RAILROAD AND
THE MAGAZINE OF THE NSW BRANCH OF THE RAIL, TRAM & BUS UNION
Campaign to put buses back in public hands
RTBU Holiday Park
Vacancies - Book your holiday now
The RTBU Holiday Park is a great place to escape to for a peaceful break in the National Park and a walk along the beach. Avoid the rush and the high season rates - book your holiday now. The Holiday Park is situated in a National Park and Members can enjoy a holiday by the sea and relax with fishing, tennis, boating, swimming or bushwalking. RTBU members can also now get discounted rates at the United Services Riverside Resort at Port Macquarie.
For booking enquiries please telephone Head Office on (02)
RAILROAD AND ADVERTISING RATES
Selective advertising is available in RAIL & ROAD at competitive individual issue rates or a discounted annual rate. A design service is also available to have your advertisement professionally designed to your specifications.
RAIL & ROAD is the official journal of the NSW Branch of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union and is produced as part of the union’s communication strategy to inform and report on matters of interest to members. All editorial and advertising inquiries should be addressed to the union office on Tel: 02 92642511; email: nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au
Printing - Brightset, Banksmeadow, (02) 9316 4800
Art & Design - P Design - proberson@hotmail.com - Phone 0402 032 949
NSW BRANCH
Head Office
Level 4, 321 Pitt Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
Tel (02) 92642511
Email nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au
Website www.rtbuexpress.com.au
Tram and Bus Division
Level 4, 321 Pitt
Tel (02) 93197277
Email nswbus@rtbu-nsw.asn.au
Locomotive
Tel (02) 92643400
Fax (02) 92647679
Email nswloco@rtbu-nsw.asn.au
Newcastle
Email newcastle@rtbu-nsw.asn.au
Wollongong Office
Level 1, 306a Crown Street, Wollongong, 2500 Tel (02) 9264 2511
Email wollongong@rtbu-nsw.asn.au
From the Branch Secretary
Toby Warnes
Dear members,
Everywhere you look across our union, members are making an impact: winning fairer deals, defending jobs, and fighting to put the ‘public’ back at the heart of public transport.
Since the last edition of Rail and Road, the NSW Government has been caught out quietly extending the private bus contract in Region 6 without consideration of any alternatives, including the most obvious solution, bringing them back into public hands!.
It’s a broken-promise moment that condemns inner-west commuters to two more years of substandard services and keeps workers exposed to the race-to-the-bottom we see in privatised operations. Our position is unchanged: public transport should serve people, not profit. Keep an eye out for more from us as we campaign to get Region 6 buses back into public hands.
Our campaign continues in Newcastle to bring back their buses with
political and community lobbying taking place, supported by action from members on the ground as they fight tooth and nail for a fair agreement from a company that does not care about its workers.
We continue to challenge payroll chaos. The Keolis Downer Northern Beaches audit has exposed major concerns in pay accuracy. Do not agree to any rectification from management unless you’ve checked it with the union and everything stacks up.
On the rails, we continue to see the benefits for members as Same Job, Same Pay wins roll out across Pacific National and Aurizon. Recent Commission orders mean labour-hire can no longer be used to undercut wages and conditions in key operations. It’s a step towards a fairer industry where equal work attracts equal pay. If you have questions about your pay and how these new laws impact you, talk to your delegate or organiser.
This issue also celebrates our movement and its people. We pay
tribute to Kevin Wilson, a longserving delegate whose 38 years of fearless advocacy left our union stronger, and who passed very unexpectedly. It has left many of us in the union movement in shock. If you knew Kevin and are hurting from his passing – know you are not alone and please reach out to someone to talk about it.
In this edition you’ll also find reflections on the rich history we steward, from the retirement of important leaders to the celebrating of 140 years of Lithgow Yard Signal Box.
At the RTBU NSW, our strength is in our people: on the job, at the bargaining table, and in our local communities. The message is simple: when we organise, we win. And when we win, we win for everyone.
I trust you’ll enjoy this edition of Rail and Road.
Toby Warnes Branch Secretary, RTBU
NSW
General News
Minns Government walks back commitment to end privatisation of state’s buses
Media reports have revealed that the Minns Government
contract without putting it out to tender.
