The Police Association is planning to revise its final offer in a dispute over police pay following a decision by an arbitration panel. Officers are upset about the move, fearing that it will result in more staff leaving the country.
In April, over 75% of voting union members rejected the government’s proposed deal, which included a flat $5000 pay increase for officers and an additional 4% increase in July and again in 2025.
Vicki Campbell, an employment law specialist, was appointed to lead an arbitration panel that began deliberations last month to determine which of the final offers from the government and the Police Association would be accepted.
The association received an email notifying them of the change in direction, and President Chris Cahill stated that the panel had given both parties six days to adjust or restate their final positions.
However, the email did not specify how the offer would be changed.
A police officer called for Chris Cahill to resign, claiming that the move was a betrayal of the association’s members and expressing frustration about the six-day period given to consider the new situation.
Another officer, with more than 10 years on the force, said that the move would result in more police officers seeking opportunities abroad.
Frustration over the protracted process was not limited to the Police Association, as some officers believed the association lacked power and influence.
They also voiced discontent about the fact that their counterparts in Australia are paid $40,000 a year more than them.
A spokesperson for the Police Association declined to comment, stating that it would be “totally inappropriate” while the matter was before the arbitrator.
