MEDIACOM-RELEASE-PSA

THE PSA, the union representing WINZ workers, today welcomed former State Services Commissioner Don Hunn's report into WINZ. `It is a vindication of our work in WINZ to change its culture,' said PSA national secretary Richard Wagstaff.

The report recommends government ministers develop a strategy to implement change at WINZ. The PSA is seeking a meeting with State Services Minister Trevor Mallard and Social Services and Employment Minister Steve Maharey to plan how the PSA can participate in that work.

`The PSA and WINZ have been working together to prepare the groundwork for change. We have an agreement specifically aimed at "the creation of a culture of respect, co-operation, openness, mutual trust and quality communication." That's a good start. We are encouraged by WINZ's willingness to work co-operatively for change,' said Wagstaff.

`The landmark Partnership for Quality agreement, signed on May 1 between the Government and the PSA, is designed to build quality public services and public confidence in them,' he said.

`The agreement offers employees direct collective participation through their union in the management of their work, their training, personal development, and their working environment. We look forward to using the agreement as a basis for changing the culture at WINZ. `The Hunn report, by identifying the issues, makes a good starting point, ' Wagstaff said.

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