The United Services Union (USU) is pleased with an initial positive win for Coffs Harbour Council Beach Lifeguards, beachgoers, and the broader community following a directive from the New South Wales Industrial Relations Commission (IRC) to Coffs Harbour City Council regarding its controversial "Resolution 2025/160".
The resolution, which sought to outsource the Council’s Beach Lifeguard Services without proper consultation, has now been halted following strong USU advocacy and community concern.
The NSW IRC has recommended the Coffs Harbour City Council:
The Council’s General Manager reports to the elected Council to rescind
Resolution 2025/160
Cease all discussions about its implementation until at least 14/8/25
Disclose all relevant documentation, including previously confidential reports
Engage directly with the USU to resolve any operational concerns
Return to the IRC for a formal hearing on 14 August 2025
“This is a win for transparency, fairness, and public safety,” said Luke Hutchinson, USU.
“Our lifeguards are highly trained professionals who deliver a gold standard service.
"They deserve respect, not backroom decisions that threaten their jobs and the safety of our beaches.”
The USU has long championed the importance of publicly delivered, community-first services, especially when it comes to lifesaving roles like beach lifeguards.
“Beach safety is not a business opportunity, it’s a public responsibility,” Mr Hutchinson said.
“This outcome ensures that decisions about essential services are made with integrity, consultation, and the community’s best interests at heart.”
The USU has also raised concerns that the Council’s initial actions may have breached the NSW Local Government (State) Award, the Local Government Act, and tendering guidelines. These concerns are ongoing.
The USU will continue to stand by the Coffs Harbour beach lifeguards and the community to ensure that public services remain public and that current local beach lifeguards are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
Contact: Tim Brunero 0405 285 547
