NSW rail workers agree to state government pay rise offer, ending network chaos
More than a million commuters will enjoy two days of fare-free travel across the rail and metro network, with the state government celebrating the end of a year of chaos.
NSW
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More than a million commuters will enjoy two days of fare-free travel across the rail and metro network with the Minns government throwing open the gates to mark the end of a year of chaos.
Passengers will travel for free for 48 hours from Thursday July 31 to Friday August 1 after more than 10,000 rail workers signed off on a pay deal with the government on Saturday, ending their months-long industrial dispute.
The decision to host fare-free travel during the busiest time of the week also comes after The Daily Telegraph slammed the government for previously offering fare-free travel on a Monday, when the network is quietest.
NSW Transport Minister John Graham said the relief acknowledged the public was “strained to breaking point” during months of strikes and disruptions, while the free travel will also encourage people to get out and support businesses that were “collateral damage”.
“More than a million people will be able to travel free on the rail network across the state and we want them to use the chance to get out and about and support our cafes, lunch spots, restaurants and after work venues,” Mr Graham said.
“Some of these businesses took a big hit during the period of disruption and they deserve a shot in the arm.
“We want to acknowledge the period of protected industrial action took its toll on rail passengers but today we also look forward with optimism.”
More than 92 per cent of rail workers supported the new agreement on Saturday after it was put to a vote more than a month after the government and unions struck the deal.
It means rail workers will receive a 12 per cent pay rise over three years plus back pay, after the unions backed down from their original 32 per cent demand.
Once the agreement is approved by the Fair Work Commission, Sydney Trains, NSW TrainLink and the rail workforce intend to “focus solely” on improving reliability and services.
Sydney Trains chief executive Matt Longland called the deal a “win for our staff, but an even bigger win for the travelling public.”
“With this certainty, Sydney Trains can resume its focus on delivering a safe, reliable, and disruption-free service and passengers can have renewed confidence that the trains they rely on will be there when they need them,” Mr Longland said.
During the fare-free period, which has been set at the end of the month to avoid a clash with school holidays, Opal gates will be opened and readers will be turned off so commuters don’t have to tap on or off.
Metro and heavy rail lines, including the Airport Link and regional NSW TrainLink services, will be part of the free offer, but charges will remain in place on buses, ferries and the light rail.
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Originally published as NSW rail workers agree to state government pay rise offer, ending network chaos
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