Prison officers have voted overwhelmingly to accept a new pay deal. Photo: File.
The West Australian Prison Officers’ Union says more than 94 per cent of its members have voted to accept the State Government’s wages policy, with backpay to 11 June 2022.
Prison officers will receive a wage increase of $60 per week or three per cent with a $3000 cost of living payment.
A spokesperson said prison officers would benefit from enhanced overtime arrangements and meal break provisions under the agreement.
Industrial Relations Minister Bill Johnston welcomed the news.
“The Cook Government is pleased prison officers have endorsed the offer and I commend the union for their commitment to reaching this positive outcome,” he said.
“We continue to engage positively with unions and are working towards settlement of all outstanding negotiations.”
Officers employed at some regional prisons will now receive the regional incentive allowance on periods of leave to support attraction and retention in the regions.
A new entitlement, compassionate leave for parents experiencing early pregnancy loss, and leave to support registered foster carers have also been introduced.
Negotiated outcomes have now been secured for 44 industrial agreements that cover more than 140,000 employees, representing almost 90 per cent of public sector workers.
