28 Jul 2023 | 10:30 PM UTC
Australia: Multiple unions threaten to commence work stoppages in New South Wales as of late July
Multiple unions threaten to commence work stoppages in New South Wales, Australia, as of late July. Confirm medical appointments.
Event
As of July 29, multiple unions have threatened to commence strikes in New South Wales to demand various work-related concessions. Healthcare workers affiliated with the Health Services Union (HSU) have voted to launch a work stoppage from July 31 to demand that they receive 100 percent of salary packaging benefits after rejecting a government offer of 60 percent salary packaging. Additionally, Sydney Water workers associated with the Australian Services Union have threatened to begin industrial action to demand higher wages and better working conditions. Unless averted, the strikes will almost certainly disrupt medical services to varying degrees across New South Wales as well as water distribution in Sydney, the Blue Mountains, and the Illawarra region. Other unions may announce similar plans for work stoppages over the coming days.
Although there were no immediate announcements for any such gatherings, strike participants may stage demonstrations. Potential gathering sites include healthcare facilities and utility offices, as well as prominent government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. Authorities will likely monitor any such rallies that materialize and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Activists may march along roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Localized business disruptions are also possible.
Advice
Confirm medical appointments and water services if operating in New South Wales over the coming days. Avoid any demonstrations that materialize as a precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Plan accordingly for possible localized business disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
