 hour lunch time sessions which can also be delivered at your Branch 

Committee of Management Meetings (BCOM) or Workplace Organising 

Committee Meetings (WOC) 

LNL TOPICS SO FAR INCLUDE: 

CHECK-CI 

CHECK-CI 

CHECK-CI 

CHECK-CI 

CHECK-CI 

Introduction to Zoom 

Conferencing 

Building Union Power 

Recruitment Training 

Delegate Rights and 

Responsibilities 

Support Person / Union 

Delegate Representation 

CHECK-CI 

CHECK-CI 

CHECK-CI 

CHECK-CI 

CHECK-CI 

CHECK-CI 

CHECK-CI 

The Award 

Mapping 

Specific Award Clauses 

Grievance Handling 

Workplace Investigations 

Consultative Committee Basics 

New to Being a Delegate? 


$17.5 

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in lost or unclaimed super 

in Australia * 

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Issued by Energy Industries Superannuation Scheme Pty Limited ABN 72 077 947 285, RSE Licensee L0001373 and AFS Licence 441877. 50191 11/19 


2020 NEW GEN AWARD 

WINNERS ANNOUNCED! 

Samantha Street has been awarded the 

2020 USU New Gen Committee Apprentice 

/ Trainee of the Year. Samantha is a Trainee 

Biosecurity Officer from Forbes Shire Council. 

Samantha has been recognised 

not just for her outstanding application 

to her traineeship but also 

for being an outstanding young 

Union member. Information gathered 

by her nominators truly supports 

Samantha’s nomination and 

recognition: 

“Sam is an outstanding example of 

an achiever - she has grasped her 

role with flair; has been a committed 

member of the USU team here in 

Forbes and I believe a worthy nominee 

for Trainee of the Year 2020.” 

“It was a huge move for Sam to relocate 

from her home City of Newcastle 

to join our Council, but she straight 

away made herself known and assisted 

community groups, volunteering 

her services. Sam’s sunny personality 

also makes her a popular work 

colleague and she puts 100% into all 

that she does.” 

“Sam is respected by the farming 

community when dealing with them, 

and her fellow employees.” 

Are you in the workplace and 

aged between 16 to 35? Are you 

interested in connecting with your 

New Gen Committee to assist in 

promoting the collective interests 

of fellow young workers? Contact 

USU Organiser Luke Hutchinson 

0419 761 323 or lhutchinson@ 

usu.org.au to find out more today. 

Without positive influences of genuine mentors in the workplace, 

an Apprentice/Trainee award would not be possible. In 2020 we 

recognise USU New Gen Committee Mentor of the Year, Erin Martin, a 

Horticulturist, from Wollongong City Council. 

While undertaking this key role 

in Council, Erin has selflessly 

continued to mentor and develop 

many apprentices over the years at 

Wollongong. Information gathered 

by her nominators truly support Erin 

being a commendable recipient: 

“Erin constantly provides support 

and guidance to junior and new 

members of staff. She is always willing 

to help whether it be technical 

job support or organisational guidance. 

She is admired by her peers 

due to her wide knowledge base and 

eagerness to help others.” 

“She is extremely knowledgeable and 

is very forthcoming with answers to 

any questions or queries they may 

have concerning propagation techniques, 

general maintenance, administrative 

duties, or the general 

daily running of the nursery.” 

“As an apprentice and new person 

on the block Erin has made me and 

all the other trainees and apprentices 

feel very welcome and she will 

go above and beyond to give you 

advice on any tasks that you may be 

doing at the time.” 


STAY IN TOUCH! 

Covid-19 has seen all of us turning to new ways to stay in touch. Did you know that 

the USU runs a number of industry specific groups on Facebook that provide another 

way for our members to stay connected? 

These groups provide a place for us to 

get industry specific information to 

our members but also allow members to 

post questions or information they want to 

share. The groups are closed, so only USU 

members can see what is posted which 

makes them a safe place. 

WHAT MEMBERS SAY ABOUT 

OUR FACEBOOK GROUPS: 

Alex: “USU groups are a great way to meet, 

stay in touch and socialise with people 

who work in the same vocational areas.” 

Rhonda: “The USU Facebook groups 

are an efficient way to communicate 

information. Whether it is news or 

background information or just a laugh.” 

To join a group just search for the group in 

Facebook and ask to join. You will be asked 

three security questions and if you are a USU 

member you will be added to the group! 

THE GROUPS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE ARE: 

Admin and Clerical: 

www.facebook.com/groups/usu. 

administration.and.clerical 

Children’s Services: 

www.facebook.com/groups/USUChildren 

Community Services, Museums and Art Galleries: 

www.facebook.com/groups/USU.Community.Services 

Lifeguards and Pools: 

www.facebook.com/groups/USU.Lifeguards.Pools 

Librarians: 

www.facebook.com/groups/usu.libraries/ 

Professionals: 

www.facebook.com/groups/usuprofessionals 

Rangers, Parking Patrol and Law Enforcement: 

www.facebook.com/groups/USURangers 

Retired Members: 

www.facebook.com/groups/USURetiredMembers 

Waste: 

www.facebook.com/groups/USUWasteSector/ 

Women: 

www.facebook.com/groups/USUWomen 

Young Members (New Gen): 

www.facebook.com/usu.new.gen.committee/ 


USU WOMEN 

Meet a Committee Member! 

Kim Bogaz is a delegate at the Hills 

Shire Council and is a member of the USU 

Women’s Committee. 

We asked Kim some questions so we could 

get to know her better! 

WHY DID YOU BECOME 

A DELEGATE? 

I was approached by fellow members who asked me to be 

a delegate for them. To have a female delegate, the first 

for The Hills. A person they felt would be strong and yet 

compassionate, someone not afraid to take on the hard 

questions and challenges and stick by them through to 

the end. 

WHY DID YOU JOIN THE 

WOMEN’S COMMITTEE? 

