NT government, NT Fire and Emergency Services agree to firefighter crewing change

Following a ‘hostile’ negotiation with the government, Territorian union members have emerged from another tough workplace dispute victorious. However, a union representative says “much more is needed”.

Union members have been battling for extra numbers to man firefighter crews in Darwin and Alice Springs.

Union members have successfully fought to have firefighter crewing numbers increase following “hostile” and “hard negotiations” with the government.

From July 1, 2024, an additional two members will be added to safety crews in both Darwin and Alice Springs.

United Workers Union NT secretary Erina Early said the reinforced crews were hard fought for.

“These historical crewing increases come off the back of the hard negotiations from firefighter union members in the last protracted and hostile enterprise agreement negotiations with the NT government and NT Fire and Emergency Services,” she said.

Ms Early said the subtle difference would improve safety for both emergency responders and the public.

“Today is a day of achievement from our Territorian firefighters – an increase to crewing levels provides safety to our fire fighters and to the community,” she said.

“Our hard working and dedicated firefighters fought hard to have improved crewing levels in their enterprise agreement and today these safety improvements will now be introduced.”

Ms Early claimed “more” was needed to support firefighters, particularly in the Red Centre.

“The increase (in) numbers are unlikely to be enough to solve all of the crewing problems and resources in Alice Springs,” she said.

“Much more is needed, a least for the first time in over 15 years, a significant change to crewing numbers is taking place, for the betterment of firefighters safety and the community in Alice Springs.”