Layoff at CSIRO: Hundreds of jobs slashed – What’s next for Australia’s Science agency?
Hundreds of jobs at CSIRO are at risk as the national science agency plans to make Australian research more "sustainable." The public sector union anticipates more than 500 positions, mainly in corporate services and some research units, will be cut. The union warns that this "gutting" could lead to further job losses.
The majority of redundancies are expected within the 1,600 support roles of the ESS unit, covering finance, business developmenthttps://anz.peoplemattersglobal.com/article/technology/what-are-the-top-tech-challenges-prevail-in-intergenerational-workplaces-41507, commercialisation, health and safety, and human resources. Cuts to the health and biosecurity team could also jeopardize the future of a newly built research facility in Sydney’s Westmead.
CSIRO identified the need to reduce the unit’s budget by 25% starting next financial year to "reduce costs, complexity, and duplication." The Community and Public Sector Union believes this could result in over 400 job cuts in the section alone.
CSIRO’s spokesperson stated the final number of roles to be cut is still under consideration, with reductions in headcount not yet quantified. These changes are intended to direct resources to increase research impact for the community.
The May federal budget papers show CSIRO will receive $916.5 million for 2024-25, a $92 million decrease from the previous year. Additionally, CSIRO needs to raise $66 million in revenue, primarily through joint research projects. The drop in resources reflects whole-of-government savings measures and the end of Covid-19 "safety net" funding.
The future of CSIRO’s Westmead facility is in question, with its setup costing taxpayers $4.3 million. Human Health program director Brett Sutton described the restructure as a "difficult decision."
Susan Tonks, CPSU’s CSIRO section secretary, said staff were "in shock" about the overhaul, warning it could have serious consequences for the future of Australian science. A union survey found 67% of staff felt morale had worsened since the downsizing announcement, with 65% believing the cuts would impact CSIRO’s ability to produce quality research.
CSIRO’s spokesperson emphasised that the wellbeing of staff is a priority, with processes in place to support them. The science minister's spokesperson stated that workforce decisions are for CSIRO to make as an independent agency.