Australia: Bus drivers to strike in Victoria state August 16

Event

Bus drivers of the Transport Workers Union (TWU) will hold a 24-hour strike in Melbourne and other parts of Victoria state on Thursday, August 16. Over 1000 drivers are expected to participate in the strike, impacting over 120 routes in Melbourne, and to Geelong and Ballarat. Significant service disruptions are anticipated during the work stoppage.

Context

TWU leaders postponed strike over the past two weeks to allow negotiations to take place. However, talks reportedly broke down on August 10 between bus operators and union leaders. The drivers are demanding a 4 percent increase pay raise and a one percent superannuation increase.

Advice

Individuals in Melbourne, and Victoria state more generally, are advised to use alternative modes of transportation and allow additional time to travel.