Sydney’s rail commuters are bracing for chaos on New Year’s Eve as the Australian Rail, Tram, and Bus Union (RTBU) announced plans for further industrial action.
The union’s move has sparked a strong response from the state government, with Transport Minister Jo Haylen vowing to take the matter to the Fair Work Commission to protect the city’s busiest night of the year.
A “History-Making” Vote
On Monday, RTBU members approved a protected action ballot order, giving the green light for industrial action to go ahead. While the exact nature of the action is still unknown, the vote has sent shockwaves through the state government and opposition, who fear commuters will be left stranded on New Year’s Eve.
A Global Event at Risk
Speaking at Martin Place train station, Minister Haylen emphasized the importance of ensuring public safety and minimizing economic harm. “Every year, over one million people line the foreshore of our beautiful harbour… trains are required over a 48-hour period, including every four to five minutes over Sydney Harbour. That is the level of service that is required… We’re talking about a global event here that people look forward to and that businesses need, and that’s why the government is taking legal action to protect it.”
The Fair Work Commission’s Role
Under Section 424 of the Fair Work Act, the commission has the power to suspend or terminate protected industrial actions if they are deemed to be causing significant damage to the Australian economy or an important part of it. Minister Haylen has made it clear that the government will “pursue all legal avenues” to prioritize passengers and businesses.
Protracted Negotiations
The RTBU has been in talks with the state government over a 32% pay rise over four years and the implementation of 24-hour train services between Thursday and Sunday. However, the parties have been unable to reach an agreement, leading to a series of court battles.
What This Means for Commuters
Sydney Trains chief executive Matt Longland warned that the RTBU may reinstate up to 200 work bans, which could have a significant impact on commuters. “We haven’t yet been advised of the detail around which bans will be reapplied, from which time should they all be reapplied. Should they all be reapplied, there are more than 200 work bans,” he said.
Minister Haylen has assured commuters that there will be a “level of service” from Friday, but urged travellers to check their travel apps for updates. With the RTBU threatening to take action, commuters are being advised to plan ahead and prepare for disruptions.
A Bitter Dispute
RTBU secretary Toby Warnes has been critical of the state government, accusing them of “getting to this state of disrepair” and failing to value the public transport system. He warned that the union would “do whatever it takes” to achieve their demands and that action may take place if Sydney Trains does not commit to their requests.
As the dispute continues to escalate, one thing is clear: commuters are caught in the middle of a bitter battle between the RTBU and the state government. With New Year’s Eve just around the corner, the fate of Sydney’s public transport system hangs in the balance.