My organiser asked me to join shortly after I became a 

delegate. If you ask whether I enjoy my time on the committee 

the answer is yes as the committee members have 

become great friends and we have achieved great things! 

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT 

THE WOMEN’S COMMITTEE? 

The discussions and think tanks within the committee and 

our guests. It’s all centred around how and where we can 

further our mission of raising awareness for issues facing 

and impacting women, not just in the work place but 

women all around Australia. I’s truly inspiring to watch the 

evolution of our discussions materialise into actions and 

our actions rewarded by meaningful change. This is the 

reason why we do what we do. 

WHAT ARE YOU EXCITED 

ABOUT THE COMMITTEE 

ACHIEVING IN THE FUTURE? 

The USU Women’s Committee has had, like everyone, a 

challenging 2020 dealing with a pandemic. While we may 

not have had face to face meetings we have still been active 

on social media keeping members informed and always 

encouraging every member, young and not so young, 

to always keep striving to break through that glass ceiling. 

This message is and will forever be a constant force 

within this committee and that is exciting to know that 

there will always be a place where women can turn to, 

stand shoulder to shoulder and raise their voices as one. 

If you would like to join the discussion you can find us at www.facebook.com/groups/USUWomen 


CONFERENCE IN TH 

On Thursday, 22 October 2020 the Union’s Conference Delegates met via Zoom for our 

Conference in Council Session. We had to do things differently but we were determined 

that nothing could stop us! 

Our Conference 

was opened by 

Mark Morey, 

Secretary of 

Unions NSW 

has been a difficult year, however it has not stopped our 

2020 Conference in Council Session. It certainly looked different as 

our photo gallery shows however the important aspects of Conference remained 

the same. The USU takes our commitment to Conference seriously 

and appreciated the support we received from Conference Delegates and 

guest speakers. 

In order to practice safe social distancing and to prevent any spread of Covid-19 

the decision was made to hold the Conference via electronic means with limited 

delegates present at Cootamundra. 

Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council generously provided a great location 

and support to assist us for this very important meeting. Their welcome 

and assistance ensured the smooth running of our Conference. 

Right: General Secretary Graeme Kelly OAM presenting the General Secretary’s 

report at Conference. 

“Being able to communicate with our Branches was more important than ever 

in the chaos that was 2020.” 


E TIME OF COVID 

IN ADDITION TO OUR USUAL 

BUSINESS, SPEAKERS INCLUDED: 

Shadow Minister for Local 

Government Greg Warren MP 

gave a video address (left) and 

we also had presentations from 

our sponsors, Local Government 

Super, EISS (below left) and 

Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers (below 

right). 

Conference Welcome from Cootamundra- 

Gundagai Regional Council Mayor, Clr Abb 

McAlister & President Glen McAtear 

Our New Gen – Apprentice/ 

Trainee and Mentor of the 

Year Awards were also announced 

(see page 21) and Life 

Membership and Certificates of 

Merit were endorsed. 

Conference 2020 was a great 

success! 

Welcome to Country from Peter Beath 

Linda Scott, President LGNSW gave an 

address at Conference 

As a thank you to the community of Cootamundra, the Union donated $500 to the 

Cootamundra Soup Kitchen which was presented to Renee Worboys by USU General 

Secretary Graeme Kelly OAM and USU President Glen McAtear. 

Check out our full conference gallery at www.usu.org.au/usu-conference-2020/ 


PEAK SEASON HOLIDAYS: SICK OF MISSING OUT? 

RIVERSIDE PEAK SEASON BALLOT FOR 2021/2022 IS OPEN! 

IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN! 

The summer break is approaching and 

affordable accommodation is impossible 

to find! You may have missed this 

summer break but don’t get caught 

out next year! 

Riverside Resort @ Port is owned by 

the USU and to ensure fair access for 

our members and their families during 

this popular time our Riverside Resort 

@ Port holds a ballot each year. 

Our ballot ensures that United Services 

Union members are given priority for 

accommodation during peak season. 

The Ballot for 2020/21 was held earlier 

this year and we have now officially 

opened the ballot for Summer 

2021/22 to make sure our members 

get a head start! Check it out at 

www.riversideresortatport.com.au/ 

ballot 

WHEN IS THE PEAK 

SEASON FOR 2021/22? 

The Ballot applies for the period 

Saturday 11 December 2021 to 

Saturday 29 January 2022. 

WHEN DOES THE BALLOT 

FOR 2021/22 CLOSE? 

This Ballot will close 31 May 2021 and 

the relevant members will be notified 

by 30 June 2021. 

DON’T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT! COME AND STAY! 

There’s nothing that makes us happier than hearing that 

our guests are having a great time at Riverside Resort! 

We were particularly touched to receive a handwritten 

letter from a guest in his 90s, and we just had to share 

some of his kind words. 

"I have travelled the world with my wife prior to her passing. 

We travelled through the USA using motels, caravan parks 

through LA, Las Vegas, San Francisco also through Europe, 

Sweden, Germany, Switzerland and the UK. Later with my 

daughter Leanne who was with me at your resort. We both 

travelled to Hawaii, Las Vegas, twice to Honolulu. We've done 

both islands of New Zealand and Tasmania using motels, hotel 

rooms and caravan parks. I tell you all of this because of 

all my travels, your accommodation in my opinion was better 

than any accommodation. If I come again to visit my sister in 

Nambucca, I will again stay with you at your resort." 

Best regards, George and Leanne. 

“Love this place! My two girls learnt to swim in the 

pool, 30 years ago. My granddaughter 13 years ago, 

now it’s time for my grandson. Come on Xmas!” 

- Janet Tierney 

“Loved it, kids loved it! Will be back again. It’s an affordable 

weekend away. It has everything we needed. Close 

to everything but still away from it all.” 

- Jeff Price 

“Best place in Port, great fishing and Grant and Michelle 

are the best park managers.” 

