Industrial action planned by the Victorian branch of the Rail Tram & Bus Union (RTBU) for Wednesday, December 13, will proceed after talks with V/Line failed to address employees’ concerns ahead of the notified stoppage.
The industrial action will take place between 3am-7am and will be taken by RTBU members in operations grades (excluding driving grades), bringing the network to a halt.
V/Line has informed the public that services will likely be impacted beyond the scheduled time.
RTBU branch secretary Vik Sharma said the union had notified V/Line of the action more than a week ago and “made clear” representatives were ready for intensive negotiations.
“The parties participated in a Fair Work Commission conference last Friday to work through outstanding items,” he said.
“The union will continue to push its core claims including job security, work/life balance and fairness for all staff.
“Bargaining commenced in June when the current agreement expired. The work stoppages follow a strong ballot result that saw union members vote overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action.
“V/Line has continued to bury their heads, refusing to acknowledge deep seated issues throughout their management structures.
“We are disappointed thatV/Line has been unable to resolve outstanding issues and the impact this will unfortunately have on commuters.
“We encourage commuters to share this news with family and friends to ensure alternative travel arrangements can be made where possible.
“In the current climate of automation, major changes and an uncertain economy, members are fighting for what all workers across Victoria deserve – job security and decent conditions.”
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