CAMPAIGNS
Enterprise Agreement (EA)
Update on the AFP Enterprise Agreement
The Australian Federal Police Association (AFPA) is committed to protecting our members and their workplace entitlements concerning the Australian Federal Police (AFP) 2024-2027 Enterprise Agreement (EA). As a cornerstone of employment conditions, the EA governs pay, working conditions, and various entitlements for AFP employees. This update provides an overview of the current status and our ongoing advocacy efforts to secure fair and equitable outcomes for all members.
Background
The AFP Enterprise Agreement serves as the primary framework for employment conditions across the organisation. It defines remuneration, leave entitlements, workplace flexibility, and other crucial aspects that underpin the wellbeing and professional satisfaction of AFP employees. Ensuring that this agreement is fair and reflective of the demands faced by our members is a top priority for the AFPA.
History of Negotiations
Negotiations for the 2024-2027 EA commenced in September 2023, with the AFPA representing the interests of members at every stage. Our key points for discussion that we took into negotiations included:
- Remuneration: Advocating for salary increases that align with the high-risk and high-stakes nature of AFP roles, particularly in light of inflation and the cost of living.
- Workplace Flexibility: Ensuring that members have access to flexible working arrangements that balance operational needs with personal commitments.
- Health and Wellbeing: Strengthening provisions for mental health support, recognising the unique pressures faced by law enforcement personnel.
- Career Progression: Promoting a clearer and more equitable framework for career development and progression opportunities.
Key Challenges
One of the significant challenges in these negotiations is balancing the operational priorities of the AFP with the legitimate needs and expectations of its workforce. While the AFPA acknowledges the budgetary constraints faced by the government, we remained steadfast in our belief that investment in the workforce is critical to maintaining the AFP’s effectiveness and morale.
Our Advocacy
The AFPA has taken a proactive approach in representing members, including:
- Conducting member surveys to ensure that negotiations reflect the priorities of the workforce.
- Engaging with government stakeholders to highlight the importance of competitive pay and conditions in attracting and retaining talent.
- Hosting information sessions and providing regular updates to keep members informed and engaged in the process.
Next Steps
The AFPA continued to negotiate in good faith for over 12 months to achieve the best possible outcomes for members. Unfortunately, the Federal Government and Australian Public Service Commission have little understanding of the work our members do in protecting the community. Given this, we will continue to work towards the 2027-2030 EA with a clear objective to improve workplace conditions for all members.
Have Your Say
Your voice is critical to shaping the future of the AFP. We encourage all members to stay engaged, attend musters, and provide feedback on the issues that matter most to you. Together, we can ensure that the 2027-2030 EA reflects the value and dedication of AFP personnel.
For further information or to share your views, please contact the AFPA office via afpa@afpa.org.au, or fill out the below message box.
Your involvement strengthens our collective position and ensures your concerns are heard at the highest levels.
The AFPA remains committed to securing an enterprise agreement that respects and rewards the dedication of all AFP employees. We thank you for your ongoing support and look forward to continuing our work together.
EA Event Timeline
- 11th April, 2021
The Australian Federal Police Executive Level Enterprise Agreement 2019 – 2021 passed its Nominal Expiry date.
- 24th May, 2021
The Australian Federal Police Enterprise Agreement 2017 – 2020 passed its Nominal Expiry date.
- 2nd September, 2023
The AFPA issued a demand notice on the AFP requiring them to commence bargaining pursuant to s17374(2A) of the Fair Work Act 2009.
- 15th September, 2023
The AFP issued a Notice Of Employee Representational Rights to all employees covered by the proposed agreement.
- 26th September, 2023
Bargaining commenced on 26 September 2023, and 6 meetings were held up to 31 October 2023, after which the AFP suspended bargaining until 6 February 2024.
- 3rd November, 2023
The AFPA submitted its log of claims for the new Enterprise Agreement to the AFP.
On 6 February 2024 bargaining meetings recommenced. - 6th February, 2024
Bargaining meetings recommenced.
- 14th February, 2024
The AFPA filed an application for Protected Industrial Action in the
Fair Work Commission. - 20th February, 2024
The AFPA attended a Protected Action Ballot hearing in the Fair Work Commission.
- 21st February, 2024
The Fair Work Commission issued a Protected Action Ballot Order, allowing the AFPA’s members to vote on protected industrial action.
- 8th March, 2024
The results for the ballot were declared, with 96.7% of those who voted voting in favour of Protected Industrial Action.
- 5th July, 2024
The AFPA filed a second application for Protected Industrial Action in the Fair Work Commission, which was unopposed by the AFP. And the Fair Work Commission issued a Protected Action Ballot Order, allowing the AFPA’s members to vote on protected industrial action.
- 23rd July, 2024
The results for the ballot were declared, with 96.8% of those who voted voting in favour of Protected Industrial Action.
- 27th and 28th August, 2024
AFPA members walked off the job at Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, Darwin, and Perth airports, and stations in the ACT for the first time in the AFP’s history.
- 11th September, 2024
AFPA members once again walked off the job at Parliament House and stations in the ACT.
- 17th October, 2024
AFP release offer and EA fact sheet
- 17th October, 2024
Last EA bargaining meeting
- 31st October, 2024
AFP release proposed Enterprise Agreement
- 1st November, 2024
Seven day access period commenced
- 8th November, 2024
Vote Opens
- 15th November, 2024
Vote Closes
- 18th November, 2024
Results for the Vote is announced
Contact Us
Media enquiries
Email Address
media@afpa.org.auInterviews & Statements
Email Address
media@afpa.org.auGeneral enquiries
Email Address
afpa@afpa.org.au