COGG staff redeployment

THE City of Greater Geelong council’s redeployment program has seen more than 200 staff they stood down last month regain employment in various temporary positions.

On April 1 the city announced they would stand down 576 of their employees in line with directives from the state and federal governments.

The City’s redeployment program has since enabled some of these staff to take on temporary positions in roles such as welfare contact officers. Meals on Wheels deliverers, school crossing supervisors, street cleaners, tree and park maintenance workers and digital support workers.

City chief executive officer Martin Cutter said the program had benefits beyond keeping staff employed.

“As one of the biggest councils in Victoria, we provide a huge range of services for our community.

“Not only has the redeployment program allowed us to keep employees working, we have been able to boost services to better support our community during this time.”

The redeployment program recently allowed casual employees who have been left without shifts to register.

The city is working with Australian Services Union delegates to explore what further roles may be available to employees who have been stood down.

Geelong acting mayor Kylie Grzybek said the council was looking to find the best solution for each employee.

“The team is talking directly to all employees to understand their individual circumstances and how we can best support them. Every day, alternative work is being identified in our business that adds value to our community.

“We really want our employees to feel valued and valuable, and the absolute best way to do that is by finding them other meaningful roles within the organisation.”