BEST RAIL OUTCOME in many years

ETU members at Sydney Trains turned round the worst ever EBA offer to achieve what many are saying is the sector’s best outcome in at least 40 years.

It took a 14-month industrial campaign and the emergence of a new generation of delegates to achieve this excellent outcome.

In early 2021, Sydney Trains management, in an attempt to delay bargaining, offered employees a 0.3% pay rise with all conditions rolled over. This was rejected by 97% of workers. That kicked off protracted and often bitter bargaining that was not resolved until in principle agreement was reached in December 2022. 93% of combined union members later voted up the offer.

ETU members won a package that delivers pay rises ranging between 1116%, depending on skill and training levels – the best result for any rail union.

Almost every item in the ETU log of claims was successful, including the introduction of the Electrical Safety Allowance paying between $70 and $130 weekly.

The ETU campaign was led by ETU President and senior delegate Glen Potter with the support of organiser Tara Koot and ETU Secretary Allen electricity sector. Our rail delegates were amazingly united and disciplined throughout the campaign.’

Hicks. The union hosted weekly remote meetings that involved up to 50 delegates. An inner circle of seven senior delegates formed the bargaining committee.

Due to the former NSW government’s State Wages Cap, headline pay increases were restricted. However successful union action in the Fair Work Commission saw an additional 2% awarded in recognition of the cost of living. That brought the total wage rise to 8% over two years, plus super, plus $4,500 sign-on bonus.

The incoming Minns Labor government is committed to abolishing the Wages Cap, which will allow genuine negotiations for the next rail EBA. The current agreement expires in May 2024.

In compiling lists of industrial actions, which were approved in two Protected Action Ballots, delegates drew on the experiences of the 2021 ETU power sector campaigns.

‘Two of our most effective actions were the switching ban and the ban on locking systems, both of which were applied by ETU members in the

Tara said the memorable EBA campaign reflects the ETU’s willingness to fight to advance the interests of members.

‘It was great to see the delegates step up, but just as important was the complete and consistent support from the Branch’s leadership throughout. It was a very positive and united experience.’