VOLUME 108 No.4 December 2016
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How Pacific National Stole Christmas
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RAIL & ROAD is the official journal of the NSW Branch of the Rail, Tram RAIL & ROAD is the official journal of the NSW Branch of the Rail, Tram and and Bus Union and is produced as part of the union’s communication Bus Union and is produced as part of the union’s communication strategy strategy to inform and report on matters of interest to members. to inform and report on matters of interest to members. All editorial and advertising inquiries should be addressed to Peter O’Connor Telephone: 0430 188 116 e-mail: poconnor@rtbu-nsw.asn.au All editorial and advertising inquiries should be addressed to Peter Printing - Brightset, Banksmeadow, (02) 9316 4800 O’Connor Telephone: (02)- 9264 2511 e-mail: poconnor@rtbu-nsw.asn.au Art & Design - P Design proberson@hotmail.com - Phone 0402 032 949
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From the Branch Secretary As we approach the festive holiday season, this issue of the journal highlights some of the achievements and developments in key areas of the industry, from the Tram & Bus Division taking the lead in the fight against privatisation of bus services, wins for train drivers in their ongoing uniform saga, to new EA negotiations in Pacific National and their ‘gift’ of pre-christmas redundancies, new negotiations with ARTC, the ongoing debate over privatisation of Newcastle public transport services, the Delegates Forum on Sydney Trains ‘Future Operations’ reforms, and the range of issues that continue to be the focus of our union and our industry. Privatisation of transport services remains at the top of the agenda. While the government pushes ahead with its tendering for an ‘integrated’ Newcastle transport system, we are hearing increasingly more announcements on privatisation of a wide range of transport services and infrastructure. Our union is in the forefront of campaigns and activities to raise awareness and to defend and maintain public transport services. Similarly, earlier concerns raised about the NSW Government decision to tender the design and
manufacture of the new intercity train fleet to South Korea, and operate them as driver only trains, are being vindicated by reports that this will cost the NSW economy many millions of dollars in lost opportunities and jobs, as well as reports that some of the rolling stock won’t be fit to operate on parts of the rail network. This issue of the journal also reports on the Federal Government being able to push through its antiunion legislation on the Registered Organisations Commission and Australian Building and Construction Commission, with the support of the Nick Xenophon Team and Senator Derryn Hinch. The Locomotive Division held a successful Delegates Conference in November, which was attended by international Transport union representatives. From the U.K our guests included Mick Whelan, Dave Calfe and Hugh Bradley (ASLEF) and Brian Pasco (RMT) and our New Zealand comrades from the RMTU – Howard Phillips, Barry Simpkins and Todd Valstra. When we look at the experiences of our comrades in the UK, New Zealand and elsewhere, some common and shared experiences are fairly evident. If we assume the
day to day work of negotiating and enforcing our industrial instruments and agreements on the job, and dealing with recalcitrant employers as a given and we then put together a quick list of issues facing our industries we see a pattern • Privatisation and public ownership of transport • Reductions in the workforce • Closures of Rail Lines • Health and safety of the workforce and transport users • Guards on Trains and Driver Only Operations • Manufacture of rail rolling stock offshore and creating and maintaining local jobs The conference gave delegates the opportunity to both share these experiences as well as formulate effective responses and strategies. While our issues do not take a break for the festive season, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our members and delegates for the tremendous effort you have put in to protect and build your rights at work this year and wish you all a merry Christmas and a safe happy New Year.
