Commuters to be hit by more tram strikes from next week

Tram strikes are set to hit Melbourne later this month as the state’s public transport union continues to battle over its latest workplace agreement. Find out how your commute will be affected.

TRAM strikes are set to hit Melbourne’s network again as the state’s public transport union continues to battle over its latest workplace agreement.

Negotiations have been running since early this year but the two are yet to reach a breakthrough and will push on with work stoppages planning over coming weeks.

Operational staff will work off the job between 10am and 2pm on November 28 and December 5, with services to be impacted on either side of the disruptions.

Yarra Trams chief executive Nicolas Gindt said recent negotiations had been productive but the union had still decided to push ahead with strike plans.

“It is unnecessary and unhelpful for the RTBU to halt progress by taking further industrial action,” he said.

“We remain committed to continuing negotiations to reach a positive outcome.

“However, should industrial action occur, we will work to reduce the impact as best we can and will keep passengers informed.

“We’ve already made two good offers including reasonable wage increases, but the RTBU refuse to discuss opportunities to offer people part-time work or improve rosters for our people.”

The RTBU came to the table in March asking for a 6 per cent pay rise year on year but negotiations have also centred around a Yarra Trams push to lift the current cap on part-time employees.

RTBU state secretary Luba Grigorovitch said morale was low among public transport staff.

”As Yarra Trams take a swipe at working conditions, the minister continues to be missing in action,” she said.

“The RTBU will not hesitate to take whatever measures necessary to speak with commuters about the poor performance of private transport operators

“RTBU members are united in pursuit of a fair deal that delivers safe and reliable services to commuters and secure working conditions for staff

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