This year, our Sub-branch has continued to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with members from across the Transport Industry. By working hard, we’ve continued to gain ground, and I’m pleased that the momentum we’ve been building hasn’t gone to waste.
I was beyond proud to start this year by joining Transport Workers at Macquarie St, to watch the passing of the Union’s historic reforms to Chapter 6 of the NSW Industrial Relations Act. This was but one campaign that saw results this year.
Also this year, TWU Bus Driver Delegates addressed Transport for New South Wales, sharing the horror-stories of some of the abhorrent treatment they receive on a daily basis. This opened an important dialogue about safety, where we’ve been able to continue working productively with TfNSW towards applying our solutions.
Our position, which has not and never will change, is that safety and dignity at work are non-negotiable. All transport workers deserve respect, and we will take whatever avenue is necessary to ensure that’s achieved.
To that end, further progress has been made on two long-fought campaigns under the TWU’s Road to Respect marker, those being permanent toilet and rest facilities at Parramatta, and a brand-new, modern CDC Depot at Rouse Hill.
These are the results of yearslong efforts – the Parramatta rest facilities in particular replace unmaintained and “temporary” porta potties. Our bus drivers are finally beginning to get the respect they deserve.
I was pleased to join bus workers for the opening of these facilities. They’re certainly progress towards a better sector, and we look forward to continue working constructively towards further outcomes like this. I echo Richard’s words that all stakeholders need to work with us to resolve the current industry climate.
As we look elsewhere, and watched TWU members in Victoria hold Australia’s Biggest Bus Strike, we’re reminded that the fight for pay and conditions only grows more urgent as we look towards ’26, and next year’s huge fight for our roads, our skies, and our future.
Workers across Majors, buses, logistics, aviation and more will all be taking action together for the first time next year, as 200 EAs expire in 2026. This is the result of meticulous planning of transport workers, and by standing together and doing it right, we’ll help arrest the race to the bottom and set better sector standards that will improve the lives of all transport workers.
It’s great to see all we’ve achieved this year, from our new Chapter 6 reforms, to the re-election of the federal government which will safeguard or recent federal reforms, and of course the historic penalty against Qantas.
Transport Workers should be proud that we’ve made our voices heard and are earning the respect we deserve. I look forward to standing with you, at your side, as we take on one of the biggest fights in Union history in 2026. Together, we’ll make clients pay, and set better sector standards.
Robert Rasmussen • Sydney Central West Sub-branch