On 16 June 2026, the NSW Industrial Relations Commission made the new Local Government (State) Award, following months of negotiations, consultation and member voting across New South Wales.
The Award was endorsed by 89.94% of voting members, ensuring the people it affects most had the final say on the outcome.
Your Award Delivers
- 12% Pay Increase Over Three Years
- More Paid Parental Leave
- New MyLeave Entitlement
- Easier Access to Sick Leave
- Stronger Flexible Work & Working From Home Protections
- Greater Protections Around Artificial Intelligence
- Stronger Union & Delegate Rights
- Improved Early Childhood Education & Care Entitlements
- Fairer Leaseback Vehicle Protections
- Greater Certainty Around Reproductive Health Leave & Fixed-Term Contracts
Throughout negotiations, USU delegates attended seven online meetings with the Negotiating Team, helping to discuss proposals, share workplace feedback and keep members informed.
Members also joined four online meetings with the Negotiating Team, providing another opportunity to hear updates, ask questions and stay engaged as bargaining progressed.
When negotiations concluded, 485 workplace voting meetings were held across NSW over six weeks, giving members the opportunity to vote on whether the Union should support the proposed Award.
Thank you to every delegate who represented their workplace, every member who attended meetings, asked questions and cast their vote, and every organiser who worked tirelessly to ensure members had the information they needed to make an informed decision.
This Award belongs to all of you.
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