Members, if you had told me on the 1st January that I would be sitting in the General Secretary’s chair today I would have thought you were mad!

I have had the great honour, alongside several of my colleagues, to act in this position while Graeme Kelly has taken extended leave.

What a year it has been! We have had several major wins including the biggest increase in workers’ rights in NSW in 30 years!  Check it out here

Nationally we have seen new Pay Day legislation become law on 1 July 2025 which will deliver workers tens of thousands more in their super fund on retirement.  Check it out here

On the local front our local government members had an Award increase and bonus paid in July with negotiations commencing for Award 2026. With our new online webinars members will have the opportunity to have even more say in how the new Award is negotiated.

We also held an extremely successful Delegates Conference in September. I congratulate Stephen Hughes who was acting General Secretary at the time and had coverage of the planning of conference throughout the year. It was a great achievement.

On a personal note, following taking on the role of Manager EUPSA, I have handed over the Women’s Officer role to Danielle Kelly. I look forward to the 2026 conference as Danielle and the committee have already begun to make plans.

I really urge you to check out the journals we have put out this year – what you will find is a celebration of our members – their battles and wins. You will read about the personalities we have in our great union. I think you will be inspired as I am every day to work alongside the members of the United Services Union.

Thank you members!

I want to thank all our members, whether delivering essential council services, working at our airports or supporting our community in other ways, especially those who will be away from family and friends over the Christmas break

Finally, did you know that we will be holding quarterly online mass meetings and you are invited! Our first meeting is tonight at 7pm. You can  REGISTER HERE and we will see you tonight!

 

By Your Side

Sandie Morthen
Acting General Secretary
United Services Union