‘Resounding blow’ Tully sugar mill workers get set to strike over wage dispute

The AWU has warned saying the strikes “can now take action during preparations for … peak earning season”.

Tully Sugar Mill workers look set to strike after rejecting a pay offer.

Tully Sugar workers have voted in favour of industrial action against their employer, which could include strikes for up to 48 hours at a time, the Australian Workers Union has warned, saying the strikes “can now take action during … peak earning season”.

Workers have rejected an 11.8 per cent pay rise from Tully Sugar and voted to take industrial action when the company rejected their calls for a 24 per cent increase over the next three years.

An AWU spokeswoman said that Tully’s 11.8 per cent offer was “offensively low” and “barely be in line with the CPI current increases by the end of three year deal”.

Stacey Schinnerl from the Australian Workers Union aka AWU. Picture: Australian Workers' Union – Queensland Branch/Facebook

“The AWU is asking for a deal that keeps workers’ heads above water with current cost of living pressures.”

Because the ballot was successful, union members will now have the option to take legally protected strike action at the sugar mill in the lead up to negotiation of a new pay deal, AWU Queensland branch secretary Stacey Schinnerl said.

“Our members are tired of waiting – Tully’s current offer is unacceptable and workers are drawing a line in the sand,” Ms Schinnerl said.

“This vote shows that we are serious about a fair pay rise.”

She said the successful ballot means that Tully can anticipate being hit with industrial action during this year’s crush season.

Tully Sugar Workers say the offer is "offensive".

It will also mean workers can take industrial action during the pre-crushing season steam trials, which are integral to preparing the mill for its peak earning season.

Ms Schinnerl said that workers were frustrated with the progress of negotiations.

“Sugar communities know that these corporations are making record profits. They know that Tully can give its workers the pay rise they deserve.”

Other potential industrial action includes bans on performing overtime, call outs, and use of keys and computer equipment, the AWU warned.

Tully Sugar was contacted for comment.

Originally published as ‘Resounding blow’ Tully sugar mill workers get set to strike over wage dispute