When the news came out in July, our Union immediately slammed the move in the media.
The move is scandalous and means Inner West commuters will be condemned to another two years of substandard bus services, the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) NSW says.
RTBU NSW Tram and Bus Division President, Peter Grech, told media that the move to extend Transit System’s contract by two years not only goes against the NSW Government’s commitment to ending the failed bus privatisation experiment but also undermines faith in public transport and public trust.
“This is a case of public money going to private mates. It’s no way to run a transport system. Extending a contract without even opening it up to a tender process is absolutely scandalous. The initial argument for privatisation of our buses was that it would improve services and improve value for money – neither of those things have happened.”
The privatisation of the region’s buses has been disastrous for local commuters. We’ve seen routes cut and services axed since the region was sold off to the private operator.
Mr Grech said the privatisation of bus services hasn’t just hurt the
inner-west, but the whole of Sydney and Newcastle
“Bus privatisation has hit our most vulnerable very hard – not just in Region 6, but right across Sydney and Newcastle. Commuters have been forced to endure substandard services and local workers have been hit with pay management issues and eroded working conditions. Commuters deserve a world-class public transport system, but at the moment, the service is far from that. We need to see a return to the days when our buses were run for the benefit of commuters, not shareholders.
“The status quo isn’t working – the people of Region 6, and Sydney more broadly, deserve better.
It’s up to the NSW Government to pave its own, better, path for transport which should start with putting buses back in public hands.”
moved to quietly extend the Region 6 private bus
David Babineau, Divisional Secretary launching the Newcastle Buses campaign
Sydney Alliance Recognition for Alex Claassens and Mary Waterford
On Wednesday, 13 August 2025, Sydney Alliance convened to honour the remarkable contributions of Alex Claassens and Mary Waterford, who have recently stepped down from the NSW Community Alliance Board.
The Sydney Alliance is an organisation that brings together a diverse array of community groups, unions, religious organisations, and educational institutions, all united in the pursuit of the common good and striving for a fair, just, and sustainable city.
Alex fully embraced the values of the Sydney Alliance, nurturing countless friendships and shared experiences that have laid the groundwork for a meaningful legacy. These relationships blossomed into a dynamic support network among organisations that have traditionally been outside the trade union movement, including various religious groups and community societies.
While Alex’s absence will be keenly felt at the Sydney Alliance, his passion for cultivating relationships, founded on respectful dialogue and active listening, even in the face of differing views, will continue to inspire.
Get on the TRAM & BUS EXPRESS
Tram and Bus Express is constantly updated with new information from around the depots – including workplace disputes, industry updates and news about RTBU Members. Members who subscribe to the web site get a fortnightly email with links to all the latest scoops. Printed newsletters will also be distributed around depots.
Loco News
Same Job, Same
Pay update
In our last update on our Same Job, Same Pay (SJSP) campaign, we reported that progress was being made with orders at Pacific National, and we’re pleased to report the Fair Work Commission has now handed down a significant win for RTBU members in our fight against labour hire undercutting.
On the 29th August, the Commission made SJSP orders covering Pacific National and the labour hire companies Railtrain, Railtrain Services, Trojan Rail, Trojan Recruitment, and Rail Logistics.
The application against Momentum was discontinued, as Momentum has ceased trading following the reduction in use of labour hire that has accompanied the introduction of our SJSP applications.
The decision means that:
1. From 21 September 2025, labour hire workers supplied to Pacific National to perform rail safety work in NSW will be covered by the pay and financial conditions of the Pacific National Bulk Rail NSW Enterprise Agreement 2022;
2. This means labour hire workers can no longer be used to undercut wages and conditions – they must receive the same rates, penalties and financial protections as directly-employed PN workers;
3. The Commission confirmed that these labour hire workers are, in practice, doing the same work under the same supervision, with the same equipment and safety systems as PN employees.
Reoccurring Exemption Period: The Commission also allowed a recurring exemption for the grain season, when PN requires short-term surges in labour between approximately October and March each year.
Aurizon NSW Coal Operations – Trojan & Railtrain
SJSP Orders have been in effect at Aurizon Coal since 4 May 2025. We have heard reports of significant uplift in weekly pay, especially in penalties related to Lift Up and Lay Back. If you have experienced a significant uplift in pay by virtue of the SJSP Order, we would love to hear about it!
