Recently, the South Coast have held our first two Delegate 1 training courses since moving into the Swan Street office. Both courses were a great success, and hopefully the first of many to be held in the South Coast board room. Special thanks to Emily Armstrong for doing an amazing job in educating our great Delegates.
The DGL site in Port Kembla’s 21 Dump has become fully unionised. The drivers have stuck together, now having an even stronger voice in the effort to improve working procedures and structures. The drivers ought to be commended for their strength and effort.
We’ve also been actively working with members from Remondis Piction. Remondis have shamefully backed away from their previously agreed 2026 expiry and have attempted to force two inferior documents with a 2028 expiry – the members have voted these down both times. TWU members have a very simple ask, which is an EA with a 2026 or 2029 expiry with better pay increases and a pathway to 15% superannuation. If Remondis won’t meet the workers there, it’s a non-starter.
Our sub-branch will continue to work with our effected members, both now and as we get deeper into the fights of next year. We’re proud to stand with our members to get better pay and conditions.
EA Kicked off @ Autocare Port Kembla
Recently, Auto Care Kembla Grange have also kicked their EA negotiations. This time around, drivers are seeking a full utilisation clause, a pathway to 15% superannuation, improved Delegates rights, improvements to the consultation and disputes procedure, and a wage increases of 7% p/a up until 2029. The last EA resulted in 7 days industrial action, the members are looking for more of an amicable negotiation this time but are willing to take action again if need be.
Rob Pirc
SOUTH COAST & SOUTHERN
Sub-branch Secretary