V/Line members covered by the Operations EA will soon vote in a ballot to take industrial action.
As management fail to progress negotiations and tackle core claims including job security, safety and equality, and fair wages and conditions, members will now be asked to vote for stoppages to exercise the pressure required to achieve an industry standard outcome.
Just last month we saw Metro agree to no forced redundancies, a 17% wage increase, improved classification structures and other clauses including better work-life balance conditions. It is only natural to expect that V/Line meet these minimums before addressing the core issues relevant to support the future of our regional network.
Industrial action items will include stoppages, a ban on overtime, and a uniform ban. Members will be asked to vote electronically via SMS and email to endorse the action and send a strong message to both V/Line and the government.
While some progress has been made with a number of improvements locked in, we recognise that in the current climate of increased living pressures, chronic understaffing and a competitive skilled labour market in the rail industry, it is prudent that we aim high for regional member to secure the best possible EA that is fit for the future.
The RTBU will stop at nothing to hold both management and government accountable in the face of shallow and negative rhetoric that will otherwise drive V/Line into the ground.
Members are encouraged to contact the RTBU office to confirm their details are up to date and able to vote in the upcoming ballot.
