WA Branch Changes its Name

The Western Australian branch of the union is now officially known as the Health Services Union of Western Australia.

After 50 years as the Hospital Salaried Officers Association of Western Australia the switch became official yesterday.

HSU Secretary, Dan Hill, says that the name change was needed to reflect the way the health industry has been transformed.

"For 50 years the HSOA represented health professionals, administrators and clerks, technicians and supervisors in the public and private health sectors," Mr Hill said.

"Health employees no longer work just in hospitals, they are in the community, and in private companies providing pathology and radiology services.

The new name Health Services Union reflects that change," Mr Hill said.

"HSU members work alongside doctors and nurses providing healthcare direct to the West Australian community.

"Professions like physiotherapy, medical imaging, medical science, social work, and many others, are backed up by a range of skilled technical workers in areas like laboratories and bio-engineering.

"All these health workers are supported by administrative and clerical workers who keep the health system functioning efficiently and effectively."

"For 50 years the HSOA has given voice and strength to its members. While the name has now changed to the Health Services Union the commitment to improving our members working lives and the health services they provide remains as strong as ever."

The national secretary of the HSU Craig Thomson said welcomed the name change of the WA branch which is part of a move to strengthen and expand the union.

"Industrially and politically the HSU is now the name that should be associated with health workers across the country," Mr Thomson said.

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Last Modified: Wednesday, 16-Nov-2005 17:18:58 EST