As advised in Stat 774, Genetic Health Victoria and MCRI have been offering contracts to staff, which in the case of GHV, conflict with the provisions of the EBA.

We have met with the HR manager and are waiting for a response from GHV to the issues which were raised by the MSAV in that meeting.

Our advice remains the same to members at GHV – do not sign a contract until the problems with the contracts have been resolved.

We understand from members employed by MCRI that management has been rolling out similar contracts to staff on fixed term contracts, and that staff have been pressured to sign the contracts on the basis that their employment will be terminated if they do not sign. This amounts to duress.

It seems that MCRI are attempting to roll out new contractual arrangements in advance of negotiations for a first EBA. The MSAV’s advice to scientists and technicians is not to sign any new contract without contacting the MSAV for advice first.

The MSAV intends to commence bargaining with MCRI for an agreement on behalf of its members. We are talking with the NTEU over a joint approach.

Now is the time for scientists and technicians at MCRI who are not already members to join the MSAV and make their voice heard.