The HSU#4, MSAV, VPA and AHP Committees and staff pass on our thoughts to all members and their families who have been affected by the bushfires which have wreaked such devastation across the country. In particular we are thinking of members who have lost loved ones or properties in the fires.
Please contact us and let us know if you have been significantly affected – the Union will be considering how we can best assist members in these circumstances. And we pass on our thanks and appreciation to all MSAV, VPA and AHP members who have been involved in fighting the fires or in emergency relief services, or assisting in any way.
PAID EMERGENCY SERVICES LEAVE – PUBLIC HEALTH SECTOR; COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES; FORENSICARE; AUSTRALIAN RED CROSS BLOOD SERVICE
It is no doubt not top of mind for volunteers, but members employed by the above organisations are entitled to unlimited PAID emergency services leave if they are members of the CFA, SES or similar organisations, under the provisions that the Union has negotiated in the relevant EBAs.
There is no limit on the period of paid leave that may be taken.
The only caveat is that the employers can refused time release where it will adversely affect their operations – but we would be astounded if any of the employers used this provision to refuse paid leave under the circumstances.
UNPAID EMERGENCY SERVICES LEAVE
Under the National Employment Standards all members who are not entitled to paid emergency services leave under their EBA are entitled to unpaid leave where they are engaged in a voluntary emergency management activity involving an emergency or natural disaster, including firefighting.
There is no limit on the period of unpaid leave that may be taken.
We expect that reasonable employers will pay members engaged in such activities and will keep you updated.
NOTICE TO THE EMPLOYER
Members should advise their employer as soon as practicable that they will be taking emergency services leave.
Contact the Union at enquiry@msav.org.au if you have any questions. Members who find themselves in hardship due to bushfire related circumstances are welcome to reach out to us and we will provide what assistance we can.
WANT TO HELP?
The bushfire crisis raging across Australia has devastated many communities. The Victorian union movement stands in solidarity with affected communities. Many of the fire fighters, emergency services personnel, health professionals, public servants and countless others who are responding to these fires are rank and file union members.
When people are facing some of their toughest moments, it is our job to do our best to support them.
Many of you having been asking how can we help. Right now the best way that we can assist is by donating whatever you can to the Victorian Government Bushfire Disaster Appeal.
The advice from the Victorian Government is that the community is being flooded with goods and clothes, which shows the great generosity of everyday Australians. Charities have reached their capacity to manage such goods. So donating money is what is being asked.
Donate Here
The fire affected communities will need physical support post this immediate period. That’s why we are also collecting a list of people who can help.
Can you help build a fence, cook and serve food, handle hazardous material, drive a bus/truck or volunteer your time? Fill out this short form and we will call you when the need has been identified.
Volunteer Your Skills
At times like this, the compassion, hard work and solidarity expressed by everyday people, is what will bring us through this fire crisis.
Please contact us and let us know if you have been significantly affected – the Union will be considering how we can best assist members in these circumstances. And we pass on our thanks and appreciation to all MSAV, VPA and AHP members who have been involved in fighting the fires or in emergency relief services, or assisting in any way.
