On 1 September 2023, the Victorian Government launched the Fair Jobs Code for the Community Services sector. The Fair Jobs Code is a series of standards relating to:
- compliance with applicable workplace obligations;
- promoting secure employment and job security;
- fostering cooperative relationships between employers, employees and their representatives; and
- promoting workplace equity and diversity.
Community service organisations receiving $2 million or more per year in government funding from any Department will need to comply with the Code as a condition of that funding. The code will come into effect from 1 August 2024. Organisations can find more detailed information about the Code on the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing website.
Under this deal, there will also be a 5.45% funding boost this financial year for organisations funded by the Victorian Government. The funding formula for calculating this boost will account for obligations imposed by Fair Work (80% of the increase) and CPI increases (20%). This formula will be used to calculate community sector funding increases for 2023-24 and beyond.
CHIA Victoria welcomes this initial step towards greater funding security for the community services sector. We acknowledge that some but not all community housing organisations will be impacted by this change, and will be working closely with members and the Victorian Government over the next 12 months to understand how this change impacts community housing organisations and what supports are required for organisations to comply with the Code.
Please feel free to reach out to CHIA Vic at admin@chiavic.com.au with any issues or questions.