Following representations raised in response to member concerns last week, Telstra contacted National Secretary Shane Murphy late on Friday afternoon to advise it would withdraw the contentious “Declaration of Understanding” requirement.
This is an important win for members. The declaration would have forced employees to agree with Telstra’s classification position before being allowed access to fibre maintenance and construction training or performing this work. The Union made it clear this approach was unacceptable, undermined the EBA and a recent court decision, along with what we claimed would pre-empt the outcome of the Core Jobs Classification Review.
What Does This Mean for You?
- Telstra will cease using the declaration immediately.
- There is no requirement for employees to agree to Telstra’s classification or banding positions as a condition of training.
- Members who refused to sign will not suffer any detriment.
This outcome shows the importance of standing together and challenging practices that compromise fair classification and consultation processes.
Thank you to all members who raised concerns and supported the Union’s efforts.
We will continue to keep you updated on the Core Jobs Classification Review and any related developments.
In the meantime, if you are still being asked to sign this declaration or face any threat to your employment for refusing, please contact Branch Assistant Secretaries Cameron Bird, Peter Chaloner, Barry McVee or Nick Towsend, or Branch Officials Cade Anderson, Lisa Bahls, Peter O’Connell, Brett O’Neill or Clinton Thomas on (02) 9893 7822 when calling from NSW or the ACT, (07) 3255 0440 from QLD, (08) 9227 9911 from WA or (08) 8443 7389 from SA or the NT.
Comments are closed.
