FIRE COMMUNICATIONS UPDATE - 06 june 2023

WILL FMES / FAST REQUIRE FCOM TO DO MORE WORK?

Today, after some months of asking for an update, your union finally received some information on the ‘Field Mobility for Emergency Services’ app, which QFES intends to roll out as ‘FAST Qld’ (frontline activation support tool for Queensland).

Here is the QFES internal link to the current QFES information on the app –
https://qfes.sharepoint.com/sites/gateway/IT/projects/Pages/FMES-Project.aspx

Despite this being published on the QFES gateway, where it would seem many decisions about how this app will work have already been made, it appears those responsible in QFES have neglected to engage with you and your union about the workload changes that might result for you and your colleagues.

An unknown amount of process and workload changes will result when this app commences.  QFES have failed miserably to genuinely consult with your union on this.  We have lodged a dispute with QFES and will be holding emergency talks with QFES over the coming weeks.

To conclude, no one knows the answer to the question at the top of this Code 2, as the process of genuine engagement to work this out has not occurred, and of course is now only happening because your union demanded it, and after the announcement has been made and the roll out of the app has commenced.

It would seem those involved from QFES aren’t aware of their simple legal obligations to consult and your union has reserved our rights with regard to progressing that matter.

I will update you when I know more about the impact to your roles arising from the commencement of this app in FRS auxiliary response and RFS response.

John Oliver - General Secretary

Authorised by John Oliver General Secretary 
United Firefighters' Union of Australia, Union of Employees QLD