APSA Basic Agreement to be Renegotiated

Simon Fraser University has initiated the process to renegotiate the APSA Basic Agreement, which sets out how the university and APSA work together on matters such as compensation discussions and employment policies.

What does this mean?

• There is no immediate impact to APSA members.
  Roles, responsibilities, compensation, and working conditions remain unchanged.
• Current negotiations continue as planned.
  The Final Offer Selection process begins on July 9 and is separate from this initiative.

Why is this happening?

The Basic Agreement is intended to support a collaborative and effective working relationship. In recent years, there have been indicators that improvements are needed.

Following a 2024 review process that included input from an arbitrator, the university has determined that it is the right time to take a broader look at how the agreement is structured and how the relationship operates. 

The current agreement expires on Dec. 31, 2026, and there is a mandatory 6-month notice period by either party to initiate renegotiation, therefore we are required to notify before the end of June.

What is the goal?

The university’s goal is to work with APSA to:

• Strengthen collaboration and communication
• Improve processes for resolving issues
• Ensure the agreement reflects current needs and expectations

What happens next?

• SFU and APSA will begin discussions as part of the renegotiation process
• If both parties cannot come to an agreement, a mediator can be engaged to make non-binding recommendations for both groups to consider.
• The university is aiming to reach an updated agreement before December 31, 2026
• Updates will be shared with APSA members as work progresses

Our commitment

SFU remains committed to a respectful and constructive relationship with APSA and to keeping members informed throughout this process.

FAQ

Will my job or salary be affected?
No. There are no changes to roles, compensation, or working conditions as a result of this notice.

Does this affect current bargaining?
No. Current monetary negotiations will continue as planned.

Why is SFU doing this now?
To enhance the effectiveness of the agreement and ensure issues are addressed and resolved in a more timely, consistent, and sustainable way—supporting the best interests of both staff and the university.

Will staff be consulted?
Updates will be shared regularly. Engagement opportunities may be provided where appropriate as the process evolves such as on a bargaining committee.

What happens if an updated Basic Agreement is not reached before December 31, 2026?
The university’s goal is to work collaboratively with APSA to reach an updated Basic Agreement before its expiry on December 31, 2026.

Both SFU and APSA have a shared interest in maintaining stability and continuity for APSA members, and there are established processes to support ongoing negotiations if more time is needed. If both parties cannot come to an agreement, a mediator can be engaged to make non-binding recommendations for both groups to consider.

Our focus remains on working in good faith to reach an agreement that strengthens the relationship and provides clarity and consistency moving forward. We will keep APSA members informed as the process progresses.