2022 WRAP UP by Darren Galea

I would like to personally thank all our members for their strength and solidarity throughout this year. You have all played an important role in fighting for a better and safer workplace for all Members.

The union has been kept busy visiting Members across the network and industry.

We have continued to run Delegate meetings on the job in all areas big and small, across Victoria.

We are grateful for our hard-working Delegates and representatives who have always made efforts to be in attendance for our monthly Delegate meetings.

The best part of our job is always getting out and about to visit Members, and something we look forward to every year.

This year we had some great wins for safety with the installation of a safety doors, safety spaces, and other safety upgrades throughout the network. The union will continue to fight for safer working conditions with the help of our Delegates and Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs).

The RTBU has continued to lobby for more proactive messaging and funding to address increased assaults and abuse across the network.

This year we have continued our work with the Department of Transport and WorkSafe to achieve safer conditions for our members. It has been great to see more and more of the “It’s never okay to abuse transport staff” messaging rolled out across the network.

Next year we will continue to work closely with Trades Hall in the OHS space, with further collaboration with HSRs, providing more skills/training sessions and direct involvement with our many safety initiatives.

History was made this July when V/Line hired the largest number of female shunters in 35 years. The RTBU is committed to supporting women within the rail industry and we aim to further this momentum in the new year.

We have plenty of challenges ahead of us next year as we prepare for the 2023 Metro and V/Line EA bargaining round, and we will continue to do everything possible to fight for Members safety and job security.

Thanks again to all RTBU Members, and we look forward to seeing you all in person in the new year.

We wish every member a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

The fight continues, but RTBU members stand strong together!