The NSW Labor Council has thrown its support behind ASU members in opposing competitive tendering in disability advocacy and information services. This will have major industrial and financial ramifications for organisations. ASU members have previously experienced massive upheaval in Federal Government decisions to tender human services. ADD's recent decision is the first example of full competitive tendering for State-funded services in our sector. The Union has since heard that sub-care services may soon be in the same boat.
Independent advocacy is a key part of the work of the non-government community services sector.
Since 1996, the Howard's Federal Government has attacked and de-funded federal advocacy services. ASU members want the NSW Government to retain a commitment to robust community debate by continuing to fund peak disability systemic advocacy services. Labor Council has also sought an urgent meeting with the Minister for Community Services, Faye Lo Po. ASU members will be present at the meeting to put the case to the Minister.