After the expiration of the 21 days conciliation period, 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. A Full bench has not yet been convened to provide directions to the parties about preparation of materials and to set dates for hearing.

Notwithstanding that the 21 days has expired, lines of negotiations between the Union & DHS remain open. The parties will return to conciliation in the AIRC on Monday morning. Negotiations are inching forward.

The ‘pencilled in’ meeting on Monday 7 April 2008 is RESCHEDULED to the new date of  THURSDAY 17 APRIL 2008 at 4.00 pm for a report back on the public sector negotiations in the Meeting Room 1 at Trades Hall. All job representatives are urged to attend. All members are welcome.  Please ensure that your department is represented at this important meeting.