- Max Gibson 

“We’ve been bringing three generations of our family 

here for the better part of 23 years - my parents have 

since passed, and our kids are grown yet we’re still 

coming back ... Australia is God’s country, Port 

Macquarie is it’s hidden gem ... here’s a good place to 

experience a part of it.” 

- Catherine Weingott Jongeneel 


We can’t wait to catch up! 

GREAT BENEFIT FOR USU MEMBERS! 

Take a break 

Being a USU member 

means you and your 

family can stay at our 

beautiful resort at Port 

Macquarie for special 

rates - all year round. 

Do yourself a favour and 

book your stay today! 

USU Riverside Resort @ Port 

USU members can enjoy great holidays at the Union’s own Riverside Resort, located in beautiful Port 

Macquarie on the Hastings River. The resort consists of a Motel and a Caravan Park, so no matter what 

type of holiday you are after your needs are covered. You can contact the motel or caravan park by calling 

Riverside Resort @ Port on 02 6584 9155 or check the website at www.riversideresortatport.com.au. You 

can also call the Union’s Head Office on 1300 136 604 for more information. 

Or holiday in Jervis Bay! 

SPECIAL RATES 

FOR USU MEMBERS 

Save up to $245 

per week! Check 

out more at www. 

riversideresortatport. 

com.au. 

United Services Union members also have the option of heading south to Jervis Bay at the Rail Tram and Bus 

Union Holiday Park. USU members can stay at discounted member rates.* Located in the Booderee National 

Park, the RTBU Holiday Park at Jervis Bay, is just a 3 hour drive south from Sydney, but a world away ... 

Bookings can be made by telephoning the RTBU Office on (02) 9264 2511. 

* conditions apply 

Check out our new 

renovations @ Riverside! 

Stay on the river 

4 star accommodation 

Fantastic facilities 

www.riversideresortatport.com.au | (02) 6584 9155 | riversideresort@usu.org.au 


USU SHOP OPEN 

NOW IT'S EVEN EASIER TO 

Are you looking for the perfect gift for a proud USU member or supporter? 

Or just want some new USU gear for yourself?! 

Look no further than the USU online store! 

We’re excited to launch the official USU Web Store, offering our members and supporters clothing, accessories, and 

gear to show off their USU pride. 

Check out our new store today and shop for our selection of shirts, hoodies, hats, caps, office accessories, and more! 

All orders come with FREE postage. 

Check out the store at www.usu.org.au/shop 

USU MEMBER PAUL REID TALKS ABOUT HIS USU SHOP EXPERIENCE: 

“Having been notified about the USU 

Online Shop by email I went to the 

website to investigate. 

As the USU had changed its logo some 

time ago I wanted to see what products 

were being sold in their shop. 

I decided on the navy blue USU logo 

t-shirt and navy blue baseball cap. Caret-Sq 

The website was easy to use just clicking 

on the clothing items I had chosen, 

then adding my name, mailing address, 

and credit card details, all of which 

took less than 5 minutes. 

I was pleased with the ease of use of the website and how quickly my 

new logo clothing items arrived, which I look forward to wearing at a 

USU Rally and at the May Day march.” 

USU VICE PRESIDENT 

SHARON SEWELL 

ORDERED HER GEAR 

FROM BATHURST! 

“My new USU t-shirts arrived 

today. Quick delivery. 

These will be worn often.” 

IT'S EASY TO USE 

OUR SHOP! 

1. Head over to 

www.usu.org.au/shop 

2. Choose the gear that 

you would like to buy - 

make sure you get the 

right size and colour! 

3. Why not grab a pen 

at a reduced price 

while you are there? 

4. Complete the payment 

- either direct debit 

or credit card. 

5. Include your postal 

address. 

6. Bingo! You will receive 

notification that your 

goods are on the way. 


FOR BUSINESS! 

WEAR YOUR UNION PRIDE! 

Check out the great gear you can buy! 

TEAL T-SHIRT NAVY T-SHIRT NOTEBOOK GREY HOODIE 

PHONE MOUNT USU PEN KEYRING ID TAG 

GREY CAP NAVY CAP COOLER NAVY BEANIE 

Check out the store at www.usu.org.au/shop 


HELPING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY 

USU members from the Walgett Shire have used their picnic day funds in a manner 

that benefits the wider community of the Walgett Shire. 

USU Delegate 

David Callander and 

local Butcher Geoff 

Williams, who was 

excited about the 

concept of 

giving back. 

Over the past number of years, 

employees of Walgett Shire 

Council have been putting “a little 

back” into the community which has 

been struggling. A six year drought 

has seen a lot of hardship for the local 

retailers. With the local river drying 

up, no crops have been through 

the silos, breeding stock was starting 

to be sold off, and then the only 

grocery store in town, the local IGA, 

burnt down for the second time in six 

years. Times were getting tough. 

Things were started to look up following 

some good rains in the beginning 

of the year. There was a downside 

though, it delayed the commencement 

of the town’s weir raising project 

which is designed to make the 

town drought proof. The local economy 

was continuing to suffer slowly. 

With Covid restricting Picnic Day activities, 

and the plight of the community 

of major concern, USU members 

at Walgett Shire Council decided to 

try and do something to help. Instead 

of spending the members' picnic 

funds it was decided to give the money 

back to the members in the form 

of vouchers and let them spend it 

themselves. There were conditions 

attached, the main one being that the 

vouchers could only be spent locally 

to support the town, and kick start 

the economy. 

Retailers from the three main towns 

of the Shire, Walgett, Lightning Ridge 

and Collarenebri, were contacted and 

Kate Anderson, USU 

Picnic Committee 

member and main 

driving force behind 

the concept. 

asked if they would be prepared to honour 

vouchers for goods or services. A 

resounding yes was the answer as the 

benefits to the town were obvious. 

Books of vouchers were developed 

and distributed to the members, 

and after explaining to all, where 

the vouchers could be utilised, there 

were smiles all around. Big thanks to 

Kate Anderson and Julie McKeown 

for all their hard work and support. 


