RTBU seeks industrial action over pay dispute with Metro Trains

A war on Melbourne’s train network could hit commuters hard, with the union seeking stoppages from four to 48 hours after pay talks soured. But the average package drivers already receive might surprise you.

The RTBU is seeking industrial action which may impact train services over its latest wage negotiations.

Melbourne’s powerful public transport union could grind the city’s rail network to a halt once more as it goes to war with Metro Trains over a new pay deal.

RTBU state secretary Luba Grigorovitch tonight lodged an application with the Fair Work Commission to launch industrial action after negotiations soured over a new enterprise agreement.

The union will seek permission for stoppages, stretching from four hours to 48 hours, for RTBU members and could also refuse to check tickets, make announcements or wear uniforms on the job.

The decision is expected to sail through a vote of union members and action could begin within a month.

It comes after the union initially came to the negotiating table in April asking for a 6 per cent pay rise for staff year on year.

The Andrews Government’s latest wages policy capped public servant payrises at 2 per cent.

In 2015, Ms Grigorovitch was the first RTBU leader to launch a train strike since 1997 and authorities fear a repeat is likely as both parties struggle to reach an agreement.

Secretary of the Rail Tram and Bus Union Luba Grigorovitch. Picture: Ian Currie

Since then, patronage has soared and there are now 240.9 million trips on metropolitan trains every year.

“With management at odds with the bargaining team on many key claims, delegates are frustrated by Metro’s posturing and want to see progress towards a new agreement,” Ms Grigorovitch said.

“Our members have made it very clear that their priority is to retain current conditions and achieve a wage increase that recognises cost of living and value of their labour contribution. “So long as Metro frustrates this process members are forced to ensure they are taken seriously in negotiation.”

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It is understood the average package for a Melbourne train driver is now more than $140,000 a year.

The union may also refuse to engage in practices that allow Metro to record better performance results and receive government bonuses.

A government spokeswoman said: “It’s a matter between the operators and their workforce and we urge all parties to work towards an agreement.”

A spokesman for Metro Trains said: “We continue to negotiate in good faith and are confident we can arrive at a mutually beneficial agreement.

“This is about delivering a modern agreement that delivers the services Melburnians want and deserve.”