PSA CPSU NSW Podcast

The Domestic Violence Needs Public Services campaign is led by PSA NSW President Nicole Jess and features insights from Nadia Graham, a caseworker seconded from Community Services, alongside survivors Bindi and Danny. The campaign is built around five core demands, with a primary focus on establishing transparency and accountability to ensure that the $274 million currently allocated to these services is spent effectively and reaches the intended victims. A significant systemic issue highlighted is that two out of three women in New South Wales currently lack access to a caseworker, which prevents them from receiving the necessary support to stay safe in their homes or relocate.The union advocates for the expansion of the "gold standard" model currently operating as the Nepean Western Sydney Blue Mountains Family Violence Service in Mount Druitt. While the PSA acknowledges the vital role of NGOs, they argue that the public sector model provides a unique level of continuity, sometimes supporting clients for up to four years through legal, housing, and child protection hurdles. The campaign specifically calls for this public service model to be implemented in 12 additional regions across the state to provide consistent, long-term support that is not restricted by the time-limited budgets often found in the non-profit sector.Another critical pillar of the campaign involves offender rehabilitation, particularly for those on remand. Nicole Jess noted that out of 1,200 recent arrests, approximately half were for domestic violence, yet these individuals often spend 12 to 16 months in custody without participating in any programs to address their behavior. The campaign seeks to change this by making offenders responsible for their actions while in custody to prevent increased violence upon their release. For those seeking more information or wishing to support the movement, the union has directed the public to domesticviolenceneedspublicservices.com.au.

In this episode of the PSA CPSU NSW Podcast, Assistant General Secretary Troy Wright pulls back the curtain on the critical, behind-the-scenes work of the Forensic Services Group with Delegate James Shonk. Moving away from the glamorised depictions in television dramas, this discussion explores the real-world complexities of crime scene investigation, laboratory analysis, and the vital role civilian staff play in the justice system.The conversation dives into the immense pressure of managing high-stakes caseloads while ensuring absolute accuracy in evidence processing. Beyond the technical demands, guests share the personal toll of this work, highlighting the vicarious trauma often faced by those who regularly deal with the physical remains of criminal acts. Finally, Troy discusses the PSA’s ongoing advocacy for forensic staff, focusing on securing better mental health support, modernizing laboratory resources, and fighting for fair pay that reflects the increasingly specialised nature of their vocation.Support the show by hitting the subscribe button to stay informed on the stories of public sector workers.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X for the latest updates and campaign news.Credits:Produced by: Aaron HewittExecutive Producer: Marianne Ledic

In this episode, Troy Wright (Assistant General Secretary of the PSA NSW) sits down with his South Australian counterpart, Celia Brougham (Assistant General Secretary of the PSA SA), to discuss one of the most significant union victories in recent Australian history.When Celia was elected in July 2025, she inherited a dire situation: a workforce that had endured years of stagnant wages and a government proposal that failed to meet the soaring cost of living. This conversation tracks the strategic escalation of industrial action—from regional rallies in Port Augusta to massive marches through the heart of Adelaide—that eventually forced the Malinauskas government to the table.We dive into the "Justice Focus" strategy, where correctional officers, home detention monitors, and sheriff's officers effectively brought the legal system to a halt to secure a fair deal for 40,000 public sector workers. We also discuss the ongoing battle against prison privatisation and why the fight for public services is more critical now than ever.Produced by: Aaron HewittExecutive Producer: Marianne LedicRecorded on: Gadigal Land (Sydney

In this episode of the PSA CPSU NSW Podcast, host Troy Wright sits down with District Fisheries Officers John Staines and Terry Steele to uncover the multifaceted and often dangerous reality of protecting Australia’s aquatic resources. Operating from both the coastal regions of Maclean and the inland waterways of Bathurst, these officers manage everything from recreational bag limits to complex commercial industries involving prawns, crabs, and even the specialized eel trade. The discussion dives deep into the high-stakes battle against black-market poaching and organized crime, particularly within the lucrative abalone industry where officers often face significant safety risks. Beyond enforcement, John and Terry explain their crucial role in environmental conservation, highlighting how habitat degradation and invasive species like European Carp pose a greater threat to fish stocks than fishing itself. The episode also addresses the industrial challenges currently facing the vocation, including the PSA’s efforts to modernize protective equipment and secure fair pay through the Industrial Relations Commission to reflect the increasing technical complexity of the role. From monitoring seafood contamination to boarding trawlers in the dead of night, this conversation reveals why Fisheries Officers are essential frontline defenders of both public health and the natural environment. Follow the PSA CPSU NSW on social media to stay updated on how we support workers across the public sector. 

