The Minister for Local Government, Shelley Hancock has issued this statement regarding the Local Government (COVID-19) Splinter Award 2020. The United Services Union is proud to have played a leading role in negotiating the Splinter Award. Information on the Award can be accessed on our website: https://usu.org.au/local-government-covid-19-splinter-award-2020-summary/
– Graeme Kelly OAM, General Secretary, United Services Union
I would like to acknowledge all parties to the Local Government (State) Award for the spirit of cooperation they have demonstrated in negotiating the Local Government (COVID-19) Splinter Award 2020, which was approved by the NSW Industrial Relations Commission yesterday.
The Splinter Award, which will apply for 12 months, will protect thousands of local government jobs put at risk by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under the Splinter Award, councils will be required to look for other suitable work for their staff whose usual jobs have been impacted by mandatory closures or other changes. Where this is not possible, council staff are entitled to up to four weeks of Special Leave at their normal pay rate to cover any period where no work can be provided, (including if a staff-member is required to self-isolate) and then to be paid a weekly job retention allowance of $858.20 for a period of 3 months.
Council staff can supplement that allowance from their accrued annual or long service leave, taking it up to their ordinary pay rate.
The COVID-19 crisis has given rise to an unprecedented level of uncertainty and anxiety across a number of sectors. I am greatly encouraged and heartened to see all parties working together so closely for the benefit of council staff that have had their employment impacted by the pandemic.
Stay well.
Shelley Hancock
Minister for Local Government
