11 September 2026
SCL Group Home Privatisation Decision - Media Statement
Yesterday, members and delegates affected by the proposed privatisation of SCL group homes were told that the decision has been made to go ahead with the privatisation of disability group homes, ending more than 50 years of public service delivery through Supported Community Living. Shame. Members and delegates were given this devastating news on R U Ok? Day in a snap closed meeting, that the union was barred from attending.
"The way this process has been handled has caused enormous and unnecessary distress. Our members have spent months worrying about their jobs, the residents they care for and what will happen to those relationships. The Department and Minister knew the level of anxiety this process was causing, yet workers were repeatedly left waiting for answers about their futures."-Melanie Bray, Branch Secretary
Members have been sent an important update from the union in response to this decision. Check your inbox for further details.
Where to next?
With our major agreement bargaining just around the corner, in the shadow of 1500 job cuts and privatising of a public service, it is critical we are at our full strength to face the fight ahead. Now it is more important than ever to have a strong union in your workplace. If you don't have a delegate, nominate to become one.
More members = more power.
Not a member? Join today!
20 June 2026
SAVE OUR GROUP HOMES
Residential group homes are an essential public service for individuals living with disabilities. Homes provide a safe environment, supported by public sector workers who have dedicated their careers to caring for individuals with high support needs.
Privatising these services will force families to make agonising choices, separate clients from carers and leave 400+ public sector workers without jobs.
When the Government tries to cut jobs, WE FIGHT BACK!
Now is the time to take action, we need people to come together and make their voices heard.
For feedback, questions, or concerns, email: [email protected]
Catch up...
On Monday 8 June 2026, the Cook Government announced intentions to progress consultation on the closure of all residential group homes (excluding Intervention Support Service sites) and privatise remaining state government-provided Supported Community Services Living (SCL) services.
Our position is that the privatisation of public services, especially those that support at-risk and vulnerable people, is never the answer. People should always come before profit.
Should these plans be allowed to proceed, over 400 employees will become surplus to requirements, families that rely on these services will be forced to make agonising choices, and individuals and carers who have developed deep bonds over years of support will be separated.
These losses are in addition to the 1,500 public sector jobs on the chopping block through the VTSS that was announced in the 26/27 State Budget. A budget which delivers a $6 billion surplus over the next two financial years. And yet, this Government wants to cut and run, deserting the individuals, families and workers that rely on the State to put them first.
We have been working with members and delegates to ensure that the consultation with members and residents, families and guardians has been fair and robust. Members, delegates and campaign supporters have been leafletting, letterboxing, attending community events, meeting with local Members of Parliament, wobbleboarding and rallying to stop this privatisation going ahead.
We need the support of all members across the sector to fight this proposal and hold government accountable for the shameful way they are treating workers and the individuals and families who rely on this essential service. This is not just a fight for members in Supported Community Living or the Department of Communities. Privatisation of public services must always be opposed. There is no excuse.
Sign the petition above, join the campaign actions, share our socials and events supporting the campaign, and stand with affected members and delegates.
When public services are under attack, CPSUCSA members stand up and fight back!
