Train strikes loom as rail union backs push for industrial action

Melbourne’s rail network is a step closer to painful strikes. Drivers could stop checking tickets or walk off the job for as long as 48 hours over pay, arguing for more than the current $102,900 base package.

Metro staff have overwhelmingly backed a push for industrial action on Melbourne’s rail network, with the state’s powerful public transport union poised to go on strike over a new pay deal.

About 99 per cent of members balloted by the RTBU voted in favour of seeking industrial action after results of a company-wide vote were counted on Monday.

Under an application made to the Fair Work Commission, union members could choose to stop checking tickets or walk off the job for as long as 48 hours.

An enterprise agreement for Metro’s operational staff expired at the start of July and union delegates will meet this week to discuss the next step in its campaign.

Staff have overwhelmingly backed a push for industrial action on Melbourne’s rail network.

RTBU state secretary Luba Grigorovitch said negotiations were now in their fifth month.

“With 99 per cent of members who voted endorsing industrial action it is clear members are frustrated by Metro’s tactics and aggressive attacks on hard won conditions,” she said.

“Our members will be making efforts to minimise the impact on the travelling public, sharpening the focus on the company where it hurts most.”

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Workers could also refuse to work overtime and participate in testing of new technology being introduced to the public transport system.

A base pay for a fully-trained Metro driver is believed to be $102,900 and an average package is understood to be more than $140,000 once overtime and shift allowances are added.

A Metro spokesman said industrial action was “completely unnecessary”.

“An agreement can be reached around the negotiating table without disrupting our passengers,” he said.

“We continue to negotiate in good faith with the union to reach a fair and reasonable outcome.”

An Andrews Government spokeswoman said:

“This is a matter for the parties, who we urge to negotiate in good faith.”