“UNION PICNIC DAY” CELEBRATED AT 

LEAST ONCE ON THE MID NORTH COAST! 

2020 has been one of those years no one will forget, especially for the Mid North Coast 

region. This area went from fires in late 2019 to flooding in the early parts of 2020 then 

followed by COVID and the current restrictions that we all are under. 

This has led to the majority of 

Union Picnic Day events on the 

Mid North Coast being cancelled due 

to Covid restrictions limiting large 

numbers and facilities not being able 

to cater for member numbers. 

Nearly all the Councils on the Mid 

North Coast still celebrated the day 

with smaller groups of members 

organising events capable of being 

allowed at numerous different locations 

and venues. 

REMEMBERING A GOOD MATE 

Thankfully for Nambucca Valley 

Council members, early bookings at 

the Macksville Golf course meant the 

members were able to enjoy the day 

and again remember a good mate, 

worker and loyal Union member by 

playing for the David “Big Dog” Fuller 

Memorial Shield. 

The third Memorial Union Picnic Day 

was held on Melbourne Cup Day with 

a two person Ambrose golf day, the 

event that the Shield was awarded 

for. The winners of the David “Big 

Dog” Fuller Memorial Shield USU 

Picnic Golf Day were Jason Jarmain 

and Craig Mills. The Shield was 

proudly presented by Beryl Fortiscure 

- “Big Dog’s” cousin. The presentation 

was held shortly after the scorecards 

had been finalised, and some 

refreshments were served to cool off 

the members. The day saw almost 

20 members play for the Shield and 

some 30 members turn up and celebrate 

the day, a good turnout considering 

the Covid 19 restrictions. 

The winners of the 

David “Big Dog” Fuller 

Memorial Shield USU 

Picnic Golf Day were 

Jason Jarmain and 

Craig Mills. 


DO YOU NEED 

EXPERT LEGAL ADVICE? 

Carroll & O’Dea have a team of experts ready to assist with your legal needs. 

When it matters contact Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers. 

We are committed to support USU members throughout NSW. 

Whether we assist you with a workplace dispute, property transaction, commercial advice, 

or a compensation claim, we’ll complete your work to the highest standard. 

Michael Barnes 

Partner 

Scott Dougall 

Partner 

Peter Lleonart 

Partner 

1800 059 278 

When it matters 

enquiry@codea.com.au 

www.codea.com.au 

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation 

Level 18, 111 Elizabeth Street, Sydney New South Wales 2000 


WORKERS COMPENSATION CLAIMS 

PRIVACY CONCERNS 

Michael Barnes from Carroll and O’Dea Lawyers gives some important advice about Workers Compensation claims and your privacy. 

Liability is accepted in the vast majority 

of NSW workers compensation claims. 

However simply because liability has been 

accepted does not mean that insurers, including 

StateCover may not undertake observations 

of your activities and/or undertake 

social media investigations. 

These social media investigations seek to find 

all references to you on any social media platforms 

such as Facebook. These reports will 

download images, comments and posts you 

have uploaded as well as any images, comments 

and posts you have been tagged in from 

Facebook or similar platforms. 

The purpose behind these observing activities 

and seeing what you’re saying on social media 

is all about trying to find a way if liability was 

accepted, to decline liability. 

Alternatively, if liability is in dispute to strengthen 

the insurer’s argument as to why either you 

have no injury or you have no incapacity for 

work. 

Colloquially it’s said in NSW if you have a 

personal injury claim you can: 

“kiss your privacy goodbye”. 

If you believe you have been followed or observations 

are being undertaken of your activities, 

then you can simply contact the police. You can 

identify yourself, let them know that you had a 

personal injury claim and invite them to investigate 

the “suspicious” vehicle which has been 

parked outside your house or parked in the 

street for let’s say the last 18 hours. It is “suspicious” 

because the windows are darkly tinted 

and it has not moved. 

You often will only find out about these observations 

and the other investigations when the 

documentation is served upon you as part of the 

dispute. There is little that can be done to have 

this material excluded from any proceedings 

and what weight or relevance is to be put on 

such materials can be strongly contested. 

In contested proceedings some insurers, including 

StateCover will go to the stage of issuing 

subpoenas or Notice to Produce for your 

passport. 

The insurer is interested in knowing whether 

you have travelled overseas. They want to develop 

an argument that if you are well enough 

to travel then you cannot be as incapacitated as 

you make out. Or if you are well enough to travel 

that undermines a diagnosis such as depression. 

If you travel, you can work. 

Some insurers and here we are thinking of 

StateCover will go so far as to issue Directions 

that you need to produce all photographs of 

yourself including with other persons if you 

have gone on holiday. Again, it’s about seeking 

to undermine your credibility. 

The insurer is seeking to run the argument that 

a picture is worth a thousand words. Conversely 

we work with our client to put the picture or images 

the insurer is relying upon in the proper 

context. 

For instance on Facebook, there may be an image 

of a worker who appears to be happy and 

contented with a group of people and smiling. 

The insurer may think they have something as 

the person is claiming they are depressed and 

are not socialising very much. However, on clarification 

it may well be the images are 2 or 3 years 

old and posted by a friend or family member. 

The insurer may get “excited” about a video 

recording of an injured worker observed by 

an investigator to be “walking freely down the 

street”. On clarifying it may well be the worker 

is actually being encouraged by his GP, specialist 

and physio to try and stay as active as possible 

and build up a fitness regime after surgery. 

Merely because you can walk freely down the 

street does not mean you can work as a concrete 

labourer. Who is to say what the investigator 

might regard as being “walking freely” 

and the reality may well be that the worker is 

pushing themselves and following medical advice. 

What they are trying to do is recover and 

what the insurer is trying to do is undermine 

their credibility. 

It is challenging for injured workers with psychological 

conditions to even make the claim 

because of the stigma associated with mental 

illness. Often the treating psychologist or psychiatrist 

will say to the person with depression 

or anxiety, “you’ve got to try and get out of the 

house, you’ve got to stay engaged in the community”. 

