Council Ensures Services Continue Amid Unlawful Industrial Action
Published on 27 February 2025
Statement from Wingecarribee Shire Council:
Wingecarribee Shire Council assures the community that despite the unlawful industrial action occurring from 1:00 PM on Thursday, 27 February, to 8:30 AM on Monday, 3 March, essential services will continue. While some Council services may be impacted, Council is working to minimise disruptions and ensure critical operations continue as planned.
Council respects the right of employees to engage in union activities but strongly refutes the misleading and inflammatory claims made by the United Services Union (USU). These claims fail to reflect the reality of Council’s workplace culture and disregard the significant progress made in fostering a positive and supportive work environment
Having consistently worked with the USU and other unions to resolve workplace concerns through proper legal channels, including the Industrial Relations Commission. It is disappointing that the USU has escalated a handful of isolated individual matters to the media and members instead of continuing to engage constructively with Council.
Council is committed to supporting staff and serving the community with integrity. A new salary system has been implemented to ensure fair and competitive pay, along with health and wellbeing initiatives such as Transition to Retirement seminars and a comprehensive employee recognition program.
Over the past 12 months, Council has reduced a turnover rate from 23% to 15% to be in line with industry standards (14%) and supported over 60 employees in career advancement.
Additionally, the Council’s traineeship, apprenticeship, and cadet program has grown from three participants in 2021 to 17 today, with further expansion planned in 2025.
Council remains dedicated to transparency, ethical leadership, and the delivery of high-quality services. We will continue to work collaboratively with unions while addressing misinformation responsibly and ensuring the community remains well-served.