Members of the Health Services Union Vic No. 4 Branch have escalated their current industrial action, commencing Work-to-Rule from Wednesday, 29 April, 2026.
Members are now providing only the duties explicitly required of them, withdrawing the unpaid overtime and extra work they routinely perform. This escalation highlights the reality that Victoria’s public health system relies on workers consistently going above and beyond their formal roles.
This union includes a variety of different allied health professionals including Medical Scientists (the people who processed COVID tests during the pandemic), Hospital Pharmacists, Psychologists and Dietitians.
They have been bargaining now for over a year, and three weeks ago on April 1, upwards of 1100 union members rallied and marched to the steps of parliament house. Despite this, and a new Health Minister, members are yet to receive a meaningful pay and conditions offer from the Allan government.
Branch Secretary Matt Hammond said:
“With the government reshuffle, we have a new Health Minister in Harriet Shing, and we want her to know that our members are serious in their demands for a decent bargaining offer.
“For this to change, we must keep the pressure high. Escalation is the tool we use to ensure our voices are impossible to ignore.
“These people are incredibly skilled health professionals without which, just like doctors and nurses, the health system would fall apart.
“They’re tired of waiting for the Allan government to make an offer that recognises their contribution to public health.
“Work-to-Rule normally means that workers perform their duties as prescribed, refusing any improvisation or voluntary extra work. When the extra effort our members put in is withdrawn, the system jams up.”
These workers are fighting for a gender equity pay rise of at least 28% over four years (like the significant pay rise received by Victorian nurses in 2024), better career progression, and improved support for professional learning.
For background - El Jones – 0499 658 802
For comment – Matt Hammond – 0418 149 261