Child protection workers across Western Australia will now receive higher pay and better conditions under a new industrial agreement that came into effect on Wednesday.
The agreement, backed by the Cook Labor Government and the CPS/CSA delivers salary increases and improved career opportunities for frontline workers. These staff are now officially recognised as Child Safety Practitioners.
Earlier this year, workers overwhelmingly supported the Government’s offer to create a separate industrial agreement for the child protection workforce. The WA Industrial Relations Commission has now registered the agreement following a formal hearing.
The agreement includes salary scale uplifts, better working conditions, and more support for career development. It also makes it easier to enter the field, with increased pay for entry-level roles, broader qualification options, and a new qualifications allowance.
Industrial Relations Minister Simone McGurk said the new agreement would help attract and retain staff.
“The Cook Labor Government in partnership with the CPSU/CSA has delivered on a new standalone Industrial Agreement to attract and retain more frontline workers to the child protection workforce,” she said.
“Child Safety Practitioners play a vital role in supporting some of Western Australia’s most vulnerable children and young people, and these salary and classification structure improvements recognise the skill and value of this workforce.”
Child Protection Minister Jessica Stojkovski said the agreement builds on the State Government’s record investment in child protection.
“The new agreement complements the Cook Government’s record investment in the child protection system to keep more children and young people safe and supported.”
The Cook Government has also committed $30.9 million to hire 55 more Child Safety Practitioners and offer incentives for those willing to work in regional areas.
