| We’re continuing the momentum we’ve been building this year with activity on many fronts, and making sure that we’re face-to-face with members across the industry; in yards, at the Safe Rates House, and elsewhere. On one hand, we have much to celebrate. Thanks to the relentless efforts of the TWU and its membership, the productivity wage increase for members at Linfox and BevChain is now in effect, allowing members to unlock additional pay through training at no expense. On the other hand, the spectre of pay and conditions elsewhere across the industry has continued to loom large, with other yards meeting this week to discuss job security, ongoing disputes, and safety. |
In particular, my thoughts are with bus delegates this week, who are still fighting valiantly for recognition after a meeting with Transport for NSW meeting last month.
With the federal election only a few short weeks away, I’ve been reflecting on how far we’ve come these last three years, and how much further we have to go. With Peter Dutton vowing to take away all of the hard-fought reforms that we’ve won and are presently law, we must not regress to square one. We can only continue our progress if the current government is re-elected on May 3.
Bus industry delegates are continuing to advocate for greater protection for bus drivers following an urgent meeting with Transport for NSW (TfNSW).
The need for HSRs in the transport industry was once again highlighted by the exceptional work and advocacy undertaken by bus industry delegates.
In the meeting with TfNSW, HSRs articulated that incidents of physical and verbal attacks against drivers increased by over 70% in a single 6-month period. Because these are experiences they live and breathe, the delegates were able to comprehensively list examples of physical and verbal abuse that they and fellow bus drivers have gone through, and the impact these incidents have on their lives.
Following the disinterest the previous government showed to this issue, the TWU is pleased that the current NSW Government has recognised that this is a priority issue and has committed tackling it head-on, alongside TWU members.
TfNSW will need to work to stamp out aggression, incivility and physical violence on the network. The TWU will be pushing for progress and standing side-by-side with our members – change needs to occur.
State Secretary Richard Olsen reiterates, “We know that transport is Australia’s most dangerous industry, however the treatment of bus drivers recently has been especially appalling.
“Like with such high-profile cases as Qantas during covid, HSRs are taking a stand and keeping the industry accountable. The TWU calls on Transport for NSW to make serious commitments in remedying the current industry climate.”
Training New HSRs
With the need for HSRs in the transport industry as important as ever, the TWU is proud to host Comcare approved HSR training on-site, both in Minchinbury and at our sub-branches.
This past week, NSW Assistant-secretary Marija Marsic and WHS & Education Official Emily Armstrong took members through a Comcare approved HSR training course to empower members to champion safety in their workplaces.
Members put their training into action, inspecting the TWU Minchinbury site as part of the course.
The TWU recently hosted similar training in Newcastle, and frequently hosts training sessions for our members.
Helping empower members to take the lead and fight for their rights at work is front and centre of our work with members.
Federal Election: Less Than a month away
The TWU has been proud to achieve a great deal of federal transport reform these last few years, capped by the reforms in Canberra last year.
In recent weeks, Peter Dutton has made it even clearer that he will wind back Industrial Relations reforms from the last three years.
While he’s not afraid to pose in a truck with a big Liberal logo on it, he’s been explicit in saying he wants to wipe out the last three years’ achievements for all workers.
As we reach the final stretch, the TWU will continue to fight to ensure our rights at work are the top priority for the Government.
Learn more about the upcoming election here: https://www.twu.com.au/2025-election/