Arcare Queensland workers have rallied over a payment issue that has left staff members having to repay up to thousands of dollars each.
The issue arose when workers were given back pay following negotiation of a new Enterprise Agreement; however, processing and payment errors resulted in overpayments to many staff members, with many unaware that they had received the incorrect amount as it was paid in a lump sum.
“In a highly regrettable circumstance, due to a systems related issue, there have been errors made in processing back payment in the payroll system,” an Arcare spokesperson told The Weekly SOURCE.
“Arcare is working with individuals on a solution to correct the miscalculation.”
Queensland Nurses and Midwives’ Union (QNMU) workers rallied in Taigum and Hope Island this week against what they called “Grinch-like” behaviour on the part of Arcare management. QNMU Assistant Secretary Kate Veach (pictured) said the provider had previously demanded staff begin repayments before Christmas, but backed down after pressure from the union.
“We know from past experience with payroll errors that members should be very cautious about entering into repayment arrangements quickly, without having an opportunity to properly check the sums and work out a repayment plan that is manageable and will not cause financial strain.
“This is Arcare’s mismanagement, it’s their error – yet it is our members, some of the most poorly paid workers in healthcare, who are the ones being treated callously with demanding letters and unreasonable repayment timeframes,” she said.