In this episode, Troy Wright sits down with Ian Watts, Office Manager at the Lidcombe Coroner’s Court and a PSA delegate, to pull back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood parts of the NSW justice system. Ian shares his journey from the private sector to a career defined by the intersection of law, medicine, and deep human empathy.We explore the massive scale of the court’s operations—handling roughly 8,000 cases annually—and the delicate balance staff must strike when assisting families through their darkest moments. Ian also discusses the vital role of the PSA in supporting the mental health and resilience of public servants who face vicarious trauma daily as part of their "occupational hazard".If you enjoyed this episode please follow us at PSA CPSU NSW on all platforms.PSA CPSU NSW Membership: psa.asn.au/join

Assistant General Secretary Troy Wright sits down to discuss the massive machinery of government change that brought the state’s public housing services together to form Homes NSW. The episode breaks down exactly what the merger of the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) Housing, the Aboriginal Housing Office (AHO), and the Land and Housing Corporation (LAHC) means for both the tenants and the frontline public sector workers managing the transition.The conversation dives deep into the daily realities of housing staff who are currently navigating an unprecedented state-wide housing crisis. From managing extensive waitlists and supporting tenants with complex mental health and social needs, to tackling the massive backlog of maintenance for aging public housing properties, the workload is immense. While the creation of Homes NSW aims to streamline these disjointed services, the practical reality of blending different workplace cultures and IT systems requires heavy lifting from the staff on the ground.Finally, the episode highlights the critical role of the PSA during this monumental shift. Protecting hard-won conditions, ensuring workloads remain safe and manageable, and fighting for adequate resourcing are top priorities for the union. Ultimately, a successful public housing system that truly supports the state's most vulnerable residents relies entirely on a well-supported, fully staffed workforce.If you enjoy this please follow us on our socials at PSA CPSU NSW.

Assistant General Secretary Troy Wright sits down with Glenn Elliott-Rudder, a Wagga Wagga-based Sheriff's Officer and PSA delegate, to discuss the realities of working in the New South Wales Sheriff's Office. As the oldest law enforcement body in the state, established in 1824, Glenn explains that the lineage of the role actually traces back to Anglo-Saxon times, long predating the classic American Western sheriff.A massive part of a Sheriff's day-to-day job is protecting the justice system. This includes screening visitors for weapons, managing juries, and de-escalating situations with highly emotional or agitated people inside the courthouse. Beyond the courthouse walls, Sheriffs are also responsible for enforcing civil orders. This challenging work involves serving legal documents like divorce papers, chasing down debts, and carrying out property evictions.The complexities of the job have increased significantly in recent years. Officers frequently find themselves managing confrontations with anti-government "sovereign citizens," as well as dealing with individuals affected by illicit drugs or experiencing mental health crises. The episode also breaks down the recent, highly successful industrial action taken by Sheriff's Officers across the state. Through collective union action and striking, members secured a vital reclassification of their roles and a significant pay raise that finally reflects the true dangers and demands of their profession.If you enjoy this please follow us on our socials at PSA CPSU NSW.

In this episode of the PSA CPSU NSW podcast, hosts Troy Wright and Jason Mountney preview the Autumn edition of Red Tape magazine, focusing heavily on the union's recent advocacy and victories for public sector workers. The discussion highlights major ongoing campaigns, including the push to replace fragmented NGO domestic violence programs with a unified, government-run service, alongside demands for better mental health protections for civilian police and corrective workers exposed to severe frontline trauma. The hosts also celebrate several significant industrial wins, such as securing substantial overtime back pay for Service NSW employees, protecting the working conditions of disability services staff transferred to NGOs, and successfully lobbying the state government to trim the bloated Senior Executive Service by 15% to keep the focus on frontline staff. 