Importance of Same Job, Same Pay
Labour hire has long been used to undercut wages in our industry. With these orders in place, some workers are expected to receive wage increases of up to $35,000 per year, and this IS effective immediately. For some RTBU members who have endured up to eight years of this underpayment, this represents long-overdue justice.
But this isn’t just a win for those directly affected. It’s a win for all Locomotive Division members, a collective step toward ending exploitation and building a stronger, fairer rail industry.
If you’re a labour hire employee covered by this decision and have questions about how this applies to your pay or conditions, please contact your delegate or RTBU organiser.
For more details, contact Greg Cameron at gcameron@rtbu-nsw. asn.au or reach out to your local representative.
Proudly supporting union members rights for more than 85 years
We offer a wide range of services that include potential discounts for union members, as well as a first free appointment** and our no win, no fee* policy. Our experienced team will support and guide you every step of the way throughout your claim journey.
North Region Railway Retirement Dinner
RTBU Officials Kevin Pryor and Craig Turner once again had the pleasure of attending the North Region Railway Retirement Dinner at Club Macquarie.
A great time was had by all, with great food, magnificent company and plenty of grog consumed. Many thanks to the committee for their efforts in organising a top night. This was the first dinner without our best mate Big Darryl Etherington (Big D). He would have been looking down on us from the top deck and smiling.
Tram and Bus News
Newcastle buses EA update
After our appearance in the Fair Work Commission, the RTBU agreed to provide a rationalised log of claims for Keolis Downer Hunter (again). The company was also given time to review this. We also agreed that we would hold off any new protected actions while this process was happening.
We have also asked for the company to release the bargaining committee so we could do further work on the log of claims. They refused.
If KDH isn’t going to uphold their side of the undertakings in the FWC that saw us holding off on further action, then neither are we.
The RTBU has written to the company to tell them we consider their actions have broken the undertaking and to explain themselves. We have yet to receive a response.
The legal process will likely continue, but in the meantime, your bargaining committee is considering more actions next week. If the company challenges our right to take further protected industrial action, then we’ll fight that in the FWC.
Either way, KDH are clearly not interested in a negotiated outcome so we’re going to have to ramp up actions over the next few weeks and force them to bargain in good faith.
Keolis Downer Northern Beaches audit update
The RTBU Bus and Tram Division also recently appeared in the Fair Work Commission regarding pay irregularities at Keolis Downer Northern Beaches (KDNB).
The RTBU’s legal representative highlighted that an interpretation of the Enterprise Agreement may need to be clarified before moving from Step 1, which was to provide marked payslips and receipts of funds already paid. Step 2, which is to meet with members for an explanation of debt or underpayment, would be a bit pointless if every meeting has the same issues. The RTBU asked KDNB to agree to take the issue to arbitration to be judged by the FWC but the company refused. This means that we are moving to unpaid meetings with members. If you would like to attend such a meeting, make sure you have reviewed the spreadsheet most recently
provided, and totalled the amounts in both the ‘paid’ and ‘should have been paid’ columns. Compare this to the original demand for repayment made by the business. Take evidence of any amounts you may have repaid. You may request to have Union support in these meetings if you so wish.
We encourage members to arrange these meetings if you think they will be useful, but please be mindful of the above information and, as we have stated prior, if you are still confused or unsure as to the quantum or how the ‘over-payment’ has arisen, do not agree to repay any amounts.
GET YOUR UNION NEWS
Need to keep up-to-date with what’s happening in your union, need to know more about how fellow members are fighting for workers’ rights and winning battles on a daily basis make sure you grab your next edition of Rail and Road, or check out the rtbuexpress.com.au
Andrew Bryson Retirement
We bid a fond farewell to the fearless delegate Andrew Bryson.
The members at Randwick bus depot will remember a delegate who safeguarded their Award, fighting every step of the way to improve conditions in some shape or fashion and always assisting members in their hour of need. His industrial knowledge and how to resolve problems could never be questioned - in 2001 during EBA negotiations, State Transit attacked the rosters at Randwick, withdrawing weekend work for full-time staff and part-time and casual staff. A 48hr stop work meeting and numerous industrial hearings with Unions NSW saw the introduction of a new award clause around income protection and stopping the attack on full time workers abilities to earn a decent wage with inclusive overtime.
