United Voice; Health Services Union

[2015] FWC 7134

[2015] FWC 7134

FAIR WORK COMMISSION

STATEMENT

Fair Work Act 2009
s.160—Variation of modern award

United Voice; Health Services Union
(AM2013/30)

DEPUTY PRESIDENT BOOTH SYDNEY, 15 OCTOBER 2015

Progress in conciliation.

[1] In December 2013 United Voice and the Health Services Union made an application to the Fair Work Commission to vary the Supported Employment Services Award in relation to the setting of wages for employees in supported employment. These employees are employed in Australian Disability Enterprises.

[2] In June 2014 a Full Bench of Commission referred the application to conciliation before me.

[3] The parties represented in the conciliation include the unions, the ACTU, National Disability Services (NDS), Australian Business Limited (ABL), disability advocacy representatives, Australian Disability Enterprises (ADEs) and representatives of parents and carers.

[4] These parties have attended conciliation, with the Department of Social Services observing, throughout 2014 and 2015.

[5] During conciliation and between sessions the parties have exchanged views and undertaken intensive research in an effort to reach agreement on matters before the Commission.

[6] The parties agree that their shared objectives are:

a) A fair, equitable and non-discriminatory wage outcome to contribute to a living income for employees in supported employment;

b) Continued opportunity for employment in supported employment settings to build and maintain the self-esteem and sense of purpose of employees;

c) Sustainable employment opportunities in viable ADEs; and

d) To provide security and confidence to employees, parents and carers for the future.

[7] The parties are developing options, including modelling, to endeavour to meet these objectives.

[8] Conciliation will continue.

DEPUTY PRESIDENT

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