In this Issue Industrial News New Shoes While You Get the Boot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 ARTC NSW Infrastructure EA Negotiations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Sydney Trains Future Operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Industrial Notes Aurizon Threatens Job Loss. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Big Uniform Win After Long Battle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Sydney Trains Stations Consultative Committee . . . . . . . . . . . 8 General News National Day of Respect for Public Transport Workers. . . . . . . 9 More NSW Transport Blowouts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Light Rail Under Heavy Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Blacktown Memorial Workers Garden. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Transport Workers Honour Fallen Brisbane Bus Driver. . . . . . 11 RTBU Says No to Violence Against Women . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 International Transport Unions Attend Loco Conference. . . . . 13 ABCC and ROC Bills Debated in Senate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Registered Organisations Bill a Blow to Workers . . . . . . . . . . 15 Campaign Trail WCC Meet with Sydney Trains on ‘Modesty Kit’. . . . . . . . . . . 18 Unions Protest Threat of Public Transport Privatisation. . . . . 18 Safety Matters Chaos Ensues as Bus Fire Brings Sydney to Standstill. . . . . . 19 Public Safety Should be Priority for New Metro West Railway . . 20 Sydney Trains Reps Win Right to Professional Training . . . . . 20 Whistlestop
Industrial News New Shoes While You Get the Boot! Amidst all the angst and hurt Pacific National are dishing out to employees through redundancy announcements, we recently found out PN’s HR team have been busy boasting to the corporate world of its “HOT innovation area: RECRUITMENT” and its program titled, “TIME FOR NEW SHOES”.
It would be laughable if it was not so serious. The RTBU has had several discussions with Pacific National in an effort to limit the impact of redundancy on members and their families; however, so far it appears the company is more interested in looking at legal technicalities to get out of their obligations rather than to try and redeploy by way of VR swaps. It has refused to look at any VR swaps to the Intermodal Division and is only allowing swaps at limited areas within individual EA’s. For example, they will not allow a swap from a Coal depot to a Bulk depot even when the depots are next door to each other. It seems rather ironic that the company recently agreed to commence EA negotiations for one EA across both Coal and Bulk groups but won’t allow employees to swap VR between the two areas, particularly when they both belong to the one business group. We can only assume
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How Pacific National Stole Xmas
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that PN’s stance is as its recruitment program suggests it is not about retaining its employees and valuing them, it is about giving you the boot and bringing in “NEW SHOES” of the casual variety! After lodging a dispute, the RTBU met with PN Management before the Fair Work Commission. The intended retrenchments at Port Kembla were a priority issue. The RTBU wrote to the company seeking clarification on the company’s position as it was still unclear. We received calls from Port Kembla members saying they had been called into a meeting as they had been identified as being made redundant. This has taken us by surprise as it is not what was discussed and committed to by the company.
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ARTC NSW Infrastructure Enterprise Agreement Negotiations 2016 Your representatives, the RTBU and ARTC met on Tuesday, 15th November 2016 to present responses to both parties log of claims provided on Tuesday, 1st November 2016. Through our discussions, we only managed to get agreement on a review of the classification structure, commitment to discuss the establishment of consultative committees and the length of the agreement (3 Year Term). We were presented with a drawn out ‘No’ response to every other claim. After each response provided by ARTC, the representatives enquired as to what ARTC’s counter position was on all of our claims, considering this is a negotiation. ARTC had no formal counter position and said they would supply their proposal in our next meeting. The RTBU presented arguments to ARTC’s responses, and provided proposals for Scheduled Career Progression, a Training and Assessment Clause, a Disciplinary Procedure and Matters Clause and a Domestic Violence Leave Clause. ARTC has taken a copy of these proposals for consideration. The RTBU could not provide responses to ARTC’s log of claims as no particulars were provided. Our key focus was ARTC’s claim to review the current Rostering clause within your agreement. The RTBU asked ARTC for more information as to what specific items they want to review in the clause. ARTC stated that this information would be supplied in our next meeting. For your information, the following is ARTC’s responses to your log of claims; Increase of 4% per annum to pay, allowances and expenses: ARTC does not support a 4% salary increase to pay, allowances and expenses as it calculates a cost imposition over the proposed three year term of the Agreement to be approximately $3,184,130. 3 Year Agreement: ARTC agrees with this claim. Classification Structure Review: ARTC will engage in discussions regarding a review of the Classification Structure during the bargaining process Scheduled Career Progression: ARTC cannot agree to this proposal in relation to progression as it is based on seniority and length of time in the role, rather than any assessment of work complexity/competency. In addition, the proposal is at odds with the Workplace Bargaining Policy 2015 which states that existing pay scales are not to be modified to provide mechanisms to accelerate salary advancement.
