Tram strike plans suspended as union weighs up new pay offer

The Rail, Tram, and Bus Union called off the planned action after a breakthrough in negotiations with Torrens Connect on Monday night.

The Rail, Tram, and Bus Union is considering a new deal with Torrens Connect, which employs drivers, on a pay rise after rejecting its initial offer of 12.5 per cent over three years.

The union initially demanded a 21 per cent pay increase over three years.

After a breakthrough in negotiations on Monday night, the RTBU has called off a planned tram strike during peak hours on Wednesday.

The new offer will be put to the union members before the meeting with Torrens Connect on Friday.

A tram at the King William Street stop in the Adelaide CBD. Picture: Tricia Watkinson

Tram drivers have gone on strike on two occasions in the past two weeks.

SA/NT Secretary Darren Phillips said tram workers were seeking a decent pay rise and a change in the use of split shifts.

“It was disappointing that workers had to resort to industrial action to get Torrens Connect to take the issue of pay seriously,” Mr Phillips said.

“Public transport workers are passionate about their industry and take their responsibilities to the travelling public seriously, so industrial action is always a last resort.

“We can assure all tram users that services are now back to normal while members consider the offer.

“Tram workers will now consider the revised offer from Torrens Connect before deciding on their next steps.”

A spokesman for the union said a deadlock in negotiations with Torrens Connect initially led to a strike on Wednesday, which has been cancelled as talks continue.