Sydney passengers furious at rail union’s pay demands, train disruptions

Sydneysiders have slammed the rail union’s disruptive industrial action and huge wage demands which have left NYE celebrations at risk of being cancelled. Have your say, vote in our poll.

Sydneysiders have unleashed on the rail union’s disruptive industrial action and massive wage demands, with some suggesting the representative organisation “read the room”.

Hundreds of readers have expressed outrage over the Rail, Tram, and Bus Union’s (RTBU) industrial action and wage demands, with many accusing the organisation of greed and disconnect from public sentiment.

The Rail, Tram, and Bus Union’s (RTBU) demand for a 32 per cent pay increase over four years, which could see the average Sydney train driver’s package hit nearly $200,000, has sparked heated reactions among The Daily Telegraph readers, with transport disruptions expected to escalate ahead of Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Furious readers vented their frustrations online.

“How on earth does a train driver think they’re entitled to $200k,” Anthony commented on The Daily Telegraph article.

“Read the room, unions, not a single person is on your side here,” Andrew said.

Commuters board the few running trains from Central station as many platforms remain closed as industrial work continues at Central Station in Sydney. Picture: Tom Parrish

Others compared the demands to the pay of essential workers.

“Train drivers should not be paid more than nurses or the police,” Terry said.

“There are far more people deserving this rate of pay, including nurses, police, firefighters, etc,” Sue wrote.

The RTBU’s industrial action, which includes slowing train speeds, refusing to unclog toilets and not cleaning graffiti, has already caused significant delays and cancellations in recent days.

Minister for Transport Jo Haylen said the new bans would see further cancellation of train services. Picture: NewsWire / John Appleyard

Transport for NSW estimates the bans could lead to the cancellation of hundreds of services on New Year’s Eve, with some hospitality businesses and event organisers lodging complaints with the Fair Work Commission.

“Tell them they are joking, get driverless trains asap,” Jane said.

“Maybe give the trains to the unions, just see how long they can afford their own demands,” Lawrence added.

“Try being a bricklayer and do the hard work they do. Unbelievable the money they demand,” John said.

Fewer trains are running as industrial work continues at Central Station in Sydney. Picture: Tom Parrish

“Unions … running the country,” Gary said.

“Tell him he’s dreaming!! Don’t cave in, Minns,” another user commented.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Premier Chris Minns have urged the RTBU to reconsider industrial action.

“The NYE fireworks showcase Sydney to the world, and people need reliable transport,” Mr. Albanese said.

The NSW Government has already rejected union calls for free public transport, pointing out the $127 million monthly cost to taxpayers.

It has also filed an application with the Fair Work Commission to have industrial bans lifted.

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Originally published as Sydney passengers furious at rail union’s pay demands, train disruptions