Enterprise bargaining agreement (EBA) is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of employment for workers in a particular industry or workplace. In Queensland, the health sector is regulated by the Queensland Health Enterprise Bargaining Agreement (EB) 2019.
The EB 2019 is an agreement between the Queensland Government and the Queensland Nurses and Midwives Union (QNMU). It covers a wide range of health workers, including nurses, midwives, allied health professionals, administrative and support staff.
The agreement outlines a series of improvements in wages, conditions, and benefits for Queensland Health staff. It includes annual pay increases, higher allowances, and improvements to work-life balance, including flexible working arrangements.
One of the key features of the EB 2019 is the introduction of a new classification structure for nurses and midwives. The new structure recognizes the qualifications and experience of staff and provides a clear pathway for career progression. This will assist in retaining experienced staff and attracting new talent.
The agreement also prioritizes the recruitment and retention of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people with disabilities, to ensure that the workforce represents the diversity of the Queensland community.
Furthermore, the EB 2019 includes a commitment to improving work safety and minimizing the risk of workplace aggression and violence. This is particularly important for staff working in emergency departments and mental health services.
The agreement also provides improved access to professional development opportunities for staff, including training in digital health technologies. This investment in staff development will ensure that workers have the necessary skills to keep pace with changes in healthcare delivery.
In conclusion, the Queensland Health Enterprise Bargaining Agreement (EB) 2019 is a positive step towards improving the working conditions of health workers in Queensland. It provides fair wages, better work-life balance, and career development opportunities. The agreement is an example of the Queensland Government`s commitment to investing in its workforce and delivering high-quality healthcare services to the people of Queensland.
