Rail strike aborted as union gets 17 per cent pay deal over four years

Strikes that would have caused commuter chaos across Melbourne have been called off – thanks to a 17 per cent pay rise for rail workers.

The train strikes were due to be held this Friday and Wednesday next week.

Train strikes planned for later this week and next week on Melbourne’s metropolitan rail network have been called off after a deal was struck between the union and Metro Trains.

Management and the Rail Tram and Bus Union have agreed to a pay increase of 17 per cent over four years plus changes to working conditions.

The four-hour stoppages were due to be held this Friday and Wednesday next week between 10am and 2pm.

RTBU Secretary Vik Sharma described the agreement as a “great outcome” for members.

The agreement will cover drivers, signallers, station staff, authorised officers, train control plus other administrative and operational roles.

Metro Trains’ CEO Raymond O’Flaherty said train operations would not be disrupted on those two days.

“We are pleased to have reached a fair and mutually beneficial agreement with the RTBU and provide certainty for our Rail Operations Division employees,” he said.

The union said the agreement addressed issues such as job security, work-life balance, safety and equality in the workplace.

Separate workplace agreement negotiations are taking place between the union and both Yarra Trams and V/Line.