Update on bargaining and protected industrial action

We have had constructive discussions with the RTBU and both parties are committed to moving forward. We have come to a mutual agreement that will allow us to return to the bargaining table, to progress negotiations through the next six weeks. During this time, the RTBU has withdrawn the bans they notified on 9 March and have also agreed not to take any new actions through this period.

The actions that were lifted are:

  • Train crew only working master roster
  • Ban on train crew accepting altered working
  • Ban on issuing transpositions
  • Ban on train crew accepting transposition slips

The RTBU’s “Fare Free Friday” bans have been paused for Friday 25 March 2022. There will be ongoing discussions between Government and the RTBU on this.

While this is good news for our customers who have been battling disruption for months, some tough decisions had to be made to reach this outcome.

As part of the discussions, and the mutual agreement we came to with the RTBU, a moderate increase in financial benefits for Intercity drivers and guards was agreed to, but it also required the removal of the NSW TrainLink customer facing model at this time.

Here at NSW TrainLink, we, and I personally, recognise and value the important role our on-boarders and station staff play in our customers’ journeys. The change to the customer facing model from our EA offering will be hard for some of us, and it is hugely disappointing as it was intended to lift the base pay of those who lean in to our customers every day. It will remain as an option to pursue during the life of the agreement, through usage of the facilitation clause.

I will keep you updated over the coming weeks as we continue working with the unions and our independent bargaining representatives for an outcome for our people that will move us closer to a vote. 

I appreciate your patience and resilience during what continues to be a difficult time for all of us. Please reach out to your manager should you have any questions, otherwise you can always contact the EA team NSWTLEA@transport.nsw.gov.au.

Take care,

Dale