Members, thank you all for your solidarity and unity throughout 2022.
The RTBU is a member driven union, and it is only with your support that we can deliver strong outcomes for all Members across the network.
2022 has seen companies back at their usual tricks, trying to force through budget cuts and changes to the way the network runs, all the while blaming “COVID”.
Recent years have seen the RTBU engaged in industrial battles to stop the restructures and reclassifications of Members. We must be ready and united to stop any attacks on Members.
A big theme this year from the companies has been an utter lack of consultation as they try to push through big changes affecting the way Members operate.
We keep fighting to ensure at every turn that RTBU Representatives are involved in any and all changes the company attempt.
I would like to thank the RTBU’s hard-working Delegates, HSRs, and Women’s Advocates, who are on the ground and first to fight back against the companies’ tricks.
The fights against the companies are not over, but I am confident that with the calibre of RTBU Members and Delegates, we are ready to face any battle as a united front.
As we look forward to the future of public transport, there is a lot of promise for growth and investment. The proposal of a new ticketing system, the new metro tunnel project, and many other rail projects in the works.
In the not-so-distant future, we have a major round of bargaining kicking off next year. Bargaining will commence with RTBU Delegates leading the way early next year.
At the time of writing this, the RTBU Election results have not yet been declared. Regardless of the result, I want to thank all the candidates who put their hand up to run, and all the Members who participated in voting.
In 2023, the RTBU will be celebrating 30 years since amalgamation. The RTBU, and its predecessors have an important place in the Australian political and industrial history.
This year we sent Members a timeline of union history, highlighting integral moments of Australia’s union movement, and within the RTBU’s history.
Since 1862, our union has been at the forefront some of the country’s most significant industrial battles, and I’m very proud to be the branch secretary of a union which has paved the way for better rights and conditions for Members.
In spite of our rich history of industrial strength, Members are facing significant challenges, including the impact of automation, casualisation and privatisation on their workplaces.
The RTBU must continue to evolve with the times in order to stay strong and deliver the support, advocacy and leadership that our members demand and deserve.
I wish every Member a happy festive season with your families and loved ones.
Look out 2023, the RTBU is ready!
