The country's largest union is on stand-by to support Ministry of Youth Development staff who could find themselves out of a job just weeks before Christmas.

Youth Minister Nikki Kaye has confirmed 10 of 25 roles at the ministry will be cut as $1-million is re-prioritised from its budget for a new partnership fund.

Public Service Association national secretary Glenn Barclay said the minister's timing is appalling.

"They've got Christmas, they've got families, they're distraught and upset."

He believes Minister Kaye's consultation process is a sham.

"The minister has made her decision, the consultation will be over mere details really. There's been no real consultation on the issues that are driving it."

Glenn Barclay said an independent review of the ministry has found staff are performing well and they are confused about what is driving the restructure.