In this episode, host Troy Wright is joined by Stewart Little for a wide-ranging discussion on the growing housing crisis facing public sector workers across New South Wales, particularly in regional and high-needs communities. They examine how the lack of affordable and secure housing is undermining workforce attraction and retention, even in areas with strong job opportunities and significant community need.The conversation also focuses on domestic and family violence, highlighting the critical role of publicly delivered, wraparound services in prevention, safety and long-term support. Troy Wright and Stewart Little reflect on the limitations of fragmented service delivery and the risks associated with outsourcing frontline services that require strong public accountability.Further discussion explores the long-term impact of privatisation on essential public services, the importance of rebuilding public sector capacity, and the case for fair wages and work value recognition across a diverse public sector workforce. The episode concludes with reflections on the major industrial, policy and service delivery challenges ahead in 2026, and the responsibility of government to support workers and the communities they serve.

In this episode, Assistant Secretary Troy Wright sits down with two PSA delegates from the NSW Rural Fire Service — Jim Killeen and John Osmond — to uncover the often-overlooked professional workforce that keeps the RFS running behind the scenes. They explore the essential roles staff play in community protection, risk planning, hazard reduction, volunteer support, fleet logistics, and emergency coordination across New South Wales.The conversation also dives into:The reality of year-round fire preparedness across NSWHow the RFS works with private landowners, brigades, and other agenciesThe evolution of the RFS and its unique volunteer-staff modelA major PSA win on overtime rights for RFS employeesEmerging health and safety challenges, including PFAS exposure and presumptive cancer legislationA timely and insightful discussion as NSW heads into another fire season.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the PSA CPSU NSW Podcast and follow us across all our social channels to stay updated and support the work of members across the state.

In this episode, Assistant Secretary Troy Wright sits down with Youth Justice delegates Suzi Evans and Judd Westling to shine a light on a vital but often overlooked part of the NSW public sector. Together, they discuss what day-to-day life inside Youth Justice centres really looks like — from supporting vulnerable young people, to navigating gang influences, to preparing detainees for life after custody.Suzi and Judd speak candidly about the emotional toll and the rewards of the work, the challenges caused by payroll and leave system failures, and the urgent need for fair, timely investigations into staff matters. They also explore how under-resourced child protection systems and community services contribute to young people entering detention far too early.This conversation offers a rare, honest look into an essential frontline service — and the members who keep it running.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the PSA CPSU NSW podcast and follow us across our social platforms. Every follow and subscription helps us grow the show and continue sharing important stories from members across the state.

In this episode, host Marianne Ledic sits down with PSA CPSU NSW General Secretary and CPSU SPSF Federal Secretary, Stewart Little, to reflect on a defining year for members across New South Wales. Together, they unpack major wins in child protection, corrections, and education; the continued fight against privatisation; and the challenges facing workers — from housing affordability to workplace safety and staffing pressures.Stewart also outlines the union’s priorities for 2026, including a work value case, job security, safety reform, and the push for improved public sector resourcing. With member-led campaigns gaining momentum, this conversation highlights the strength of collective action and the central role of union solidarity in shaping a safer, fairer NSW public sector.If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to PSA CPSU NSW and follow us across our social channels to stay informed on the latest news, campaigns, and workplace wins. Together, we’re stronger.

Foundation House has been a lifeline for countless workers facing addiction, gambling, and mental health challenges. In this episode, host Troy Wright speaks with Alex, who shares how the program operates, what residents experience during recovery, and how prevention and early intervention are shaping the future of workplace wellbeing.This episode also explores FOUNDO Blue, a proactive program providing mental health and critical incident support across the construction and public sectors.Follow the PSA CPSU NSW on all social media platforms for updates, stories, and resources to support members and their families.

In this week’s episode of the PSA CPSU Podcast, Assistant General Secretary Troy Wright speaks with Minister Kate Washington about her journey from community advocate to Minister for Families and Communities and Minister for Disability Inclusion.They discuss the government’s major child protection reforms, the crucial role of caseworkers and foster carers, and how the NSW Government is working to rebuild public trust and accountability in social services.🎧 Produced by Aaron Hewitt, with direction from Executive Producer Marianne Ledic and support from the PSA Communications Team. 🎙️ Follow PSA CPSU NSW on all social media platforms to stay updated on union news, campaigns, and future episodes.

In this edition of the PSA Podcast, Assistant General Secretary Troy Wright sits down with journalist Jason Mountney to break down the Spring issue of Red Tape. They cover:SafeWork inspectors and the rollout of body-worn camerasYouth Justice members standing up over ongoing payroll issuesThe inspiring Champions of the StateThe push for fair pay for public sector psychologistsAnd a discussion on multiculturalism, secure work, and accountability in Parliament🎧 Tune in, stay informed, and don’t forget to follow PSA CPSU NSW on all social media platforms to keep up with our campaigns and stories from across the public sector.

