VAHPA’s Public Sector Bargaining Campaign is continuing to gain momentum across Victoria, with growing media attention highlighting the critical issues facing Allied Health Professionals in the public health system.
Over recent weeks, VAHPA representatives and members have featured across major media platforms, including radio interviews and coverage in the Herald Sun, helping shine a spotlight on the workforce pressures, staffing shortages, workload concerns and pay inequities impacting Allied Health Professionals statewide.
Members are taking action
The media attention comes as bargaining negotiations continue for Victoria’s new Public Sector Enterprise Agreement, covering more than 13,000 Allied Health Professionals working across metropolitan and regional health services.
VAHPA Executive Officer Andrew Hewat told media outlets that Allied Health Professionals are increasingly frustrated after months of bargaining without a formal government offer being put forward. The campaign has highlighted the essential role Allied Health Professionals play throughout the healthcare system — from physiotherapists, radiographers and occupational therapists to speech pathologists, social workers, sonographers and many more.
As reported in the Herald Sun coverage, VAHPA members overwhelmingly voted in favour of industrial action, with more than 98 per cent support across participating health services.
What VAHPA is Fighting for
The campaign is not just about wages. VAHPA continues to advocate for:
- Safe staffing and manageable workloads
- Stronger attraction and retention measures
- Fair career progression pathways
- Recognition of Allied Health’s professional value
- Action on gender-based undervaluation across the sector
VAHPA has consistently argued that Allied Health Professionals are an essential pillar of the Victorian healthcare system, yet many members continue to face increasing workloads, workforce shortages and real wage decline pressures.
The growing public attention demonstrates that the message is cutting through. Every media appearance, interview and member action helps raise awareness of the challenges facing Allied Health and the importance of securing meaningful outcomes in this round of bargaining.
“People don’t really know what we do until we don’t do it,”
Andrew Hewat said during recent media coverage.
Andrew was also featured on 3CR radio, click below for that segment discussing Allied Health (9 minute interview).
Thank you!
VAHPA thanks all members who have participated in campaign activities, workplace meetings and media opportunities as momentum continues to build across the state.
Members are encouraged to stay engaged, keep an eye on campaign updates, and continue supporting workplace actions as bargaining progresses.
Source – Herald Sun, 3CR Radio