We met with Southern Cross Care’s senior representatives about the current consultation process on the Household Model today after having recently spoken to them about it at the Fair Work Commission.

Today, SCC management told us that they will be embarking on a further, more direct, consultation process with workers, residents and their families, and HACSU between now and 19 February. This will largely involve focus groups at all SCC sites.

At the meeting SCC representatives agreed to give us:

‍

• Any literature, case studies or research about the Household Model which has informed SCC’s decision to implement it. We know HACSU members have been asking for this since the initial decision was announced.

• Further details about the national and international models which are being relied upon to inform SCC’s implementation of the Household Model.

• Further details about the practical implementation of the Household Model – that is, once they make any future decisions, how they might intend to roll it out.

They also agreed to do the following after the extended consultation period:

‍

• Provide a report to HACSU which outlines the key concerns and issues raised during the focus groups.

• If the focus group process results in changes to SCC’s original proposal, Southern Cross Care will start a fresh consultation period with HACSU.

‍

We made one thing absolutely clear at this meeting: we do not support the Household Model. Neither do our members, and neither does the community.

Today’s announcement is huge. It’s clear that pressure from you and our broader campaign against the cuts has caused a rethink on the process.

We will keep fighting to stop the Household Model, but this is definitely a win for union members. Congratulations on standing together and refusing to take this lying down.

We’ll keep you updated with any more information, so keep an eye on your emails and look out for us as we visit your workplaces.

As usual, if you have any questions, please get in touch with us through HACSUassist on 1300 880 032 or assist@hacsu.org.au