In this week’s PSA Podcast, host Troy Wright is joined by PSA Industrial Manager Dave Bartle and PSA Industrial Officer Dave Freyer to unpack a looming crisis in New South Wales correctional centres. Following the Ombudsman’s findings, thousands of inmate misconduct cases may be overturned or disregarded — with serious implications for staff safety, inmate management, and community protection. The discussion explores how we got here, why the current system isn’t working, and what needs to change to restore order and fairness inside our prison.For more updates, follow PSA CPSU NSW on all social media platforms.

In this episode, host Marianne Ledic speaks to PSA President Nicole Jess & Womens Industrial Officer Simone Scalmer to reflect on 95 years of the PSA Women’s Council from the early fight for equal pay to today’s campaigns for reproductive leave, domestic violence support, and workplace safety. Featuring powerful stories from the 2025 Women’s Conference, we hear how women past and present have raised their voices, driven change, and built a safe and inspiring space for union members. This conversation celebrates history, acknowledges ongoing struggles, and looks forward to the victories yet to come. If you know someone who would be a valuable speaker at the 2026 Women’s Conference, please get in touch with us via the contacts below: [email protected]@[email protected] you enjoyed this episode, we’d love for you to follow PSA CPSU NSW across all social media platforms to stay connected and up to date.

This week, the PSA CPSU NSW Podcast puts a spotlight on the large and important membership within Corrective Services.Host Troy Wright first speaks with Senior Industrial Officer Thane Pearce about the recent enterprise bargaining at the privately-run Clarence Correctional Centre, operated by the multinational company Serco. They discuss the challenges of negotiating under the federal Fair Work jurisdiction, the push to close pay gap between private and public sector officers, and how members overwhelmingly rejected an initial "lowball" offer from the company. The segment details how the union secured a new, significantly improved three-year deal that provides a 12% pay increase, retention bonuses, and improved overtime conditions, which is now awaiting approval from the Fair Work Commission.Later in the episode, Troy is joined by Darren King, chairperson of the Prison Officer's Vocational Branch, to discuss the recent political announcement proposing the closure and sale of Long Bay Correctional Centre to address the housing crisis. They break down the significant impact this would have and they also highlight the jail's unique and vital role in the state's correctional system, running specialised programs for violent, aged, and frail offenders.If you enjoyed this episode, please follow us on all platforms at PSA CPSU NSW

In this episode, we go behind the scenes at Create NSW with Stuart, a Project Coordinator and PSA delegate, to explore the critical role the agency plays in supporting arts and culture across the state. From managing cultural landmarks like Carriageworks and the Roslyn Packer Theatre to overseeing grant funding and cultural space activation, Create NSW is central to the creative life of New South Wales.But with a restructure now underway and budget cuts of up to 35% on the table, the future is uncertain. Stuart explains what these changes mean for staff, the arts community, and the delivery of the state’s Creative Communities policy. He talks about the challenges of trying to do more with fewer resources, the risk of losing invaluable expertise, and the importance of union support in protecting both workers and the sector they serve.This conversation is not only about one agency, but about the broader fight to protect jobs, culture, and fairness in the public sector.If you enjoyed this episode, feel free to follow us on all social media platforms at PSA CPSU NSW

In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of our schools — the administrative, support, and specialist staff who keep everything running. From front office managers to learning support officers, these essential workers are the glue of the school community. We talk about the importance of PSA Schools Recognition Week, the challenges members face, and the wins achieved through collective union action. Join us as we celebrate their contributions and highlight why recognition matters. If you enjoyed this episode, feel free to follow on all socials at PSA CPSU NSW

The Art Gallery of NSW is facing a $7.5 million funding shortfall, with management proposing to cut 51 positions. Nick, an installation manager and PSA delegate, joins us to share his firsthand experience of how these cuts will affect workers, programs, and the preservation of Australia’s cultural heritage. From the challenges of protecting centuries-old artworks to the fight against creeping casualisation, this episode shines a light on the people who keep the gallery running—and why their fight matters for every person in NSW. If you liked this episode, please hit follow and check us out on all social media platforms at PSA CPSU NSW

