The statutory 21 day period expired on 26 March 2008 (last week).

After the expiration of the 21 days, under the Workplace Relations Act 1996, a Full Bench must be convened to arbitrate the claims of the parties which have been made against each other. To date the Full Bench has not been convened.

Meanwhile negotiations are continuing with the Department of Human Services, despite the expiration of the 21 days. We are making progress, but negotiations are not concluded yet.

We understand members’ frustration at the glacial pace of negotiations. We will be in contact with members as soon as we are in a position to report back on a possible offer which we could recommend to members. We will convene a meeting of members to discuss the offer and to vote on whether to accept it or not.

Please ‘pencil in’ a meeting on Monday 14 April 2008 at 4.00 pm for a report back on the public sector negotiations at Trades Hall. Venue to be advised.  All job representatives are urged to attend. All members are welcome.  Please ensure that your department is represented at this important meeting.