There is so much more to PSA membership than just help with workplace issues and pay rises. There are advantages to membership that can save you and your family a lot of money and hassle on things from health insurance to family holiday fun.

PSA members automatically have 24/7 personal and accident injury cover included in their membership fee. The union recently included lump sum benefits for fractured bones, dental and workplace assaults requiring hospitalisation for 48 hours or more. For an extra $11 a year, coverage is extended to immediate family.

Another significant membership benefit that members should be aware of is Foundation House. The residential facility was set up by the union movement in 2000, and has helped NSW union members get the professional, compassionate, and completely discreet care they need for issues with alcohol, drugs and gambling.

“Asking for help is the first step in getting well,” said PSA CPSU NSW Assistant General Secretary Troy Wright. “Once help from Foundation House has been sought, members – and their immediate family – can start a literally life-changing program.”

Foundation House is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It runs 28-day, in-house rehabilitation programs.

For more information on how to participate in this program for you or your family member call 02 9555 4034 or email [email protected]

The Gidget Foundation is another foundation the PSA CPSU NSW has partnered with. The organisation provides members and their family with support for expectant and new parents experiencing perinatal depression and anxiety – at no cost. Because people are feeling very vulnerable and anxious at this point in their lives, the 10 free counselling sessions can be delivered face-to-face at one of its 10 sites, or telehealth via a video call. A doctor’s referral is required. For help, email [email protected], or call 1300 851 758.

“The PSA offers many serious and highly important benefits for our members, but we also want you to have fun,” said Member Services Manager Kym Ward. “With the school holidays about to descend upon us, the PSA can help you go to Raging Waters Sydney in Prospect.

“For $15 off the online price for tickets, members should visit www.ragingwaterssydney.com.au/promo, and enter ‘PSA’.”

General Secretary Stewart Little urged members to take up the union’s benefits.

“Our union wins for members,” he said. “Every dollar a member saves or assistance they receive is a victory of sorts for us. It pays to be union and it pays to be part of the PSA CPSU NSW.”