PLEASE SIGN ONLY IF YOU ARE A VAHPA MEMBER

As union members deeply committed to the principles of democracy and unity, we are alarmed by the recent actions taken by the Victorian Allied Health Professionals Association (VHAPA) concerning its planned amalgamation with the Health and Community Services Union (HACSU). It appears that this decision is being made without the valuable input of its membership. Transparency, democratic consultation, and member involvement are fundamental tenets that our union has professed to uphold, yet in this crucial instance, these principles are being undermined.

This precarious amalgamation is occurring at a critical juncture – right when enterprise bargaining for VAHPA is set to commence. The bargaining process is a vital platform for us, the allied health professionals of Victoria, to advocate for improved work conditions and to strive for parity with our counterparts across other states. This effort demands our full attention, laser focus, and united front, without the unnecessary distractions or reputational risks posed by an unconsulted, undemocratic merger.

The concern extends beyond internal dynamics; it is about how the union is perceived externally, especially as we approach the bargaining table. Any move that risks the credibility and reputation that we have painstakingly built will inevitably weaken our bargaining power. This isn’t just a procedural issue - it is about our future, strength, and solidarity as a community dedicated to positive change.

We believe in the power derived from unity, shared goals, and mutual respect for the voice of every member. Making unilateral decisions in such an opaque manner significantly threatens the unity that is so essential for achieving our objectives. We must stand together to hold VAHPA accountable to its democratic principles and ensure that our voices, every single one of ours, is heard and considered.

We call on VAHPA leadership to halt any further progression of the amalgamation discussions until a full and inclusive consultation process with all members is conducted. Transparency must be restored, and members' voices must resonate loudly in the decisions that shape our future.

Please join us in demanding that VAHPA adhere to its commitment to democratic processes and truly listen to its members.

Sign this petition to demand VAHPA:

• Immediately pause the planned amalgamation
• Commit to consulting with us - the empowered union they strive to represent - before moving forward with this significant decision
• Do not proceed with any amalgamation without a vote of the membership
• Call a Special General Meeting to keep inform membership of this potential change and address the expressed procedural concerns.

Your signature is crucial in upholding the democratic integrity of our union. SIGN NOW IF YOU ARE A VAHPA MEMBER!

In attaching your signature, you are authenticating that you have read and understood the requests being made in this petition prior to attaching your signature