Independent ACT Senator David Pocock has launched a strong critique against proposed cuts to the staffed operating hours of the Parliament House gym, labelling the move as "short-sighted." The former Wallabies captain expressed his disappointment, emphasising the negative impact the change would have on the building's workforce rather than politicians.
Proposed Cuts to Health and Recreation Centre
The Department of Parliamentary Services this week revealed plans to reduce staffed hours at the internal health and recreation centre. Under the proposal, the facility would close at 6pm, a full two hours earlier than the current 8pm closing time. The final gym classes of the day would consequently start at 4.45pm.
While staff with out-of-hours passes would retain some access, key amenities like the sauna would become unavailable outside the new, shorter staffed window. Posters from unions detailing the changes have been displayed around Parliament House this week, signalling internal discontent.
Pocock Champions Staff Wellbeing Over Political Convenience
Senator Pocock, widely regarded as one of the fittest parliamentarians and a regular user of the gym, raised the issue during Senate estimates. He argued the cuts disproportionately affect the thousands of staff who keep Parliament running during sitting weeks.
"It's disappointing and short-sighted to reduce the staffed hours at the parliamentary gym, not because of the impact it will have on politicians, but on the thousands of staff who work in this building," Pocock told The Canberra Times.
He highlighted that maintenance workers, cleaners, department officials, and staffers for elected representatives often work incredibly long hours. These employees are typically barred from using the facilities before work in the morning, making evening access crucial. "They should have the opportunity to exercise and use these facilities for their physical and mental health," he stated.
Pocock further connected staff wellbeing to public service, adding, "Staff who have the opportunity to look after their wellbeing are generally more productive and can better serve the Australian public." The Department of Parliamentary Services has been approached for comment on the backlash.
Gym Use and Question Time Tensions
The debate over gym access intersects with ongoing tensions about parliamentary attendance. Last month, the government moved to block senators from skipping question time, a motion widely interpreted as targeting Senator Pocock. He is known to use the gym during periods when he does not have a question allocated.
Other crossbenchers also frequently miss question time. A recent report noted that two Greens senators were seen at the airport during October's record-long question time session, which lasted almost four hours. That extended session was triggered by a successful motion from Senator Pocock, the Greens, and the Coalition demanding more questions after the government delayed the release of a report.
