Sydney train commuters face potential disruptions as unions threaten industrial action
Sydney train commuters may face disruptions as unions threaten a go-slow action in a wage dispute with the NSW government, demanding fare refunds for January travel disruptions.
Sydney train commuters are experiencing increased uncertainty as rail unions announce plans for fresh industrial action amid an ongoing wage dispute with the NSW government.
The Rail, Bus and Trams Union has threatened to implement a go-slow on Sydney trains next week if the Minns government fails to refund train fares for commuters affected by work bans in January.
The unions are demanding that all NSW rail commuters receive refunds for travel between January 13 and 17, during which the network experienced significant disruptions due to negotiations.
On Wednesday, the NSW government stated that refunds would not be issued, but a fare-free day would be offered following the finalisation of the wage dispute with the unions.
The Rail, Tram and Bus Union announced that a new round of go-slow action would occur between February 12 and 26.
According to the new action plan, trains will operate at 23km/h below the speed limit in areas where the speed limit is 80kph or higher.
This latest threat comes just a day after Jo Haylen, the minister responsible for negotiations, resigned from her position as transport minister.
The NSW government, along with Sydney and NSW Trains, has sought intervention under Section 424 of the Fair Work Act to cancel the unions' protected action, citing concerns for public welfare and potential economic damage.
Last month, unions agreed to limit industrial action until February 28, following commitments made to the Fair Work Commission by the ETU, RTBU, and three other rail unions.
A spokesperson for the NSW government noted that the RTBU had made "binding undertakings to the Fair Work Commission regarding industrial action".
"However, we will closely monitor the situation to ensure the union adheres to those commitments," the spokesperson added.
Seven unions, representing 13,000 Sydney Trains employees, have been engaged in a prolonged pay dispute with the Minns government that has lasted for eight months.
