A short time ago we wrote to a number of Health services in relation to  some specialist Forensic clinical positions that have been advertised at a P3 level despite being highly specialized roles requiring a large amount of experience.  We are of the view that these ought be more appropriately classified and paid at P4 level.

I have received responses from Southern Health and Melbourne Health indicating their intention to recruit at the P3 level.

It appears that Melbourne Health commenced interviews despite concerns with these positions being raised with MH by the VPA prior to the closing of the advertisement. Each of the responses are extremely dissatisfying.

The Dept of Health has said that the issue of grading & remuneration of psychologists should remain with the employing Health service – it seems that they are saying this even though the funding is at the minimum possible level (P3) for this type of position. If the Department is only prepared to fund the position at a P3 level, then it makes it difficult for health services to recruit at P4.

Alfred Health has said that it intends to re-advertise the position there at P4, but not on the basis of remuneration and classification issues, but in relation to attracting a suitable field of applicants.

We know that public health services are finding it difficult to recruit experienced clinical psychologists.