Andrew Bryson led that dispute, resolved it and improved the working lives for all under the 2002 Bus Operators Award. After the privatisation of the STA Andrew continued his union activism as the Salaried Delegate for Leichhardt bus depot in Region 6 and directly helped rebuild the membership base. His knowledge and comradeship will be missed as he moves
International News
Rail engineers leave trains idling in New Jersey
In May this year, rail engineers in the US state of New Jersey walked off the job after marathon contract talks stalled, as the union deadline for meeting its wage demands lapsed without a deal.
The New Jersey Transit strike was the first in more than 40 years to hit a commuter rail operation. The network serves around 350,000 passengers a day, including tens of thousands bound for New York City. The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, which represents 450 NJ Transit engineers who drive the agency’s commuter locomotives, claimed management walked away after a 15-hour bargaining session, where union representatives said they were aiming to raise the engineers’ salaries to achieve parity with other commuter railroads in the region.
Meet your Member Specialists, Glen Warner and Rebecca Viney
We understand that life can be busy. This is why we have a dedicated team committed to making sure you are looked after. For your convenience, Glen or Rebecca can make arrangements to visit you at work or wherever else is convenient for you to discuss your financial needs and make sure you get the right product and deal to meet your goals. Contact Glen on 0413 656 361 or Rebecca on 0405 321 213. Alternatively email bd@australianmutual.bank or visit www.australianmutual.bank for further information. Australian Mutual Bank is a community-based banking organisation that values its members and puts their interests first, providing quality banking, loan and investment services to the community since 1953.
Celebrating 140 years at Lithgow Yard Signal Box
By Purkis; President Signallers Sub-Division
Railways are the custodians of an incredible volume of living history, and in the realm of signalling, we find no exception.
Wednesday, 13 August marked the first and probably the last time any signal box in Australia would reach 140 years of continuous operation. Having worked at the location in question and recognising the significance of the day, a celebration was requested on behalf of the Signallers SubDivision.
Eskbank Station Signal Box was brought into use on 13 August 1885 and renamed Lithgow Yard in 1925. It is unlikely anyone at the time imagined that this dainty wooden cabin would survive for over 140 years. Currently attended 24 hours, 7 days per week by a small team of RTBU signallers, it serves as the western gateway to the Sydney Trains network, an important location for freight operators and controls the terminus of interurban electric passenger services from Sydney. This signal box has witnessed many advances, including connection to town water and the electricity supply, neither of which existed in Lithgow when it was built. Modifications to signalling technology include the replacement of the original 17 lever McKenzie & Holland mechanical frame with a 20 lever in-house design in 1938 (expanded to 24 levers in 1957), installation of track circuits on the main lines, electric signal
lamps replacing oil lamps, kinematic envelope protection, and colour light signalling, although Lithgow is also home to some of the last wire-pull semaphore signals in New South Wales.
On this occasion, we also celebrate the working lives of the hundreds of signallers who have spent countless hours faithfully overseeing the safe passage of trains through Lithgow.
In 2025, Lithgow Yard continues to provide a valuable learning experience for the new signallers of Sydney Trains, many of whom have cycled through this historic location during their training. The two signal boxes at Lithgow are also a valuable source of regional employment, which, in an age of remote control and Rail Operation Centres (ROCs), is something to be cherished.
The other centenarian signal boxes of the Sydney Trains network, which remain operational in 2025, are Lithgow Coal Stage and Fassifern. Outside Lithgow, mechanical interlocking can still be found at Morisset and Bomaderry. Happy birthday, Lithgow Yard Box!
Breaking Barriers: ROC Women’s Network
Sydney Trains frequently boasts about its commitment to an inclusive and equitable workplace for women, promoting various programs designed to support their advancement. However, a closer look reveals that critical issues are being overlooked, leading to obstacles that hinder women’s progression.
For a genuinely inclusive workforce to thrive, companies must confront these underlying challenges. While some progress has been made in certain areas, substantial improvements are still necessary—especially regarding fundamental rights like reproductive health. Addressing these basics is essential for fostering true equality and enhancing the success of all women within the organisation.