Assistant General Secretary Troy Wright is joined by PSA member Anita Calabria and delegate Nadia Graham for an honest conversation about the realities of child protection work. They share their personal journeys, the immense pressures caseworkers face, the importance of cultural support for Aboriginal children, and the ongoing fight for resources and recognition. This episode highlights the dedication of PSA members working in one of the most demanding and vital areas of the NSW public sector. If you enjoyed this then feel free to follow on all platforms at PSA CPSU NSW

Assistant General Secretary Troy Wright sits down with Student Support Officers Mel Kerry from Rivendell School and Joshua Larwood from Kooringal High School. They discuss the crucial yet often overlooked role SSOs play in NSW public schools — from supporting student wellbeing and mental health to helping young people navigate social challenges and build resilience. If you enjoyed this episode please feel free to follow us here or on all platforms at PSA CPSU NSW 

In this episode of the PSA CPSU NSW Podcast, we break down the shocking job cut announcements across Transport for NSW and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. Host Troy Wright is joined by PSA industrial experts Nathan Bradshaw and Shane Howes to discuss the scale of the proposed cuts, the real impact on frontline services, and what the union is doing to protect workers across the state.From executive bloat to inadequate consultation, and the fight for fair redeployment — this episode gives members the insight and support they need in a time of uncertainty.If you enjoy this podcast please feel free to follow us here and on all platforms at PSA CPSU NSW

In this episode of the PSA CPSU NSW Podcast, host Marianne Ledic sits down with the Honourable Rose Jackson, NSW Minister for Housing, Homelessness, Mental Health, Water and Youth.Since entering the NSW Parliament in 2019, Minister Jackson has become a driving force for social justice and public sector reform. In this conversation, she shares insights into her journey from student activism and union leadership to the state’s upper house—and now, to leading one of the largest housing reform agendas in recent history.We unpack the landmark $6.6 billion “Building Homes for NSW” initiative, which focuses on tackling homelessness, repairing aging housing stock, and delivering thousands of new homes across the state. Minister Jackson also reflects on the role of public servants, the challenges ahead, and why bold policy is needed now more than ever.Whether you work in housing, policy, community services—or simply care about a fairer NSW—this episode offers a front-row seat to one of the most important conversations in public service today.Please feel free to follow us on all platforms at PSA CPSU NSW for more.

The official podcast of the Public Service Association of NSW, where we share the stories of the people who keep our state moving, our members.In this special episode, recorded on location in Jindabyne nea Kosciuszko National Park, we hear from two long-serving rangers – Rob Gibbs and Andrew Miller – as they sit down with PSA CPSU NSW Assistant Secretary Troy Wright.In recognition of World Ranger Day, they discuss the challenges and changes in DDon’t forget to subscribe to the PSA CPSU NSW Podcast and share it with other members, colleagues and friends who care about our public services and natural environments.And most importantly, this World Ranger Day, we acknowledge and thank all rangers across New South Wales and across Australia, for their vital work in protecting our parks, wildlife, and cultural heritage.

This week’s PSA Podcast, is hosted by Assistant General Secretary Troy Wright and is joined by Legal Services Acting Manager Ben Trainer and Education Industrial Manager Siobhan Callanan to unpack the Workplace Protections Bill 2025 and its implications for PSA members. They discuss major reforms including enhanced arbitration powers for the Industrial Relations Commission, new protections against delegate victimisation, and the introduction of bullying and sexual harassment jurisdictions. The episode also shifts focus to the ongoing crisis in the higher education sector, highlighting job cuts and funding issues at universities like Wollongong, and the wider impact on professional staff and students across the state.Please follow us at PSA CPSU NSW on all platforms.

Hosting this weeks PSA CPSU NSW Podcast, is Troy Wright, Assistant General Secretary of the PSA CPSU NSW, he is joined by Senior Organisers Glenn Duncan and Belinda Tsirekas to break down some of the major developments across the sector.On the agenda:The child protection budget announcements, including new carer payments, workforce investment, and the significant restructuring of the foster care system away from NGOs.The child protection ballot — exploring how informed decision-making was supported, the results, and what they reveal about our democratic processes.A three-part discussion on public sector criticism in the media and beyond, covering Shane Wright’s article on the size of the public service, and Anthony Manning’s remarks at ICAC, with a broader look at how public servants are perceived.Feel free to follow us on all Social media platforms at PSA CPSU NSW.

