The new Victorian Public Sector Enterprise agreement has been overwhelmingly endorsed by 95 per cent of Victorian public sector employees.

For the first time, the agreement provides support for those experiencing family violence, gender neutral parental leave, and recognises the cultural obligations of employees of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent.

These are progressive changes in line with the Andrews Labor Government’s work towards a more inclusive and fair Victoria.

The new deal will provide for a 2.5 per cent annual pay increase, and 0.5 per cent for service delivery improvements.

There is also an additional 0.25 per cent to ensure the workforce is able to deliver the Labor  Government’s significant reform agenda.

This includes the implementation of the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Family Violence, the rollout of  Victoria’s Regional Statement and programs to support the generation of jobs across the state.

The former Liberal Government slashed thousands of public sector jobs and took an antagonistic approach to EBA negotiations with nurses, teachers, paramedics and other vital public sector workers.

In stark contrast, under the Labor Government negotiations have been conducted cooperatively and without industrial action, securing an outcome that is good for workers and good for Victoria.

The final agreement will now be lodged with the FWC and employees will receive their first pay increase from 1 January.

The new agreement was negotiated with the CPSU on behalf of employees

Quotes attributable to Minister for Industrial Relations Natalie Hutchins

“As the state’s largest employer, we’re setting an example for all Victorians by recognising the hard work of those at the frontline of Victoria’s service delivery.”

“We entered into negotiations with our staff in an atmosphere of good faith and cooperation and have secured an outcome that is good for workers, and good for Victoria.”