The complexities of reproductive health pose significant challenges, yet many issues can be promptly tackled in the workplace if Sydney Trains demonstrates a genuine commitment to this cause.
One pressing example is menstruation-related complications, which numerous studies indicate can obstruct women’s career progression in male-dominated fields. The
physical and emotional symptoms, coupled with insufficient workplace support and pervasive stigma, contribute to reduced productivity and increased absenteeism. By addressing these challenges, Sydney Trains can enhance employee well-being and foster an environment that supports women’s professional growth.
A dynamic group of empowered female members of the RTBU has come together to launch a vital campaign advocating for a Period Positive Workplace at the Rail Operations Centre (ROC).
The Period Positive Workplace initiative is a groundbreaking worldwide movement that champions equality for all. By campaigning for Sydney Trains to adopt this approach, we can achieve meaningful change: providing free, easily accessible
period products, implementing paid menstruation leave, and offering comprehensive education for every employee—including men and especially management. These steps not only support individual well-being but also foster a more inclusive and productive workplace for everyone.
To support this cause, the ROC Women’s Network has developed a survey targeted at female employees in operational areas. This outreach seeks to understand women’s needs and perspectives, aiming to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in what can often be a highly stressful and maledominated workplace.
Your voice matters—join us in advocating for change!
L-R Suzanne Crawley, Cassandra Holyoake, Amy McLaughlin, Rianna Thulin, Marlene and Tiffany Stacy
Sleep Apnoea and Shift Work Safety Matters
Sleep apnoea is often dismissed as a personal health issue, however for many shift workers it may be an occupational disease - caused or aggravated by years of disrupted sleep patterns.
Many workers suffering from sleep apnoea are not currently accessing the medical support and compensation entitlements potentially available under the NSW workers’ compensation legislation. This article outlines how sleep apnoea is linked to shift work, the process of making a claim and what evidence is needed to establish sleep apnoea is work related.
Understanding Sleep Apnoea
Obstructive sleep apnoea occurs when the airway repeatedly closes during sleep, causing breathing to stop and start. This results in:
• Daytime fatigue and poor concentration
• Memory problems and irritability
• Increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and depression
For shift workers - especially those on rotating rosters, night shifts, or extended hours - the risk is significantly higher due to disruption of the body’s natural circadian rhythm.
How Work Can Cause or Worsen Sleep Apnoea
Long-term shift work can:
● Prevent deep, restorative sleep
● Increase inflammation and weight gain - both linked to obstructive sleep apnoea, chronic fatigue and mental health issues
Even if a worker had mild or undiagnosed preexisting sleep apnoea conditions, it is still arguable that shift work could aggravate this condition, thereby making it compensable.
NSW Workers Compensation Law and Sleep Apnoea
Sleep apnoea can be compensated under NSW workers’ compensation law if it can be established that;
• Employment has caused the condition; or
• Employment has been the main contributing factor to the aggravation, exacerbation, deterioration or acceleration of an existing sleep apnoea condition.
If this is established, an injured worker may be entitled to benefits under the legislation including;
• Weekly payments for periods of incapacity
• The costs of reasonably necessary medical treatment (including a CPAP machine)
• Compensation for permanent impairment
Evidence to Support a Claim
The success of a claim will largely turn on the nature and quality of evidence. Some helpful evidence may include;
1. Documented occupational history and work patterns - Document in detail the nature and extent of shift work over the years. This may include a consideration of evidence relating to night shifts, rotating rosters, limited rest periods.
2. Encouraging early medical diagnosis - Consult a GP and refer to the nature of your work rostering and impact on your sleep patterns. Your GP must provide a Workcover medical certificate (certificate of capacity) supporting a connection between your employment and sleep apnoea. In due course a sleep studies (polysomnography) will be required.
3. Obtaining specialist evidence – respiratory/sleep physicians will often consider a link between employment and sleep apnoea
The Claims Process
This is very simple. An injured worker simply obtains a Workcover medical certificate (certificate of capacity) from their GP and lodges this with their employer. Within 7 days they should receive a response from the insurer.
Alternatively, they may seek legal advice prior to starting this process to ensure they follow the correct process.