In this special episode of the PSA CPSU NSW Podcast, we go through the key elements of the proposed 2025 Crown Employees (Child Protection) Award—including what it means for your pay, your role, and your rights.We cover the proposed salary increases, the introduction of new roles like Graduate and Leading Caseworker, and the long-awaited abolishment of forfeited hours.We’ll also explain, how the Award supports staff, and what comes next if it's approved.If you work in Child Protection, this is essential listening before you cast your vote. 

How do you tell the stories that matter to 40,000 public sector workers in NSW? In this episode of Inside Red Tape, host Marianne Ledic sits down with Issue Editor Jason Mountney and Staff Writer Damian McDonald to go behind the Winter 2025 Edition. From the return of Parklea Prison into public hands, to campaigns for safer workplaces, to celebrating diversity in the public service - We unpack the stories driving change, and how the voices that make them powerful. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how Red Tape comes together, and why storytelling is one of the union's strongest tools.

This week Marianne sits down with Hilton Donovan and Sean to discuss this weeks NAIDOC week and what it means to for them and their communities.

Listen in to our Senior Communications Officer Jason Mountney & our Research Officer Andy Asquith discuss the implications the new budget may have on our members.

On Todays episode we have PSA's very own Ricky Walford and Mal Cochrane to discuss the upcoming Referendum and share their thoughts on The Voice.

On Todays episode we discuss the NSW State budget and how it effects our members

Join us for today's engaging episode of the PSA Podcast, where we are thrilled to host Juilette Sizer and Tanya Pople. Tune in as they delve into the exciting details of the upcoming PSA School Recognition Week, celebrating the excellence within our educational institutions. From highlighting remarkable achievements to sharing recent victories,  Juilette and Tanya offer insightful discussions that showcase the positive impact of their roles and their coworkers roles in the educational system. 

On this episode, Host Marianne is joined by Carla, Michael and Mike - the three participants of Unions NSW's Winter Internship program. 

After a long campaign, the voting is complete and NSW has a new Premier. Acting General Secretary Troy Wright talks with the PSA Communications team about our union's role in a historic electoral victory. 

On the podcast today, we talk to PSA President Nicole Jess and PSA Women's officer Simone Scalmer about International Women's Day and some of the challenges still facing women in 2023

This week Mark Morey, Unions NSW secretary talks to host Marianne Ledic about issues relating to the Union movement leading up to the NSW election in March 

Stewart Little talks to new host Marianne Ledic about the upcoming election campaign and the main issues for the PSA leading up to election day.

On the podcast today is former Senior Public Servant Carmel McKeough. She discusses the vital importance of being in the union for all NSW Public Servants. 

On the podcast this week, PSA General Secretary Stewart Little and Assistant General Secretary Troy Wright discuss how the selling of public assets and transferring public services to private companies has cost us all.

Portable Entitlements allow workers to accrue leave and other entitlements through their industry rather than through their employer. This means that workers in NSW disability sector who change employer, but remain within the sector, will hold on to their entitlements. To discuss more is Senior Industrial Manager Thane Pearce.

On the Podcast today - we look at the NSW Government's obsession with temporary contracts for public servants and the ways this process undermines  NSW Public Service's need for confidence and assurance in their vocation.

On the podcast this week is NSW Labor MP Sophie Cotsis - Shadow Minister for Industrial Relations. Ms Cotsis outlines NSW Labor's plans to scrap the wages cap should they be elected to government at the State election in March 2023.

PSA/CPSU NSW Women's Conference 2022 Chair Leanne Smith talks about some of the issues currently faced by women in the workplace.

On the podcast this week, Senior Vice President Juliette Sizer celebrates Recognition week 2022 and talks about the need for permanency in our schools.

NSW Treasurer Matt Kean seems to have decided that demonising unions is a winning formula - but he is out of touch with the view of a majority of Australians who understand how important unions are in protecting employees' wages and conditions at work.

This week NSW skills minister Alister Henskins was asked in budget estimates about his government’s support for an increase in immigration to fill the skills crisis gripping NSW. However, the PSA presents the case that the skills crisis has been there for the better part of a decade and in fact, it is the policies of the NSW government that have exacerbated the problems. On the podcast today is Assistant General Secretary Troy Wright.

A report into the response to the flood crisis of Northern NSW was released last week.  The report, co-authored by former police commissioner Mick Fuller was critical of a number of agencies that fall under the PSA’s representation. In response, General Secretary Stewart Little gives insight into why some of the PSAs submissions were not adhered to and some practical measures that could have been implemented that stand in contrast to some of the reports recommendations.