The purpose of this circular is to assure agencies that the granting of Job Search Leave of up to 12 weeks remains an option for employing organisations, where appropriate.

Job Search Leave is not part of the voluntary redundancy package.

Recent correspondence from the Public Service Association of NSW circulated across some public sector agencies incorrectly indicated that the Premiers Department had agreed to Job Search Leave (12 weeks) being a mandatory component of the voluntary redundancy package and that this arrangement would be funded by Treasury.

The provisions of Premier's Memorandum 97-27 remain current with Job Search Leave being an option available to agencies, where appropriate, to assist employees who have accepted an offer of voluntary redundancy to seek employment outside the NSW Public Sector during their remaining period of employment with their organisation. The Premier's Department will develop, in consultation with the PSA, a sector wide guide for the application of these provisions.

Any enquiries should be directed to Reno Lucarini, Manager, Workforce Management Centre on (02) 9228 4164.

C. Gellatly
Director-General

This memorandum has been superseded by M2008-08 Consolidated Policy On Managing Displaced Employees.