Australia: Unionized rail workers plan to strike in Sydney, New South Wales, Nov. 21

Event

Rail workers represented by the Rail, Tram, and Bus Union (RTBU) plan to strike in Sydney Nov. 21 amid an ongoing dispute with transport officials over wage and safety concerns. As a part of their action, striking workers will disrupt operation of the Sydney Trains M set. Unless averted, the work stoppage will severely impact rail services along the T2 Inner West and Leppington, T3 Bankstown, T5 Cumberland, T7 Olympic Park, and T8 Airport and South lines. Commuters traveling near the impacted areas may also experience limited delays.

Lingering disruptions may occur after the strike concludes as operators reposition rolling stock. Available rail services will likely experience crowding, while significant congestion could occur on alternative means of transport. High private vehicle use could lead to traffic congestion on main routes, particularly those heading toward Sydney's central business district.

Context

The Nov. 21 action is a part of a series of weekly work stoppages that the RTBU is planning through December. Additional disruptive strikes will take place on Nov. 25 and Dec. 2. Future walkouts will target other rail services and lines in the greater Sydney area.

Advice

Consider using alternative transport for time-sensitive travel through the evening of Nov. 21. Allow extra time to reach destinations due to increased traffic congestion and demand for alternative transportation.