Wednesday, 14 May 2025

Adjournment

Lizzie BLANDTHORN (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Children, Minister for Disability) (17:58): I move:

That the house do now adjourn.

Electorate office staff

Sonja TERPSTRA (North-Eastern Metropolitan) (17:58): (1614) My adjournment matter this evening is directed to the Minister for Industrial Relations. The action I seek is for the minister to encourage the Department of Parliamentary Services to proactively commence preparations for the renegotiation of the electorate officers single enterprise agreement, which is due to expire on 30 June 2025. The formal renegotiation period was scheduled between 20 and 30 January, and it is my understanding that it has not begun due to inaction by the Department of Parliamentary Services.

Electorate officers are the backbone of our parliamentary and electorate officer operations. Without their dedication and essential work for members, regardless of political party, every member in this place knows we would not be able to effectively perform our duties. I take the opportunity to acknowledge my outstanding team: Lucas, Melisa, Ash and Rahn. Their work ensures that I remain across my electorate and communications budget, that my diary and media commitments are managed effectively, that community engagement is maintained and that the vital services, such as food and pet food banks, that we offer continue to operate. They also respond to hundreds, sometimes thousands, of constituent inquiries each and every year. I understand that many electorate officers across all parties are seeking improved conditions in areas such as remuneration, cost-of-living support, job security, recognition of their work and access to the tools and equipment needed to perform their roles effectively.

The Community and Public Sector Union, through its State Public Services Federation Victoria branch, will lead negotiations on behalf of electorate officers. I encourage all electorate officers to consider joining and actively participating in their union to ensure a strong collective voice. Dialogue and goodwill in these negotiations will benefit all members and staff of this Parliament.