They will give the same advice to family 

members supporting the injured worker. 

The insurer conducts observations of the worker 

and sees they are out of the home. The insurer 

will seek to say well this is our “gotcha 

moment”. Again in context these matters need 

to be looked at carefully and analysed as to 

what is actually happening. 

Some workers are particularly offended when 

they are being followed that the investigator is 

also taking pictures of family members including 

their children. We appreciate that sensitivity 

however, the insurer will argue it is not intentionally 

taking images of the children. Rather, 

images of your children are taken incidental 

to the primary purposes of observing your 

activities. 

Quite often these observations and social media 

searches come to nothing however, they 

can cause angst and distress and obviously you 

need to work through the issues with your legal 

adviser to put the circumstances into context. 

Against a background where you have a workers 

compensation claim it is prudent in your 

own interest to limit the settings on any social 

media platform. You should severely limit what 

you post and request family members not to 

post anything about you. 

There is nothing dishonest about this process, 

it’s simply a case of limiting the opportunity 

for the insurer to seek to misinterpret the circumstances 

and undermine your credibility. 

Remember when the insurer is serving the 

documents on you, it is part of asserting you 

are either deliberately exaggerating the circumstances 

and/or you have misrepresented the 

situation to your medical advisers. 

If you have a workers compensation claim, you 

should be taking early legal advice. Even if the 

insurer has accepted liability, it is very sensible 

to take early legal advice. Remember what you 

are doing on a particular day could be the subject 

of misinterpretation. A father standing on 

the edge of a sporting field while his children 

are playing should in the ordinary course be the 

subject to favourable comment of a close and 

caring family. The insurer if it’s a back case, will 

say well how could he stand on the sideline for 

45 minutes. The insurer, if it is a psychological 

injury case, will say he looks pretty happy and 

we’ve seen him smile and talk to other people on 

the sideline, how can he be depressed. So it is 

not a case of not doing to these activities, it is a 

case of engaging in activities which are consistent 

with the medical advice you are receiving. 

I strongly recommend you speak to the USU 

for an early referral to speak to our Scott 

Dougall, Peter Lleonart or myself, Michael 

Barnes to get a better understanding of your 

personal injury, rights and obligations. 

Michael Barnes, Partner • Email: mbarnes@codea.com.au • Phone: (02) 8226 7356 • Location: Sydney 


ENDEAVOUR ENERGY MEMBERS HAVE A SAY 

In early November, Endeavour Energy members completed their Enterprise Agreement 

survey to inform the union about what conditions are important to them, what they’d 

like to see in their new EA and any general items they’d like raised. This sets our goals 

for ongoing negotiations. 

41% of respondents felt 3 years 

is a reasonable length for their EA, 

while 36% felt 2 years is and 23% 

felt 4 years is. 

92% of respondents felt that job 

security is important to them while 

8% felt like they already have job 

security. 

100% of respondents agreed 

that maintaining the current terms 

and conditions is important to 

them. 

51% of respondents felt 

that a flat, universal increase 

is appropriate while 49% of 

respondents felt a mixture of a 

universal increase & performance 

based. No one thought only a 

performance based increase is 

appropriate. 

51% of respondents felt that a 

2-3% pay increase is reasonable, 

while 31% of respondents felt 3-4% 

is more reasonable. The remaining 

respondents wanted different 

increases. 

70% of respondents felt the best 

way to work is a combination of 

being at home or in the office, 7% 

of respondents only wanted to work 

at home, 7% of respondents only 

wanted to work in the office. The 

remainder said it didn’t apply to 

them or they didn’t care. 

The USU and the Endeavour Energy negotiating team thank members for their feedback. The USU recognises 

the hard work of our negotiating team: Dave Johnson (Hoxton Park), Gary Dowers (Penrith), Stuart Kirk 

(Glendenning), Tracey Turner (Huntingwood) and Sara Baxter (Huntingwood) 

CONSULTATION DISPUTE! 

Recently the combined unions commenced consultation with Ausgrid on their proposals 

to re-structure (yet again) its workforce. 

Despite requests from the USU, which were supported by 

the ETU & Professionals Australia, for Ausgrid not to monopolise 

the union’s time resources so as to enable us to represent 

our members effectively, Ausgrid did just the opposite 

by sending out meeting requests for EVERY SINGLE DAY of 

the weeks beginning November 16 and 23, scheduling up to 

4 meetings on many days. 

On 17 November we were advised that the consultation process 

has been placed in dispute - a dispute we support and 

are a party to. 

As we head to print the issues of dispute include but are not 

limited to the issues listed right. 

Members can be kept up to date on this dispute at 

our website www.usu.org.au or via our Energy Group 

Facebook page at: 

www.facebook.com/groups/NSWEnergyatUSU 


MUSWELLBROOK SAYS NO 

TO WORKPLACE BULLYING 

The USU congratulates Muswellbrook Shire Council on being the first to sign the 

updated joint statement with the USU on workplace bullying. 

The recently negotiated 2020 NSW 

Local Government (State) Award 

includes a new Workplace Bullying 

clause 39. 

We included the wording from the 

NSW Local Government Model Code 

of Conduct in the Award, which 

now provides another option of referring 

complaints of bullying and 

harassment to the NSW Industrial 

Commission, instead of solely relying 

on making a Code of Conduct 

complaint 

USU Manager North Stephen Hughes 

is pleased to state that Muswellbrook 

Shire Council have been the first 

Council to sign the joint statement 

at a Covid safe meeting held at the 

Muswellbrook Shire Council Works 

Depot. 

Staff were well spaced safely and the 

meeting was streamed live through 

Council’s intranet to the other Council 

staff to allow them to also participate. 

This took place on Wednesday October 

28th and is a great moment. 

