Geelong council cuts: 19 jobs to go to save more than $1m

The union representing Geelong council workers who could lose their jobs in a shake up want an extension to the consultation period on the proposed cuts.

The Australian Services Union protested cuts to Geelong council jobs at the Geelong West Town Hall on Wednesday prior to the council meeting. Picture: Mark Wilson

The union representing Geelong council workers who could lose their jobs in a shake-up aimed at saving council money will ask for an extension to the consultation period on the proposed cuts.

It is understood 19 staff from the community life department could lose jobs, with roles potentially to be made redundant including a social equity policy officer, social housing officer and multicultural diversity policy officer.

The Australian Services Union (ASU) protested cuts to the council jobs at Geelong West Town Hall on Wednesday before the council meeting.

ASU organiser Sean McCourt wants the consultation period on the redundancies extended until the first week of May.

“These jobs really are connected to the community in a way that they provide essential services to vulnerable people, whether that be aged care, gender violence, gender equality, the homeless and (those struggling with) drug and alcohol (abuse),” he said.

Geelong region state MPs Christine Couzens, left, and Darren Cheeseman, right, attend a union protest outside the Geelong West town hall after council flagged cutting 19 jobs. Picture: Mark Wilson

“Why would you attack a group of workers who provide those essential services?”

Mr McCourt said the union wanted access to a report the council had prepared on the community life department that informed the decision on the proposed redundancies.

Acting City of Greater Geelong chief executive Kaarina Phyland said the proposed changes were the result of a 2½ -year process.

“With our services and budget under enormous pressure, we need to ensure we continue to be financially sustainable, become more efficient and effective, and further improve how we serve the community,” she said.

“Hearing from employees is an essential part of our change process. We extended the initial two-week consultation period by more than a week to April 28, for some of our people.

“We’ve received significant feedback during this time, which is now being considered.”

“Given the changes are not yet finalised, we’re not in a position to provide further details.”

The ASU was due to meet representatives from the City of Greater Geelong on Thursday afternoon.

Originally published as Geelong council cuts: 19 jobs to go to save more than $1m