Lort Smith Enterprise Bargaining Agreement: What It Means for Employees

In 2018, Lort Smith Animal Hospital in Melbourne, Australia, negotiated a new enterprise bargaining agreement (EBA) with its employees. The EBA outlines the terms and conditions of employment for staff, including pay rates, working hours, and other benefits.

For employees at Lort Smith, the new EBA offers several advantages. It includes a 3% annual pay increase over the three years of the agreement, which will help to keep up with the rising cost of living. This increase is in addition to any other wage increases that may be awarded based on performance or other factors.

The EBA also provides more flexibility in working hours for employees, including the option to take more frequent breaks during the day. Additionally, there are provisions for better job security, with stronger protections against dismissal without proper cause.

The new EBA also includes provisions for better work-life balance, including more paid leave and flexible arrangements for managing family and care responsibilities. This is particularly important for employees who work in the animal welfare sector, as the work can be physically and emotionally demanding.

For Lort Smith Animal Hospital as an organization, the EBA helps to create a more stable and supportive work environment. The provisions for job security and work-life balance can help to reduce staff turnover and improve employee morale, leading to better outcomes for both patients and staff.

Overall, the Lort Smith Enterprise Bargaining Agreement is a positive step for employees at Lort Smith Animal Hospital. It provides the flexibility, security, and support necessary for staff to thrive in their roles and deliver high-quality care to the animals they serve.