The Federation University Enterprise Agreement (EA) is a crucial document that outlines employment terms and conditions for academic and professional staff at Federation University Australia. The EA covers issues such as working hours, leave entitlements, remuneration, and professional development.
Negotiations for the latest round of the Federation University EA began in 2020, with the university and the National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) representing staff. Both parties engaged in consultations, discussions, and negotiations to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
One of the critical issues for staff was job security, given the uncertainty brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The EA addresses this concern by offering a guarantee of no forced redundancies for the life of the agreement, which is four years.
Another crucial aspect of the Federation University EA is the provision for a salary increase. The agreement guarantees a 2% increase in salaries for each year of the four-year agreement. This increase will see staff receive a well-deserved pay rise, which is necessary given the rising cost of living.
The EA also includes provisions for flexible work arrangements, such as part-time work, job sharing, and working from home. These flexible arrangements will go a long way in helping staff achieve a good work-life balance and maintain their mental health and wellbeing.
In terms of leave entitlements, the Federation University EA offers staff a range of leave types to cater to various needs. These include annual leave, personal leave, parental leave, and carer’s leave. This ensures that staff can take time off work to attend to personal and family needs.
The federation university enterprise agreement also provides for professional development opportunities for staff. This is critical to maintaining staff motivation and ensuring that they remain up-to-date with the latest developments in their fields.
Overall, the Federation University EA is a vital document that outlines employment terms and conditions for staff. It provides job security, fair remuneration, and flexible work arrangements, among other provisions. Staff at Federation University can rest assured that they are covered by a comprehensive and fair agreement that will support their employment needs for the next four years.
