Staff paid at lower levels than they are classified

[megs_95]

A few staff in my centre have mentioned to me that they hold a diploma and are being paid as Cert III because the centre "doesn't need" any more diploma staff. They aren't studying their diploma - they already have it. Is this allowed in any way? It seems ridiculous to me that someone can be paid at a lower level than they are classified because the centre says their training level isn't needed.

[Lorina]

In the Children's Services Award it states:

A Level 3 employee at this level who has completed a Diploma in Children’s Services or equivalent, and who demonstrates the application of skills and knowledge acquired beyond the competencies required for a Certificate III in the ongoing performance of their work, must be paid no less than the rate prescribed for Level 3.4.

A Level 3 employee is:

This is an employee who has completed AQF Certificate III in Children's Services or an equivalent qualification or, alternatively, this employee will possess, in the opinion of the employer, sufficient knowledge or experience to perform the duties at this level. An employee appointed at this level will also undertake the same duties and perform the same tasks as a CSE Level 2.

Indicative duties:

Assist in the preparation, implementation and evaluation of developmentally appropriate programs for individual children or groups.
Record observations of individual children or groups for program planning purposes for qualified staff.
Under direction, work with individual children with particular needs.
Assist in the direction of untrained staff.
Undertake and implement the requirements of quality assurance.
Work in accordance with food safety regulations.

So basically, if a diploma qualified has an assistant position (not a room leader) they cannot be paid less than a level 3.4 which is a minimum hourly rate of $21.47/.

You can find the info in the following articles available in our Wiki in Childcare Articles.

Levels For Childcare Wages
Childcare Wages In Australia

Hope this gives you enough information,

,
L.A