The purpose of this Circular is to advise Chief Executives of Public Service Departments on options available in considering the implementation of the outcomes of job evaluation where the work has not changed and yet is evaluated at a higher level.

In certain circumstances approval may be given to the current occupant of a position being paid by way of allowance where the work has not changed substantially but job evaluation (using one of the three accredited systems Hay, OCR and CED) indicates a higher salary level for the same work, and the current occupant is performing satisfactorily in the position. It is also subject to the existing occupant of the position having been appointed following a process of competitive merit selection (albeit to the pre-job evaluation level). Where the work has changed substantially or the position falls vacant the position should be filled by merit selection.

This allowance is deemed to be part of ordinary pay, that is, to be in the nature of salary. It will be recognised for all purposes, e.g. superannuation, all leave including recreation and extended leave and will allow for salary progression on the same basis as appointment to the higher grade. The total salary i.e. salary at current grade plus allowance will be the salary basis for transfer to other positions, redeployment to another position and for any period of salary maintenance.

The payment of this allowance is an option available for consideration in light of the particular circumstances. The allowance is subject to my approval on a case by case basis, pursuant to section 63(1) of the Public Sector Management Act 1988. Alternatively the position may be advertised in the Public Service Notices or Press in accordance with established practice. Recommendations for payment by way of allowances in the circumstances outlined above may be forwarded to the Public Sector Management Office.

Please inform relevant staff within your Department of the contents of this Circular.

If you require any further information please contact Elizabeth Casey on telephone number (02) 9228 3564.

C. Gellatly
Director-General