If there are any delays in the processing of the claim or the claim is disputed by the insurer it may be appropriate to seek legal advice.
Stigma Associated with Sleep Apnoea
Workers are often reluctant to lodge a claim for sleep apnoea due to:
• A lack of awareness that it can be a compensable condition
• Fear of being labelled lazy
• Concern about job security
Why This Matters
If left unmanaged, sleep apnoea can:
• Increase the risk of serious accidents at work
• Lead to disciplinary action against fatigued workers
• Force workers out of employment prematurely due to health decline
Early treatment and recognition improve safety for everyone.
Bottom Line
Sleep apnoea is not just a personal problem - it’s a workplace health and safety issue.
With the right knowledge, workers experiencing shift work-related sleep apnoea can get the medical care, support, and compensation they deserve.
If you have a query or concern in relation to sleep apnoea, please contact your union for referral for legal support.
Whistlestop
Vale Kevin Wilson
It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of long-serving delegate and much-respected comrade, Kevin Wilson.
Kevin’s sudden and unexpected passing has left many in shock. Over his 38-year career in the railways, Kevin was a constant presence in the fight for fairness and respect in the workplace. Beginning his journey at Enfield before moving to Central, Kevin quickly became an active union voice before finding his long-term union home at Blacktown.
Kevin was known for his blunt honesty, sharp wit, and a unique personality that earned him both respect and affection. Beneath an often-grumpy exterior was a deeply caring man, who never sought the spotlight but always stood up when it mattered most.
Kevin leaves behind a legacy of dedication, integrity, and decades of service to Loco Division members. He will be missed by many - his mates, colleagues, and comrades alike. Our movement is poorer for his loss, but richer for having had him among us.
Tribute for
trailblazer
In late June, we farewelled the pioneering Pat Ryan.
Pat entered the bus industry in the early 1970’s following the most tumultuous period ever for the NSW Branch of the AT&MOEA. In 1970-71, the industry was racked by industrial turmoil caused by the Department of Transport’s decision to replace one man operated (OMO) buses with OMO double decker buses. The new proposed method of operation was rejected by the members and lengthy strike actions ensued. Numerous industrial court hearings failed to resolve the dispute, which became known as the Atlantean dispute.
Pat’s entry into the industry was part of a wave of women who were entering traditional blue-collar male occupations. It was only in 1970 that the first female bus drivers were employed in NSW, with that new intake having a long-lasting impact on the NSW Branch of the AT&MOEA. The first female bus driver was June Delorenzo, who was to become the Branch President of the Union. Pat was part of unionism’s women pioneers and became the Branch Secretary. It says a lot about the toughness and tenacity of these groundbreaking unionists.
In a quirk of history, Pat’s father who coincidentally shared the same name, had been the NSW Branch Secretary of the AT& MOEA for many years.
Pat Ryan
O’Dea
Have You Left the Industry? Retired?
Or No Longer Want to be in the Union?
If you have left the industry, permanently or for a period, have retired, or are off work due to illness, or no longer want to be a member of the RTBU, you must resign, or suspend your union membership, in writing.
Our union rules provide that members leaving the union for whatever reason, must do so in writing. If you do not resign in writing, you will continue to be included on our union membership and liable for the dues owing for that time.
Please note: Regardless of whether your union dues were paid by direct debit or through payroll deductions, the employer is not authorised to change your membership details after resignation or leaving the union. You must do this personally.
Please contact the membership office at the union for more information.
Join the RTBU Retired Members Association
Many retired members continue to receive copies of the journal Rail & Road, and take an interest in the life of the union. Many have also said that they would like to maintain a closer connection and involvement with the work of the union. The RTBU Retired Members Association was established to provide a forum for former members to meet, work on campaigns, address issues of particular relevance for retirees and to identify ways of assisting, supporting and contributing to the work of the union.
It is expected that the Retired Members Association will function independently and pursue issues that it identifies as priorities.
