Apunipima Cape York Health Council is a community-controlled health service that provides comprehensive primary health care services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in Cape York, Queensland, Australia. The organization is committed to improving the health and wellbeing of its community through a range of healthcare services. As such, Apunipima has recently signed a new Enterprise Agreement, which is expected to have a significant impact on its operations.
An Enterprise Agreement, commonly referred to as an EBA, is an agreement between an employer and its employees that sets out the terms and conditions of employment. The agreement covers a range of issues, including wages, hours of work, leave entitlements, and other benefits. It is negotiated between the employer and representatives of the employees, usually a trade union.
The new Enterprise Agreement signed by Apunipima covers its employees, who are primarily based in remote locations across Cape York. The agreement is expected to provide improved conditions of employment, which will help to attract and retain staff, and ultimately improve the quality of care provided to the local community.
One of the key changes in the new Enterprise Agreement is the introduction of a new classification structure. This new structure will provide greater clarity and consistency in job classifications and remuneration. It will also ensure that employees are appropriately compensated for their qualifications and experience. This change is particularly important for Apunipima, as it will help to address the high staff turnover rates experienced in remote communities.
The new agreement also includes improved leave entitlements, including an additional five days of annual leave for long-term employees. This will give employees more time to rest and recuperate, and ultimately improve their wellbeing.
Other changes in the agreement include improved rostering arrangements, the introduction of a health and wellbeing allowance, and the inclusion of cultural leave. These changes are all designed to improve the working conditions of Apunipima employees and support their wellbeing.
In conclusion, the new Enterprise Agreement signed by Apunipima is an important development for the organization and its employees. The agreement will provide improved conditions of employment, which will help to attract and retain staff, and ultimately improve the quality of care provided to the local community. As a community-controlled health service, Apunipima is committed to providing the best possible healthcare services to its community, and this new Enterprise Agreement is an important step towards achieving that goal.