The Department has today confirmed in writing that they will meet their obligations under clause 17.3 of the Permanent Award and make good the underpayment of permanent overtime meal allowances.
This is in response to our proceedings before the IRC for the underpayment of these claims and includes back payment of eligible claims to 26 February 2023 along with prospective payments for as long as the provision remains operative.
Back payment of all outstanding claims from 26 February 2023.
A one-off payment of $3000 to all members who can perform overtime for the purposes of minimum staffing.
FRNSW will pay (and vary the Award to reflect this) all current In Water Rescue Operators the weekly In Water Allowance regardless of where you are stationed.
FRNSW will also pay (and vary the Award to reflect this) all trained and current GLR operators that are attached to RCR only stations the GLR allowance.
With this commitment from the Department to make the payments, which form the basis of our claim under the 2023 and 2024 Award, the FBEU has consented to an adjournment of the proceedings pending final resolution of the process for payment.
We will be meeting with the Department shortly to formalise arrangements and timing for back payment and future payments. Further communication on this will be published following that meeting.
GENERAL LAND RESCUE CHANGES TO BE IMPLEMENTED
The Department has also this week confirmed that they intend to implement the changes to the Rescue Allowance as a result of the outcome in the 2024 Award effective from 2 October 2026.
This means that from that date current Rescue Operators at Non-GLR stations will no longer be eligible to receive any allowance and those who remain attached to a GLR accredited station will be paid the reduced GLR Allowance rate as opposed to the current Rescue Allowance.
The FBEU continues to advocate against these changes, in particular the significant impact it will have on rescue capability in regional areas, and it remains a priority piece of work for us in our current Award negotiations to reverse these changes and seek a full and proper assessment of the work value of GLR.
Impacted members will receive direct communication from the Department regarding the changes this week. Any queries regarding how these changes will impact you personally can be directed to the office for assistance.
