Sydney faces train actions
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Sydney's train system teeters on chaos, as unions and government clash over fares and pay.
Sydney commuters may face significant disruptions, with potential delays and a shutdown of a major train line, as negotiations between the NSW Government and the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) remain unresolved.
The union has threatened to escalate its industrial action if an agreement is not reached over key demands, which include safety concerns about the metro conversion of the T3 line.
The RTBU and NSW government have been locked in talks regarding a new enterprise agreement for train drivers and the planned metro conversion of the T3 Bankstown line.
The project involves transforming the segment between Sydenham and Bankstown into a driverless train route. The union strongly opposes the change, citing safety issues.
According to the RTBU, the union’s concerns are not about job losses for drivers but about safety risks, particularly as the line will operate next to freight trains.
The union is also pushing for the government to adopt a 50-cent fare policy for public transport users, a scheme recently introduced in Queensland.
RTBU NSW Secretary Toby Warnes has criticised the NSW government's handling of public transport, accusing it of neglecting the system.
“In Queensland they’re giving commuters 50 cent fares and improving services, yet here in NSW we’re making commuters pay more for fewer services,” Warnes said.
The industrial action, which began this week, has already caused disruptions, with union members refusing to work outside their planned rosters or adjust to altered timetables.
This is likely to affect Sydney’s weekend sporting events, including NRL and AFL finals at Moore Park, as fans rely on trains to access Allianz Stadium and the Sydney Cricket Ground.
A major point of contention is the metro conversion of the T3 line.
The RTBU has warned that it may completely shut down the line if the government proceeds with its plan to close the Sydenham to Bankstown segment from 30 September.
The closure, expected to last over a year, would force the government to rely on replacement buses to serve commuters along the route.
Adding to the tension, the RTBU is advocating for a multi-employer bargaining approach, a provision introduced by the Albanese government in 2022, which would allow train drivers to negotiate pay alongside Sydney light rail employees.
The union is allegedly seeking an 8 per cent annual pay increase in any new agreement with the Minns government.
Transport for NSW has apologised to commuters, warning that train services may be cancelled at short notice.
The department has promised to provide updates on service plans as the situation develops.