According to Stephen Hughes this 

came about after learning of some 

alleged issues at Council at a worker 

peer level where discussions were 

held between Council’s General 

Manager Fiona Plesman, Council’s HR 

Officer Michelle Cleary and the USU 

Manager North Stephen Hughes and 

USU Northern Industrial Officer Noel 

Martin. 

In this meeting the USU proposed the 

signing of the joint statement with 

both the Council General Manager 

and the USU Manager North to 

stand together in unison in addressing 

Council’s workforce regarding our 

equal opposition to bullying in the 

workplace and to encourage staff to 

come forward and report any alleged 

bullying if and when it occurs. 

On watching the faces of those Council 

staff in attendance and in speaking to 

some of them after the meeting, it 

A POSITIVE STEP FOR 

WORKERS: At a Covid safe 

depot meeting USU Manager 

Stephen Hughes and General 

Manager Fiona Plesman joined 

together to sign the Code. 

was obvious that the actions of the 

USU and the General Manager were 

well received and appreciated. 

Council also timed the meeting to 

occur over the lunch period and provided 

pizza and other food for those 

in attendance. 

“I am optimistic that the actions of 

the USU and Council's GM and HR 

will make the workplace a more comfortable 

one for the workforce at 

Council,” said Stephen Hughes. 


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DID YOU KNOW YOU HAVE 

A RIGHT TO PERMANENCY? 

If you work in the private sector and you have been a 

casual for more than 6 - 12 months, you now have extra 

rights and entitlements that you might not know about. 

Casual employees of national system employers (like 

small businesses and corporations) who have been employed 

continuously in regular and systematic work can 

now apply to convert to permanent employment. Since 1 

October 2018 this has been a new opportunity under the 

Fair Work Act. 

The United Services Union can guide and help members 

to seek permanency. 

It is often wrongly thought that if you are a casual there is 

little benefit to Union membership. Actually being a member 

can help a great deal in getting the advice and support 

you need to seek conversion to more secure and stable 

employment. 

“But I like my casual loading – 

why become permanent?” 

Permanent employment has many great benefits. 

Swapping your old casual loading for a safer long term job 

gives you at least 4 weeks paid annual leave, access to paid 

long service leave, sick leave when you really need it and 

above all job security. Many casuals go without holidays 

and even work sick because they never know what the 

next day will bring. It can come with the fear that if you 

are not there when wanted, you might not get called back 

again. Casual employment does attract a modest loading, 

but the uncertainty that comes with it can be very 

stressful. Permanent employment lets you plan your life 

and finances, with easier loan applications, better work 

life balance, and not having to worry that reasonable time 

off could cost you a job. 

And redundancy protections for permanent employees 

both reduce the ease of employers terminating your service, 

and give you some safeguards in case of job losses 

occurring – protections that casuals miss out on. 

Casual employment was only supposed to be for short 

term, temporary work but in Australia today the majority 

of new jobs have become casual. It’s not right to be kept 

in perpetual limbo, always on call but not getting your loyalty 

rewarded. 

Your union can 

help you take 

charge of your 

own future 

and apply for 

conversion. 

Also, becoming permanent helps you and your fellow 

workers, because with a more secure job you have more 

freedom to stand up for what’s right, like fair treatment, 

safe working conditions and involvement in your Union… 

without being quietly let go, because you get protection 

from unfair dismissal – safer jobs make stronger workers. 

If you are a casual who has been doing the same job on a 

regular and systematic basis for more than 6 - 12 months 

you have the right to apply for permanency and as long as 

the business is sound (not restructuring, losing contracts, 

closing down, going bankrupt or otherwise shedding staff) 

you have a very good chance of getting it. 

The following awards affecting USU members include: 

• Airport Employees Award 

• Alpine Resorts Award 

• Banking, Finance and Insurance Award 

• Business Equipment Award 

• Clerks - Private Sector Award 

• Contract Call Centres Award 2020 

• Educational Services (Post-Secondary Education) 

Award 2020 

• Educational Services (Schools) General Staff Award 2020 

• Electrical Power Industry Award 2020 

• Fitness Industry Award 2010 

• Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020 

• Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020 

• Legal Services Award 2020 

• Local Government Industry Award 2020 

• Real Estate Industry Award 2020 

• Telecommunications Services Award 2010 

• Water Industry Award 2020 

FIND OUT MORE HERE: 

www.australianunions.org.au/casual_workers_ 

factsheet#conversion 


FACING IMPROPER CON 

CALL YOUR UNION 

USU Manager North Stephen Hughes is concerned over what seems to be an increase 

in members facing allegations of improper conduct including alleged theft, fraud and 

bullying. He has some important advice for members: 

don’t know if some people thought 

I that during the Covid-19 pandemic 

they were more likely to escape detection 

however there has been a spike in 

allegations of improper conduct. 

Both USU Industrial Officer Noel 

Martin and I have become personally 

involved in dealing with some of these 

allegations and on most occasions the 

employer has had substantial evidence 

to support their allegations but at 

times only were prepared to reveal all 

of their evidence to myself and/or Noel 

as they were concerned that witnesses 

may have faced threats and intimidation 

if their names had been made 

available to the alleged perpetrators. 

While in an ideal world we would 

hope that enough trust would exist 

to provide us up front with all of the 

evidence without asking, there have 

been some witnesses or complainants 

who possessed legitimate fear 

and concern if their identity was revealed 

publicly. 

The disappointing thing is the number 

of those who face allegations 

who vehemently deny that they did 

anything wrong or who accept what 

is alleged but who believe it is OK because 

others do it. 

It is never acceptable to steal, to 

commit fraud or to bully and harass 

others. 

SEEK REPRESENTATION 

AS SOON AS POSSIBLE 

The sooner a member who faces allegations 

seeks representation from the 

USU and is fully honest the better we 

can advise and represent them. 

We can’t always keep someone in 

their current job or with the current 

employer but we can get them the 

best outcome possible if they are honest 

from the start and accept responsibility 

for their actions. 

It is never acceptable 

to steal, to commit 

fraud or to bully and 

harass others. 

