A CLEAR CASE FOR CHANGE IN CPSU LEADERSHIP
Since launching our campaign, we’ve been listening to members.
One of the key ways we’ve done that is through our survey, which asked CPSU members how they feel about their union leadership.
The results are now in, and they paint a clear picture: members are frustrated, disillusioned, and ready for change.
The numbers tell the story
Out of 126 respondents, 121 were union members. Even among the five non-members who took the survey, the reasons for their lack of union involvement should be a wake-up call for leadership:
- Lack of workplace visibility—some felt like they had no union representation at all.
- Poor support during Clause 11 restructures, making membership feel like poor value for money.
- A perception that the union is ineffective, unresponsive, and disconnected from members’ concerns.
But the most damning feedback comes from those still in the union.
Some members reported they had considered leaving because they felt the union wasn’t delivering real value.
Others rejoined only out of necessity, citing strength in numbers rather than satisfaction with CPSU’s performance.
Campaign effectiveness: a harsh verdict
When asked about the effectiveness of CPSU campaigns, the responses were overwhelmingly negative:
- Many couldn’t even name a union campaign outside of EBA negotiations.
- Communications were described as confusing, opaque, and out of touch.
- There’s little to no consultation with members on strategy or priorities.
- The CPSU leadership is seen as too close to the ALP, making them reluctant to challenge government policies that hurt members.
Yes, we got a pay rise, but systemic issues like workload, bullying, consultant overuse, and poor management remain unchallenged.
Leadership’s response? An occasional email linking to EAP.
Not good enough.
Another noted:
The union does barely any recruitment, membership is shrinking, and leadership has failed to challenge the 3% wage cap.
Communications are out of date, and they’re not speaking to today’s public sector workers.
What needs to change?
We asked members what areas of union activity need the most improvement. The top concerns were:
- Democratic processes (72%)
- Accountability and transparency (71%)
- Advocacy on workplace issues (69%)
- Communication with members (68%)
- Allowing members to discuss taking industrial action (59%)
- Organising and recruitment (57%)
And when asked what they wanted from new leadership, the number one answer was greater member participation, followed closely by transparency and accountability.
A message to CPSU leadership: this is why you’re being challenged
To the current CPSU leadership: these survey results should come as no surprise. Members feel unheard, unsupported, and sidelined in key decisions. The union is seen as reactive rather than proactive, disconnected from the realities of workplaces, and unwilling to fight for the things that matter most.
Our campaign exists because members want a CPSU that is democratic, accountable, and member-driven. The status quo isn’t working. This election is happening because members have had enough. They want a union that will:
- Stand up to government attacks on public sector workers, not make excuses for them.
- Empower members to take action, not just mobilise them during EBAs.
- Rebuild trust and transparency, so members feel like they have a voice in their own union.
- Strengthen workplace organising, so every member has real representation and support.
If the current leadership is wondering why there’s a challenge this time, here’s the answer: members are demanding better.
And A Voice For Members is here to make sure they get it.
MEMBER PROFILE – KATE
What’s your name?
Kate Clifford
How long have you been in the union?
Since 2019.
Where do you work and what do you do?
Senior policy advisor at Dept Health.
Why did you join A Voice For Members?
I’m keen to help build the membership and promote democratic decision making. I’ve been frustrated by the lack of visible action on job losses over the last couple of years.
What’s your vision for the CPSU?
A union that’s ready to stand up for public servants and the work we do.
WHAT’S ON
AVFM General Meeting
Monday 24 February 6:30PM
Collingwood Library Meeting Room
11 Stanton St, Abbotsford 3067
This meeting has been held, thank you to all who attended!