UNIVERSITY OF BALLARAT STAFF MAY BE UNDERPAID BY $200 PER WEEK OR MORE
MEDIA RELEASE
27 April 2007
The NTEU believes that the University of Ballarat (UB) may be
underpaying over 25% of its general staff, with estimates that
some staff are being underpaid by $200 per week or more.
“Our analysis of UB’s classification of general staff
shows an unusually high number of staff on lower classifications
than at other universities,” NTEU UB Branch General Staff
Vice-President Deb Lord said today.
“This is reinforced by information and experiences reported to us by our members. As a consequence we will be seeking a review of many staff classifications.”
The estimated 400 general staff employed by the University include library, IT, administrative and technical staff employed in supporting the work of students and academic staff.
The NTEU’s research shows that the University has a much higher proportion of such staff on lower grades (HEW3 or below) than other Victorian universities, and a much lower proportion of staff at higher grades (HEW 6 or above).
“The majority of those affected are women and this is a particular concern to the Branch,” Ms Lord said.
“As general staff in particular take on more complex tasks, often tasks previously done by academic staff, the University is failing to recognise and reward these higher skill levels. The University is trading heavily on the goodwill of its lowest paid staff members”.
The NTEU will be holding meetings around the campus to hear from staff about issues of undervaluing and underpayment of work, and will then raise the matter with University management.
Failing a satisfactory outcome, the union is prepared to go to the Industrial Relations Commission or the Courts to ensure staff are receiving their correct entitlements.
For further information and comment:
NTEU UB Branch Vice-President (General) Deb Lord 0429 334 938
NTEU Victorian Division Secretary Matthew McGowan 0417 054 110
Media enquiries:
NTEU Communications Officer Michael Evans 0418 241 664