UFUSA Members employed under our SAMFS Firefighters’ Enterprise Agreement should all now be in receipt of the latest pay increase of 3%. As per our advice contained most recently in WordBack 21 of 2023 the increase was operative from the first full pay period on or after 1 January 2024.
Disappointingly, members are reporting that not everyone has actually received the increase yet and this is currently being addressed with the employer. Please check your payslip if you haven’t already. If you believe there is a problem, advise the employer in writing ASAP and copy us in by email info@ufusa.com.au The new rates are contained on our website.
In order to facilitate access, you can click on this link to the new rate of pay:
https://www.ufusa.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/WageSchedule.pdf
Please ensure you use the column for the wage increase commencing 1 January 2024.
Again, as is stressed regularly, it is very important to be vigilant in always checking (and saving) your pay slips to ensure not only that the wage increase is paid when due, but that your pay is accurate for the period. Also to check that other entitlements such as your overtime and leave balances continue to be correctly recorded. Pay problems have escalated and despite assurances to the contrary, they continue. These issues are far better resolved as quickly as possible; we have instances of under and over payments in the thousands of dollars, which as you may imagine can be hugely distressing for the individuals involved, not to mention the frustrations in ascertaining the methods of calculations.
It is encouraging that MFS management continue to work with us on a systemic resolution to the continuous problems arising in the services provided by SAFECOM and Shared Services.
Secondary Employment
The issue of secondary employment has increasingly arisen as an industrial concern for our union and we note that the matter is currently one upon which the employer is consulting with members. This is an important and sometimes sensitive issue and our union of course recognises and understands the obligations placed upon employees.
It is also clear that the matter needs to be considered in the context of the employment environment. Members are encouraged to provide feedback to MFS management on your views on the matter. Some members may prefer to direct your comments and feedback through your union for reasons such as confidentiality and if so, you can email your concerns and views to info@ufusa.com.au and please mark it “Secondary Employment”.
ELECTRONIC UFUSA ELECTIONS IN 2024 – ARE YOUR CONTACT DETAILS UP TO DATE?
As members are aware, elections will be held in the near future, so this is a reminder of the importance of your details being up to date in our UFUSA records. This will ensure the electoral roll is correct and that you will receive your ballot when the time comes.
This is particularly important following the unanimous resolution of the AGM to move to an electronic ballot for the UFUSA elections so if you have recently changed your home or personal email address, or your home or mobile phone number please let us know ASAP by emailing info@ufusa.com.au or calling us direct on 8352 7211.
In solidarity