Sometimes this means a financial settlement 

and a resignation with a no 

disparagement agreement to protect 

the person from suffering disadvantage 

regarding future employment. 

Sometimes it may be a suspension 

and demotion, either permanent or 

temporary and other times it is a final 

warning or lower level disciplinary. 

The attitude and honesty of the person 

facing allegations during interviews 

and the investigation can either 

be to the person’s benefit regarding 

the eventual outcome or where a bad 

attitude, lack of cooperation and lies 

occur despite the evidence, there is 

generally very little that be done to 

help the person. In such cases we reserve 

the right to walk away and cease 

representation if they don’t take our 

advice. 

An employer will only generally feel 

comfortable in retaining an employee 

where the employee is sincere, shows 

genuine remorse and apologises. 

Without acceptance of bad behaviour 

why would anyone believe the employee 

would change their ways? 

MODEL CODE OF CONDUCT 

FOR NSW COUNCILS 

During the recent 2020 Local 

Government Award negotiations the 

USU fought strongly to include the 

section of the Model Code of Conduct 

for NSW Councils regarding Bullying 

to be included in the Award. 

We achieved this and as the Award received 

a yes vote of 98.39 %, it is clear 

that our members overwhelmingly 

support the USU’s strong stand on opposing 

Bullying in the workplace. 

It must also be remembered that while 

bullying complaints mainly come regarding 

alleged bullying by those in 

higher positions, that bullying can occur 

from below and quite often from 

peers. 

We are opposed to bullying no matter 

where it comes from. 


DUCT ALLEGATIONS? 

The results are often the same. 

Bullying quite often results in or exacerbates 

mental health problems. 

SEXUAL HARASSMENT 

IS NEVER OK 

The matter regarding sexual harassment 

is also of deep concern. 

As more and more traditionally male 

based workplaces have females being 

employed in them, at times there 

is an initial resistance by some to 

change some of those behaviours that 

may have existed for decades which 

today are considered unacceptable. 

Quite often some of the longer term 

staff may feel resentment that they 

need to change some behaviour and 

instead think that the new employee 

instead should adapt and accept their 

behaviour. 

This is not the case. This situation can 

also arise when LGBTQ people are 

employed or come out publicly in the 

workplace. 

Laws are there to protect people 

and must be obeyed. It should 

not be passed off as leftie political 

correctness. 

I am far from this and in my 36 years in 

Local Government following my three 

years in the Australian Regular Army 

as an Infantry Soldier, I have had to 

change my beliefs and behaviour significantly 

over the years. 

If I look back with a view of anti-political 

correctness I would scoff at some 

of the changes I have seen, but when 

I look at it from a considered point of 

view I have to admit that the workplaces 

I had worked in decades ago 

would have been terrible for some 

compared to today. 

Change is constant and gradual as 

society changes its views, generally 

laws and regulations follow. This is 

what happened with the mandatory 

requirement to wear seatbelts, to 

place small children in appropriate 

restraints in vehicles, to introduce alcohol 

testing and later on drug testing 

for drivers. To ban smoking in vehicles 

at work and now banning the use of 

mobile phones while driving, to create 

OH&S committees and require the 

wearing of safety equipment at work. 

A good Union Official or 

Delegate will help more of 

their members by being 

fair and consistent in their 

dealings with employers. 

Anyone over 50 to 60 years of age 

will remember the days of no seat 

belts, of no alcohol testing of drivers, 

of people riding unrestrained in the 

back of work utes or trucks, of drinking 

alcohol in meal breaks or while 

travelling back to their depot, office 

or home at the end of the day after 

pulling into a bottle shop for a few 

cans or a long neck of beer, of working 

without safety equipment, of 

pornography in the workplace or 

of hazing new young employees in 

so-called fun. 

The changes that addressed these issues 

are generally accepted by most 

workers today as the norm, especially 

by younger workers who have never 

known anything different. No doubt 

there are some of those older workers 

who reminisce about what they still 

believe to be the so called good old 

days at work, which in hind sight were 

not the good old days for everyone. 

Yes we are there to represent our 

members, but we must be honest and 

direct with them. If there is a legitimate 

reason for poor behaviour that 

was not their normal behaviour, we 

need to ask if there is something going 

on in their life either at work or home 

that may have caused or contributed 

to any alleged poor behaviour. Often 

this can be the case for a worker who 

has been a good worker who has acted 

out of character. The sooner we 

can identify any legitimate issue/s that 

may have led to or exacerbated poor 

behaviour the better. In some cases 

we can head off an issue by communicating 

with the employer early on in a 

confidential manner and have it dealt 

with without leading to formal disciplinary 

action or termination, but in 

others it may result in someone leaving 

their job by resignation or a confidential 

deed rather than termination. 

This can be the best outcome for a person’s 

future employment prospects. 

A good Union Official or Delegate will 

help more of their members in the 

end by being fair and consistent in 

their dealings with employers than in 

seeking to back a member regardless 

of their behaviour. 

A good Human Resources Officer 

should also be prepared to tell their 

employer when they are wrong and 

to advise them how to correctly deal 

with matters in a fair and consistent 

manner too. 

We have an ageing workforce and we 

need to understand that the current 

generation can at times feel almost 

alien to many of us in their beliefs and 

language, but they will rely heavily on us 

to impart our many years of experience 

and hopefully to share and absorb some 

of our wisdom which can’t be learnt in 

classrooms, books or social media. 


