Earlier this year, Randwick lifeguards raised concerns that they were not receiving the 20% shift penalty for work performed outside the Award’s spread of hours. Once the issue was brought to the USU, delegates and the organiser met with Council repeatedly to get it fixed.
When Council suggested averaging 14 hours per season for all lifeguards, USU delegates pushed back, pointing out that in summer (later hours and daylight savings), some members worked closer to 35 penalty-eligible hours.
Council has now reviewed six years of rosters, calculating every hour that should have attracted the 20% loading. Members have received individual summaries of their hours, with backpay up to $500 –$1000, paid at current rates, not historical ones.
Delegate Josh Reading noted that workers had tried to raise this issue with council in the past without success, making this outcome especially significant.
All Randwick lifeguards are now receiving the correct 20% loading going forward.
A clear win delivered by members, delegates and the USU backing them all the way.
