This Memorandum explains the Government's policy regarding the role of the NSW Public Sector in the 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games Volunteer Program.

The policy requires all agencies to start planning now so they can identify the likely call on their resources during the Olympic and Paralympic Games period. Subject to agency needs, applications from staff to take leave during the Games period to participate as a Games volunteer are to be encouraged. Agencies are also to facilitate other leave taking to enable families to attend the Games.

In this respect, the Government has approved of employees receiving up to five days special purpose leave to be combined with other forms of leave to enable them to participate as a Games volunteer. This policy does not apply to teachers and some other staff of Government schools and TAFE Colleges and Campuses as these employees will be on leave during the school and TAFE vacation period, which coincides with the Olympic Games period.

Attached are the guidelines on the role of the NSW Public Sector in the Games Volunteer Program prepared by my Department. The guidelines provide an outline of the Volunteer Program conducted by the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG). In the lead up to the Games, SOCOG will require selected volunteers to undergo training and may also provide them with experience at pre-Games sports events. Because of this commitment it will be necessary for agencies to be able to give employees an early indication of the likelihood of leave being approved to become a Games volunteer.

In those areas where high workloads are anticipated due to the Olympic Games or because of other essential service requirements, agencies will need to determine appropriate arrangements for managing resources during this period. A whole of Government approach to sharing staff resources should be explored where possible. If necessary agencies may need to restrict leave taking so as to maintain operational effectiveness without increasing normal overtime or temporary staffing.

Your support to enable staff to participate as a Games volunteer is appreciated.