June 2003

Consultation key to merger proposal

A Department of Human Services proposal to merge administrative services in its Western and Northern Metropolitan Regions will be considered by the State Government as part of a full and open consultation process, says Minister for Health Bronwyn Pike.

Ms Pike emphasised that any changes to the structure of the Department would not involve forced redundancies or reductions in existing levels of client services in the regions’ hospitals, non-government agencies and in the Department generally.

She said the two regions shared a common boundary and many common characteristics and combining their resources and expertise were likely to help improve services to clients.

‘The proposed merger would also reduce administrative costs associated with management and overheads.

‘The Department is absolutely committed to a full consultation process with staff and unions as it works through these important issues.’

Ms Pike said the Department was constantly evaluating its administrative structure to ensure its growing range of services was delivered as efficiently and effectively as possible.

‘This proposal is being developed as part of that process.’

She said the merger proposal was still being developed by the Department.

‘There is a view that service planning could be more effective for these growing communities if done as a whole.’

Ms Pike said the two regions have a culturally and linguistically diverse population and a merger could provide for a more expert and consistent approach to cultural issues.

‘Both regions also have significant services for people with disabilities and a merger could enable the development of specialist expertise.’

Ms Pike said the head offices of the two regions—Footscray and Fitzroy—were within six kilometres of the central business district and just eight kilometres from each other.

‘This means the Department can easily merge administrative functions.

‘But I can assure the people of the north and west that the Department has committed to maintaining a comprehensive range of services and facilities in both regions.’