Melanie Bray; New CPSU/CSA Assistant Secretary

After 21 years as a member of the CPSU/CSA, Melanie Bray has been appointed Assistant Branch Secretary.

Starting her career as Client Assistant in a Disability Services group home, Melanie joined the Union at her workplace induction.

“I didn’t come from a family of Unionists and didn’t really know the role of Unions in the workplace, but I joined on my first day and a few years later my colleagues nominated me to be a Delegate at Disability Services,” she said.

After some significant wins working on workplace agreements and the reclassification of social trainers, she joined the CPSU/CSA as an organiser in 2008.

“I am determined to continue to build our great Union and continue the work of the leaders who came before me.  I know the power and passion public sector workers have and their commitment to the incredible work they do. I am honoured to work alongside our members and delegates as they advocate for the people who serve the Western Australian community in the WA public sector.”

In the decade since, Melanie has worked on a number of campaigns in many different state government agencies, had two children and finally, became the head of CPSU/CSA Organising earlier this year.

“Having come from the sector myself, I am very passionate about the public sector and the work it does.

“And I’m just awed everyday about the work our members do to keep the state running.”

In November 2018, Melanie was appointed Assistant Branch Secretary to the CPSU/CSA.

“I am proudly PNG Australian and I think being mixed race and growing up with plenty of changes and challenges makes me better at seeing the world from different perspectives. I think we need to encourage diversity in every aspect of life and am excited to bring my life experiences to the role of union leader and hope that encourages others to see what is possible.”

Melanie says it’s an honour to be appointed to the role.

“I want to see this Union and the sector maintain, build and demonstrate a position of strength and I’m really grateful for the opportunity to help lead CPSUCSA to the great outcomes its members deserve,” she said.