Sydney Water employees are experiencing severe financial distress, including threats of suicide, due to ongoing issues with a new payroll software system. A damning letter penned by the Australian Services Union (ASU) has called on NSW Premier Chris Minns to stand down key executives, citing months of late or underpaid wages following the implementation of the Dayforce software.
The nearly $40 million 'workforce transformation strategy' went live on July 1, replacing a decades-old payroll system for Sydney Water's 4,885 employees. Since then, all four pay cycles have been reportedly mishandled. Workers have described being unable to afford essentials like childcare or rent, missing child support payments, and being unable to refuel their vehicles.
The ASU's letter specifically names Sydney Water's Managing Director Darren Cleary, Chairperson Niall Blair, Executive General Manager of People and Governance Debbie Schroeder, and Head of People Experience Programs Lynda McClelland. The union asserts that these leaders should be stood down without pay until the payroll issues are resolved.
Legal and Industrial Action
The software debacle has resulted in four separate legal proceedings, including actions before the Fair Work Ombudsman and the NSW Industrial Relations Commission. Additionally, an application for protected industrial action has been filed with the Fair Work Commission, with union members set to vote on proposed action.
According to the ASU, warnings that the Dayforce software was not ready for implementation were allegedly ignored by Sydney Water management and dismissed as 'fearmongering.' Leaked emails purportedly show that issues were actioned despite internal warnings. Sources close to the situation claim that payroll and human resources staff had previously alerted management to potential problems before the July launch.
NSW Water Minister Rose Jackson expressed significant disappointment with Sydney Water's handling of the situation. While she stopped short of endorsing the call to stand down executives, Jackson stated she would work with the union to ensure a thorough review. "Sydney Water has been told in no uncertain terms that they need to urgently resolve any outstanding issues and I’m confident they understand my expectations," Jackson said.
A spokesperson for Sydney Water acknowledged the "distress and frustration" caused by the disruptions. The company has implemented measures such as out-of-cycle payments to address immediate pay corrections and strengthened oversight processes. Sydney Water also stated it is providing support to affected employees, including financial assistance and confidential counseling services. An independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the software rollout has reportedly been agreed upon.