More than 300 cleaners transitioning to Canberra Health Services on 1 October will start to receive their new CHS uniforms, marking a key step in bringing cleaning services into the ACT Public Service.
The uniform presentation recognises the vital role cleaners play in delivering safe healthcare and welcomes them to the CHS workforce.
From next month, cleaning services at Canberra Hospital and community health facilities will be delivered by CHS. All current cleaning staff have been offered the opportunity to transition into the ACT Public Service as part of the Government's commitment to secure employment and the principle that government services should be delivered by public servants wherever practical.
Cleaners play an essential role in keeping hospitals and community health facilities clean, safe, and welcoming for patients, visitors, and staff.
For many cleaners, the uniform represents recognition of the work they do every day to support patient safety, infection prevention, and a positive experience for everyone who uses our health services.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health, Marisa Paterson:
"Today is about recognising the more than 300 cleaners whose work helps keep our health facilities running every day.
"While much of their work happens behind the scenes, cleaners make an enormous contribution to patient safety and the experience of everyone who visits our hospitals and community health centres.
"Receiving a CHS uniform is a proud milestone and a welcome reminder that cleaners are an important part of our healthcare team."
Quotes attributable to Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for the Public Service, Rachel Stephen-Smith:
"Our hospital cleaners deserve secure, permanent jobs – and that's what these new uniforms mean.
"It's been years in the making, and for the over 300 cleaners putting on their new Canberra Health Services uniform for the first time, it'll be a really proud moment.
"For our cleaners, it'll mean they have secure and stable work, and for our health system, it'll mean we have one integrated team delivering for Canberrans."
Quotes attributable to United Workers Union Property Services Official, Pema Choden:
"Today is a historic day for Canberra Hospital cleaners. Around 300 workers are moving into direct public sector employment because they stood together, organised together, and fought for secure jobs and dignity at work.
"This victory belongs to the workers and their union (United Workers Union) members whose determination made this outcome possible."
