In 2004 the state government agreed to a new classification structure for Allied Health workers. When the new job descriptors were released, there was a realisation (across the state) that my profession actually met the level above the one at which we’d been placed. Thus, we began the long and frustrating process of applying for a classification upgrade.

Of course, one of the problems with this, is that along with an upgrade being a recognition of the work we actually do… we’d be entitled to a significant pay rise. The department I work for is, naturally, opposed to this, and the HR goons along with our regional management, are placing every hurdle possible in our way in an attempt to thwart us. Mostly it’s been about trying to use intimidation tactics, but they’ve also made the process incredibly difficult, in the hope that we’ll be put off and go away.

The result of this is that we are now appealing management’s rejection of our upgrade… and each worker has to appear individually before a tripartite panel. The panel consists of a HR representative from the department, a union representative, and an independant Industrial Relations chairperson. From all accounts thus far, the hearing lasts a couple of hours, and has been likened to a very gruelling job interview.

My hearing is this Wednesday. I’m not looking forward to it at all… and am worried that I’m not going to be prepared enough. Aaaaargh!