Australia: Melbourne metro workers plan industrial actions August 12,19

Event

The Rail, Tram, and Bus Union (RTBU) in Victoria state announced a series of industrial actions on Monday, August 5, that will be carried out by metro train workers starting on Monday, August 12. Metro staff will allow commuters to ride for free on August 12 and Monday, August 19, and will not sell or top up public transportation smartcards (Myki cards). Also starting on August 12, train drivers will not skip stations, adjust services, or operate trains that do not have fully operational Passenger Emergency Intercoms. An indefinite ban on wearing uniforms will also come into effect. RTBU leaders said that the industrial actions are not intended to impact the public and operations are expected to continue as normal; however, some minor disruptions are possible. Negotiations are scheduled to take place in the coming days.

Context

Metro rail workers have been negotiating with Metro Trains for almost six months over job security and salary adjustments. The union is demanding a 6 percent pay increase but have only been offered a 2 percent raise.

Advice

Individuals in Melbourne are advised to monitor developments to the situation and anticipate possible rail service disruptions.