10 November 2011
NCOSS welcomes the announcement today by Prime Minister, The Hon Julia Gillard, MP to commit $2billion over 6 years to fund equal pay for workers who work with some of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable people in our communities.

The Federal Government and unions have agreed to make a joint submission in the Community Services Sector equal pay case which could see community sector workers get significant pay rises. By committing to fund their fair share, the Federal Government has recognised the importance of the sector and its workforce in delivering support and services to those who need it.

NCOSS Director, Alison Peters said, "This is a significant development in what has been a long process. Now we need the NSW Government to commit to funding their fair share and to allocate money to do this."

"This would allow organisations in the sector to provide fair and equal pay for workers while ensuring that adequate funding is delivered in a way which develops and supports quality services for the people and communities that rely on them," Ms Peters said.

Contact: Alison Peters, mobile 0425 231 814

The Council of Social Service of NSW (NCOSS) is the peak body for the social and community services sector in New South Wales. NCOSS works with its members on behalf of disadvantaged people and communities towards achieving social justice in NSW. NCOSS provides an independent voice on welfare policy issues and social and economic reforms. It is the major coordinator for non-government social and community services in NSW.