On top of another successful Delegates Conference we have had significant gains at Qantas Freight, Aramex and in the bus industry. I am proud to work with such great delegates and members.
Qantas Freight – ‘No Safety, No Work’
STRENGTH: Members signing up at Qantas freight, joining our fight for fairer and safer aviation industry. We’re advocating for a Safe and Secure Skies Commission to ensure better protections for workers and passengers.
Qantas Freight moved operations and changed rosters without consulting workers, sparking serious safety concerns. In response, workers organised a safety meeting where management committed to addressing the issues and paused operations.
Despite management’s attempts to force workers back, they stood firm, united under the slogan “No Safety, No Work.” Management introduced security measures to limit union access, but this only strengthened workers’ resolve, leading to increased union membership.
Management agreed to work with the TWU on safety issues, demonstrating the power of worker solidarity.
Bus Industry Update
This year has seen significant progress in the bus industry. A new navigation system is being tested across Sydney, aiming to optimise routes, reduce delays, and ease pressures on drivers.
Over $7.5 million has been secured for critical facility upgrades. For too long, drivers have endured subpar toilets and break facilities. This funding is a first step towards improving driver amenities, with the Road to Respect campaign continuing the fight to secure additional funding. Sites earmarked for improvements include Blacktown Station Interchange, Mount Druitt, Liverpool Interchange, Chatswood and eight more spread across Sydney.
Finally, thanks to the massive efforts of TWU members, the NSW Government is supporting transport workers across the state with free Opal cards having been distributed to thousands of bus drivers. Its aim is to help drivers stay on the job longer by reducing some of the cost-of-living pressures we’re all facing.
Aramex Win
The Industrial Relations Commission delivered a significant victory for TWU members against Aramex. Commissioner Sloan ruled that deductions for scanners, sorting freight, or outside hire are neither fair nor reasonable.
MAY: TWU owner-driver members at Aramex in the NSW Industrial Relations Commission fighting to stop the billion dollar multi-national from unlawfully deducting their own operating costs from the pay of low-earning small business operators.
These deductions violate the terms set out in the GCCD, as Commissioner Sloan affirmed. The contract determination prohibits Aramex from deducting:
Any amount for the supply, installation, maintenance, and use of scanners, except for costs resulting from misuse or mistreatment by drivers.
- Costs associated with sorting freight.
- Costs associated with using outside hire.
In our ongoing fight against Aramex, we will be exploring the possibility of pursuing back payments for TWU members.
Robert Rasmussen • Sydney Central West Sub-branch