Rail Unions Push to End Industrial Action Suspension Early
Image: Transport for NSW/Facebook
Sydney’s rail unions are seeking to cut short the suspension of industrial action by 14 weeks, arguing that the measure has failed to resolve their ongoing pay dispute with the Minns government.
The government secured a significant legal win last month when the federal workplace regulator mandated a suspension of industrial action until July 1 to alleviate “significant pressure” and halt the “mutual recriminations” between both parties regarding a new pay agreement.
The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) and several other unions representing railway workers have lodged an application with the Fair Work Commission to revoke the order or end the suspension this Friday, just one month after it was put in place.
Industrial action has repeatedly disrupted Sydney’s train network since September, with rail workers demanding improved conditions and a $4500 sign-on bonus. The Fair Work Commission initially suspended industrial action until July 1 to ease tensions and allow negotiations to progress. However, the unions claim the move has been ineffective.
“[Sydney Trains and NSW Trains] have changed their position on key matters and the parties are further apart than they were before,” the unions stated in their application.
Rail Unions Challenge Suspension Amid Pay Dispute
The unions also allege that rail operators have reneged on agreements regarding backpay and the removal of a controversial technology change clause. “In addition, [their] proposal removed significant existing entitlements,” the application claims.
The legal challenge follows the Electrical Trades Union (ETU) appeal to the Federal Court, seeking to overturn the order suspending industrial action. The court has reserved its judgment after a full-day hearing on Wednesday.
The ETU, which represents 940 rail workers, had previously split from the combined rail unions leading negotiations. In contrast, the RTBU represents nearly 8000 staff, making up 60% of the workforce at the state’s passenger rail operators.
A response from Transport for NSW has been requested. The outcome of the Fair Work Commission hearing on Friday could determine whether industrial action resumes in the coming weeks.