If you are a retired member of our union, we would like you to consider joining the Retired Members Association. Membership forms are available from the RTBU Head Office, Level 4, 321 Pitt Street, Sydney or on the union website: www.rtbu-nsw.asn.au
For more information, contact Peter O’Connor at the union office on (02) 9264 2511
For more information, contact Chris Doyle on 0425 327 195 or the union office on (02) 9264 2511
CHANGE OF DETAILS FORM
IMPORTANT Members need to specify the date of their next pay so that when the membership fee debit occurs on a Friday there is sufficient money in the account to ensure the transaction is not dishonoured which results in you then being charged an additional fee by your bank
DETAILS
I/We authorise and request the Australian Rail Tram and Bus Industry Union, until further notice in writing to arrange for my/our account described in this direct debit authority, to be debited with any amounts which the debit user may properly debit or charge me/us through the direct debit system.
I/We authorise and request this direct debit authority to remain in force until cancelled, deferred or otherwise altered in accordance with this service agreement.
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FORM
I, the undersigned, hereby apply to become a member of:
1. The Australian Rail, Tram and Bus Industry Union, an Organisation of employees registered under the Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act 2009 (Cth) as amended, and hereby undertake to comply with the Rules and By-Laws for the time being of the Union; and
2. The Rail, Tram and Bus Union of New South Wales, an Organisation registered under the Industrial Relations Act 1996 (NSW) as amended and hereby undertake to comply with the Rules and By-Laws for the time being of the Union.
I agree to pay $ via DIRECT DEBIT fortnightly OR CREDIT CARD fortnightly or any other amounts as may be determined from time to time in accordance with the Rules of the Union. I certify that I have received a copy of Rule 14, Notification of Resignation from Membership.
1. I/We authorise and request the Australian Rail, Tram and Bus Industry Union, until further notice in writing to arrange for my/ our account described in this direct debit authority, to be debited with any amounts which the debit user may properly debit or charge me/us through the direct debit system.
2. I/We authorise my employer to notify the Australian Rail, Tram and Bus Industry Union of any change of address during my employment.
3. 3. I/We authorise and request this direct debit authority to remain in force until cancelled, deferred or otherwise altered in accordance with this service agreement.
Signature of Applicant
Account Name OR Name on Credit Card Fin an c
IMPORTANT
PLEASE KEEP THE FOLLOWING FOR YOUR REFERENCE
RESIGNATION FROM MEMBERSHIP
OF THE RTBU
1. A member may resign from membership of the Union by written notice addressed and delivered to the Secretary of his/her Branch.
2. A notice of resignation from membership of the Union takes effect:–
(a) where the member ceases to be eligible to become or remain a member of the Union
(i) on the day on which the notice is received by the Union or
(ii) on the day specified in the notice, which is a day not earlier than the day when the member ceases to be eligible to become a member, whichever is later; or
(b) In any other case:–
(i)at the end of two weeks; or
(ii)on the day specified in the notice: whichever is later.
3. Any subscriptions, fees, fines and levies owing but not paid by a former member of the Union in relation to a period before the member’s resignation took effect, may be sued for and recovered in the name of the Union in a Court of competent jurisdiction, as a debt due to the Union.
4. A notice delivered to the Branch Secretary shall be deemed to have been received by when it was delivered.
5. A notice of resignation that has been received by the Union is not invalid because it was not addressed and delivered the Branch Secretary.
6. Resignation from membership of the Union is valid even if it is not affected in accordance with this Rule, if the member is informed in writing by or on behalf of the Union that the resignation has been accepted.
What happens if I get pregnant, sick for an extended period or take leave without pay?
If you are on unpaid maternity leave, sick or are off work for a substantial period of time you can seek to have your membership fees suspended until you return to work by giving written notice addressed and delivered to the Secretary of his/her Branch under Clause 11 (8):
(8) Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Rule, should any member during any financial year be without pay owing to ill health or to other causes which a Branch Executive regards as warranting special consideration, then the Branch Executive may grant the member exemption from payment of all or any contributions imposed in accordance with the Rules for all or part of the period during which he/ she is without pay. During the period of the exemption, the member shall be deemed to be financial.
The Rail, Tram and Bus Union is bound by the Privacy Act and your information can only used for RTBU processes and cannot be used for any other purposes.
The RTBU Executive, Officers and Staff wish all members and their families
Level 4, 321 Pitt Street
Sydney NSW 2000
Tel (02) 9264 2511
Email: nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au
Website: www.rtbuexpress.com.au
