A new approach to APS workplace relations
A new approach to workplace relations is being implemented by the Australian Government with the release of the Public Sector Workplace Relations Policy 2023 in March 2023.
This policy aims to ensure that the Australian Government is a model employer, a key Australian Public Service reform priority. It supports APS-wide bargaining to reduce differences in pay and conditions between APS agencies and deliver service-wide pay increases.
APS-wide enterprise bargaining began on 30 March 2023 for APS and Executive Level employees engaged under the Public Service Act 1999.
The Workplace Relations Bargaining Taskforce managed negotiations for pay and common conditions on behalf of more than 100 APS agencies. It did so by hearing and considering over 1,600 claims from unions and other employee representatives and by developing and consulting on more than 90 proposed common conditions.
On 29 August 2023, the Australian Government tabled its improved pay offer to APS employees, as part of the bargaining process. Over 160,000 APS employees were offered an 11.2% pay increase over 3 years, the highest in more than a decade.
Salary differences between APS agencies are being addressed by creating a base salary range at each APS classification, from APS 1 to EL 2.
Service-wide bargaining will deliver innovative solutions to workforce pressures and initiate significant reforms to APS terms and conditions of employment. This includes:
- an embedded APS-wide approach to flexible work
- significant improvements to parental leave
- improved conditions for First Nations and culturally diverse people.
Agencies are negotiating separately with their employees on any specific requirements, with enterprise agreements expected to be finalised by early 2024.
See also
Australian Government (n.d.) APS bargaining, APSC website, https://www.apsc.gov.au/apsbargaining, accessed 5 October 2023.
Australian Government (n.d.) Workplace Relations, APSC website, https://www.apsc.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/workplace-relations, accessed 5 October 2023.