General staff at the University of Auckland will vote shortly on a new collective agreement  that includes a commitment from the university to purse a “fair, objective, transparent and fiscally responsible remuneration model” and an agreement that TEU and the PSA will be involved in the development of the new remuneration strategy.

The bargaining team for members of the two unions say the mediated bargaining meetings were constructive, with the university considering and responding to the issues raised on behalf of members.

“We are now in a position to recommend a proposed settlement to members.”

The proposed settlement includes a two percent salary increase and an agreement that TEU and PSA representatives will meet with the vice-chancellor prior to a salary increase offer being made to staff for 2013.

The agreement also includes a new annual salary review process with reference to both development and performance and it retains the joint union/employer salary review committee and an appeal process. The agreement will include safeguards to clauses about disciplinary and review processes to protect membership involvement and ensure procedures for future change are clear and fair.

A fairer pay system was a crucial negotiating issue for general staff at the University of Auckland.