The purpose of this Circular is to advise you on the NSW public sector consideration of Federal Government's Work for the Dole Scheme. As you are aware the Federal Government's Work for the Dole Scheme has been announced and is being implemented. A number of NSW public sector organisations are affected by arrangements under this Scheme and have sought advice to aid them in the consideration of this issue. It is important that your organisation consider any arrangements in full consultation with the NSW public sector unions which cover the classifications of staff within your organisation and are affected by these arrangements. Key considerations are: 1. Impact on existing work arrangements No staff should be displaced or vacancies remain unfilled as a result of the Work for the Dole arrangements. The work to be undertaken under these arrangements will require supervision and support. 2. Funding Consultation with your organisation's Treasury contact should be undertaken to ensure that there is no impact on Federal/State funding arrangements. 3. Additional costs It is understood that the cost of labour will be met under the Work for the Dole Scheme. Any additional costs of undertaking the Work for the Dole projects eg. equipment and materials are to be met within your organisation's existing resources and not be diverted away from meeting your Corporate goals and objectives. 4. Other employment programs A planned approach is required to ensure the integration of the Work for the Dole, other employment programs and the work of the organisation. Through a planned process it may be possible to enhance the skills of the Work for the Dole participants and to identify further employment opportunities. David Clark of the Premier's Department, Public Sector Management Office may be contacted on telephone number (02) 9228 3531 or by email on [email protected] on this matter. Yours sincerely C GellatlyDirector-General