Page 499 - Week 02 - Wednesday, 19 February 2020
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Contrary to the repeated incorrect claims of the opposition, I can advise members that no cleaner previously employed by a contractor who expressed interest in direct employment with the government was declined this opportunity due to visa issues. If a cleaner was legally entitled to work in Australia within their visa conditions, they had the opportunity to be employed by the ACT government.
Secure employment with the government in fact contributes to visa holders and refugees being accepted within the broader community.
The government is now also able to take steps to better value this workforce. For example, cleaners have access to career pathways through ongoing public sector employment. This will be supported by individualised plans that provide the opportunity to obtain recognised skills or to transition into other roles within the ACT public service.
Cleaning staff are valued for the contributions they make to providing high quality learning institutions. They are an important and valued part of the school community, and they also add incredible value to the school environment.
MR GUPTA: Minister, how will this change benefit the ACT community?
MS BERRY: I thank Mr Gupta for the supplementary question. The ACT government values the work of cleaners in our schools. Cleaning is important. It provides students, teachers and other staff with comfortable and safe workplaces to learn and work. Insourcing cleaning services means better value for money. Members should know that ethical, industrially compliant employment is required for the territory to get good value for money.
This change also means more flexibility in how cleaning services are delivered. The schools cleaning service will provide schools with an integrated cleaning program addressing cleaning needs. Site-specific cleaning plans have been developed in consultation with schools to ensure that the needs of each site are met. These plans identify daily, weekly, quarterly and annual cleaning services. Staff management, including managing unplanned leave arrangements, is now coordinated centrally, meaning a more effective service across the school system.
The government is also enhancing inclusion in our community. This is an extremely diverse workforce, many of whom are migrants or refugees. Around 93 per cent identify as not speaking English as their first language. A large number of these workers are from the S’gaw Karen people now living here after fleeing conflict in Myanmar. There is also a cohort of Iranian refugees and some who are Bhutanese migrants. Securing good jobs for these people where they are respected and treated fairly will make an important contribution to continuing our shared commitment to embracing and celebrating cultural diversity.
Mr Barr: I ask that all further questions be placed on the notice paper.
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