USU CONTRIBUTIONS 

2021 

INCOME THRESHOLDS 

Arrow-Do 

2021 - METROPOLITAN COUNCIL/ AUSGRID/ PRIVATE SECTOR PICNIC TICKET RATES 

Annual Quarter Month Fortnight Week 

A Full (earning more than $695.85pw) 588.64 147.16 49.05 22.64 11.32 

B 75% Rate (earning $695.85pw or less) 446.16 111.54 37.18 17.16 8.58 

C 50% Rate (earning $463.90pw or less) 303.68 75.92 25.31 11.68 5.84 

D 25% Rate (earning $231.95pw or less) 161.20 40.30 13.43 6.20 3.10 

2021 - REGIONAL & ENERGY NON PICNIC TICKET RATES 


E Full (earning more than $695.85pw) 569.40 142.35 47.45 21.90 10.95 

F 75% Rate (earning $695.85pw or less) 427.44 106.86 35.62 16.44 8.22 

G 50% Rate (earning $463.90pw or less) 284.96 71.24 23.75 10.96 5.48 

H 25% Rate (earning $231.95pw or less) 142.48 35.62 11.87 5.48 2.74 

2021 - AIRLINES MEMBERS INC PICNIC TICKET ($8.80pa levy applies) 


I Full (earning more than $695.85pw) 597.44 149.36 49.79 22.98 11.49 

J 75% Rate (earning $695.85pw or less) 454.96 113.74 37.91 17.50 8.75 

K 50% Rate (earning $463.90pw or less) 312.48 78.12 26.04 12.02 6.01 

L TAB & Agencies - Casuals Per Hour: 0.34 All rates include GST. 

M TAB & Agencies - Junior Casuals Per Hour: 0.23 

For more information contact 

the USU on 1300 136 604. 

The following regional councils have different picnic levies - Ballina Council, Byron Council, Central Coast Council, Coffs 

Harbour Council, Mid Coast Council, Narrabri Council, North West Councils, Warren Council, Wollongong City Council. 

Please refer to the USU website for further fee information (including varying picnic fee levies). 

PAYMENT OPTIONS: 

Direct Debit: 

Payroll Deduction: 

Direct Payment: 

Union Contributions are deducted Weekly, Fortnightly, Bi-Fortnightly, Monthly or Quarterly 

from the member’s credit card or bank, building society or credit union account. 

Members’ contributions are deducted from their pay and forwarded to Union office (where 

the employer provides this facility) 

Members receive an invoice and may pay by mailing a cheque, providing a credit card 

number, via Bpay or by cash over the counter. 



Great deals 

for members at 

The Good Guys 

As a valued Union Shopper member 

you can now get exclusive access to a 

new online shopping site with The Good 

Guys Commercial. 

You will be able to see ‘live’ discounted 

pricing on the entire The Good Guys 

range – that’s great deals on 

over 4,000 products! 

And you will be able to make your 

purchases online – saving you 

time and money. 

To register for online access to The Good Guys Commercial 

website,visit www.unionshopper.com.au/the-good-guys/ 

or phone 1300 368 117 

1300 368 117 

unionshopper.com.au 


Colour me in to win! 

GREAT 

PRIZES TO 

BE WON! 

Secret code! 

Use this secret code breaker to find 

this secret message just for you 

Winners will be awarded in the following categories: 

Ages 8-12 years and Ages up to 7. 

Send your entry to: USU Kids, Level 7, 321 Pitt St, Sydney 

for your chance to win some great prizes. Winners will be 

published in the next edition of United. 

Name:_____________________________________ 

Age: _ _____________________________________ 

Address: ___________________________________ 

Find these summer words! 

S 

U 

N 

B 

L 

O 

C 

K 

P 

U 

S 

H 

E 

L 

L 

A 

U 

I 

N 

B 

T 

N 

W 

N 

M 

W 

N 

W 

A 

T 

E 

R 

B 

B 

A 

E 

A 

E 

W 

U 

R 

O 

E 

V 

A 

N 

I 

C 

E 

D 

T 

A 

E 

P 

P 

P 

L 

A 

Y 

S 

C 

S 

P 

U 

L 

S 

A 

N 

D 

H 

C 

L 

A 

H 

O 

T 

N 

F 

U 

N 

E 

__________________________________________ 

Sun 

Sunblock 

Waves 

Hot 

Fun 

Beach 

Pineapple 

Water 

Winners from our Winter 2020 Kids Corner: 

Gabby (7), Penny (7), Max (10) and Ritaz (10) 

Play 

Sand 

Shell 

Umbrella 


44 • United Summer 2020 

AUSTRALIAN MUNICIPAL, ADMINISTRATIVE, CLERICAL AND SERVICES UNION 

NSW LOCAL GOVERNMENT, CLERICAL, ADMINISTRATIVE, ENERGY, AIRLINES & UTILITIES BRANCH 

SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2020


46 • United Summer 2020 

NEW SOUTH WALES LOCAL GOVERNMENT, CLERICAL, ADMINISTRATIVE, 

ENERGY, AIRLINES & UTILITIES UNION 

SUMMARY OF THE FINANCIAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2019


Don’t miss out 

USU PICNIC DAY FUN 

Can't wait 

to Catch up! 

All financial metro members of 

the USU are entitled to Union 

Picnic Day off work with pay*. 

On top of that, members and 

their families can attend Taronga 

Park Zoo on the day for FREE! 

Been thinking of joining the 

USU? Not only do you receive 

protection at work, journey 

insurance, professional 

representation and other 

discounts, you can enjoy annual 

Union Picnic Day. Membership is 

also tax deductible! 

FIND OUT MORE: 

www.usu.org.au/picnic2021 

Join online at 

www.usu.org.au/join 

or talk to your delegate! 

12 March 

2021 at 

Taronga 

Zoo! 

DON’T MISS OUT! MAKE SURE YOUR DETAILS ARE UP TO DATE - 

VISIT WWW.USU.ORG.AU/MEMBERS-ONLY 

* In January 2021 USU financial members 

who pay “Picnic Day Rates” will be sent 

a Picnic Day ticket. Whether you are 

entitled to a paid day off depends on your 

Award or Agreement. If in doubt talk to 

your USU Organiser or contact the union 

on 1300 136 604. 

Member of the USU? 

Enjoy your Picnic Day off on 

12 March 2021 at Taronga Zoo! 

Not a member? 

Join now to get your day off 

and share in the fun at the Zoo!

United Magazine Summer 2020

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