Staff at Courts go on strike due to disagreement over pay
Hundreds of court security and custodial officers have gone on strike to push for a double-digit pay raise.
The workers, employed by Ventia and responsible for transporting prisoners to Western Australia’s (WA) courts, will strike for eight hours on Jan. 24.
Despite the industrial action, Perth’s courts seem unaffected as the Justice Department has implemented measures to ensure hearings proceed as scheduled.
The Transport Workers Union (TWU), representing the workers, claims that Ventia staff, performing similar roles to other court workers, earn up to 24% less.
The union urges the WA government and Ventia to increase the workers’ wages to match those of other workers in similar roles.
Shane O’Brien, WA union assistant secretary, emphasized the importance of pay equity and criticized the lack of pay raises for over two years.
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O’Brien cited low pay as a safety concern for workers, the public, and prisoners, with high staff turnover due to inadequate compensation.
He highlighted the impact of inflation on workers’ finances, calling for urgent pay adjustments.
Around 100 Ventia workers staged a rally outside a Perth Supreme Court building on Jan. 24, demanding fair wages and equal pay for their work.
Union representative Kim Scarlett mentioned ongoing negotiations with Ventia but stressed the need for quicker progress.
Chanting slogans for fair pay, the workers attracted attention from police and bystanders.
Premier Roger Cook pledged to collaborate with the union to address concerns and ensure minimal disruption to court proceedings.
The TWU asserted that equitable wages would improve safety and retention of experienced officers.
Further industrial action remains a possibility, with potential campaigning against Labor MPs ahead of the upcoming state election.
Ventia workers engaged in protected industrial action previously, prompting discussions to enhance their compensation.
In early 2023, the government renewed Ventia’s contract for court security and custodial services, valued at $229 million.
Ventia chose not to comment on the situation.
