Transport Union Considers Avoiding Expensive Action in Return for Reduced Public Transport Fares to 50 Cents
The Rail, Tram, and Bus Union (RTBU) is urging the NSW government to consider implementing lower-cost fares as potential industrial action looms, posing a financial threat to taxpayers.
If the RTBU’s industrial action goes ahead, it could cost New South Wales (NSW) taxpayers $100 million per month. The union has suggested that it may reconsider its stance if the government agrees to reduce public transport fares to 50 cents.
The proposal, initially introduced in Queensland to alleviate cost-of-living pressures, has garnered interest in other states such as NSW.
According to the union, transitioning to 50-cent fares in NSW would benefit both commuters and the government. The union is willing to halt industrial action if these reduced fares are implemented.
This announcement follows emergency discussions on Sept. 19 between the RTBU and the state government regarding wage rates and other unresolved issues throughout the week.
The union is advocating for a 32 percent pay increase over four years for workers, alongside a 35-hour work week and various safety enhancements.
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The potential industrial action coincides with major upcoming sporting events in Sydney, including the NRL and AFL grand finals and the rugby union Bledisloe Cup. The government is working to establish alternative transportation options.
Passengers wait for the arrival of a Sydney Metro train at Chatswood Metro station for the first day of public travel, Sydney, Australia, on Aug. 19, 2024. AAP Image/Jeremy Piper
In a statement, the RTBU has accused the NSW government of continual attacks on transport services and failure to engage in fair negotiations regarding enterprise agreements.
“The NSW government has not addressed safety concerns raised by stakeholders, including the union, regarding the transition of the existing heavy rail corridor to an exposed Metro line without adequate safeguards for commuters,” said RTBU NSW Secretary Toby Warnes.
The union has also threatened to shut down the 150-year-old T3 train line from Liverpool to the city if the government proceeds with plans to convert part of the route to a driverless, metro standard.
To facilitate the construction work, the Sydenham to Bankstown section of the route may need to be closed by the end of the month.
Citing safety concerns, the union believes that the conversion poses risks due to the track being at ground level if driverless trains are utilized.
If union-imposed bans delay construction, it could result in a monthly cost of $100 million for the state, as stated by NSW Transport Minister Jo Haylen, who expressed hope for a resolution before the weekend.
“My door is always open because we want to ensure that families can attend the upcoming sporting events this weekend,” she added.
