People
Key goal for 2008–09
Negotiate a new collective agreement with strong initiatives that promote a balance of work and life and reinforce our reputation as a family-friendly Department.
Progress
The new FaHCSIA collective agreement 2009–2011 commenced on 14 January 2009 (replacing our previous certified agreement). The new agreement continues the existing suite of family-friendly conditions, increases paid maternity leave and adoptive leave from 12 weeks to 14 weeks, and introduces a provision for compassionate leave.
Other commitments for 2008–09
Survey our staff—introduce regular ‘pulse’ surveys to measure staff perceptions and consider feedback when making organisational decisions.
- We introduced an integrated system of staff surveying in February 2009 including annual staff surveys, six-monthly staff engagement pulse surveys and entry and exit surveys.
- We have considered results in detail (at branch level and Department-wide) and formulated plans to make FaHCSIA a great place to work with a strong performance culture.
Deliver and expand key social programs for employees—including our national Cultural Appreciation Program and training for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mentors
- We have delivered Cultural Appreciation Program training to 447 staff since October 2008.
- We provided Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mentor training to 93 employees, who have committed to mentoring FaHCSIA’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees.
- We engaged beyondblue toconduct workshops to raise employee awareness of, and reduce the stigma associated with, people who suffer from depression or anxiety. In 2008–09 we held 22 workshops, attracting 170 employees.
Ensure the ongoing development and safety of staff—by implementing and reviewing our National Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Strategy and our Organisational Learning Strategy.
- We developed the OHS Strategic Plan 2009–2010 and have made significant progress against the 25 national OHS initiatives.
- The final draft of the Organisation Learning Strategy was prepared and will be submitted to People Committee and Executive Management Group before the end of 2009.
Develop and implement a people strategy for the Department—focusing on ensuring we are able to attract, retain and develop our people.
- In February 2009, we launched the FaHCSIA People Strategy 2009–2010.
Full details are in the section on Valuing our people
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