RAIL & ROAD December 2016
Training Plans: ARTC believes that the current arrangements for training and development are managed well at the local level and does not propose to change this process. Superannuation Increases: ARTC is currently paying in line with the legislation increases, which is 9.5%. The next proposed increase to the Superannuation Guarantee rate is in July 2021 and does not fall within the life of this Agreement. Joint and Local Consultative Committees: ARTC will engage in discussions regarding the establishment of Consultative Committees during the bargaining process Disciplinary Procedure Clause: ARTC believes disciplinary matters are most appropriately dealt with under ARTC’s Disciplinary Procedure. ARTC does not propose to change this process Separate Carer’s Leave and Sick Leave Entitlement: ARTC does not propose to make any changes to the current Personal/Carers or Sick leave clauses Domestic Violence Leave Clause: ARTC supports initiatives to assist victims of domestic violence and has already introduced provisions in relation to this in the ARTC Leave Policy Agreement Format to move away from Q&A: ARTC are not proposing to change the format of the Agreement. ARTC believes the question and answer format is appropriate and simple to navigate and understand. This is reflected in feedback provided to ARTC from employees. The negotiations have only just begun, and will continue for some time, however, your Negotiating Committee considers these responses to your log of claims unacceptable and will continue to fight for your rights. In all log of claims discussions the professionalism and input from the Negotiating Committee was crucial in getting across to ARTC the importance of these issues to RTBU members. They continue to show tremendous unity and knowledge in this bargaining process. You can assist your representatives by providing them with feedback on these communications to support them in any future enterprise agreement negotiation meetings.
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Sydney Trains Future Operations Update: Delegate Forum A combined Delegates Forum was convened in November to receive a presentation from Sydney Trains on the current state of the Future Operations Program (Train Crew Reforms). The forum consisted of both Drivers and Guards Delegates from all Depots. The Sydney Trains presentation contained their proposed changes to the Drivers Rostering and Working Arrangements; most notably an increase in the rostered shift limit from 8 hours and 33 minutes to 8 hours and 50 minutes and increasing the daily kilometre limit from 217 kms to 275 kms. Following the presentation Sydney Trains left allowing the Drivers Delegates to debate and consider how we should proceed. Delegates unanimously resolved the following: • D iscussions should continue based on the RTBU Draft Drivers Rostering and Working
Arrangements previously endorsed by Members and Delegates and provided to Sydney Trains in March this year. • Regular feedback must be provided to Members and Delegates. • Should an outcome be reached consistent with the principles contained within the previously endorsed RTBU Draft Drivers Rostering and Working Arrangements a Delegates meeting and Depot Tour will be conducted to determine if an in-principle agreement can be reached. • In-principle agreement can only be given if a proposal/package is endorsed by both Members and Delegates.
• S hould in-principle agreement be reached this will allow for the formal voting process as contained within clause 12.8 Sydney Trains 2014 Enterprise Agreement. Discussion between the Locomotive Division and the Sydney Trains core groups recommenced on Tuesday 15 November. Members will continue to be informed as developments occur. You shouldn’t hesitate to contact your delegate, the Divisional Office and or send an email to the dedicated RTBU Member email address: sydneytrainsreform@rtbu-nsw.asn.au Unless you hear it and or see it in writing from the union, it is probably a rumour.
To all RTBU Members and their families
Merry Christmas
and a
Happy New Year
Get on the Bus Express! Bus Express is constantly updated with new information from around the depots – including workplace disputes, industry updates and news about RTBU Members. Members who subscribe to the web site get a fortnightly email with links to all the latest scoops. Printed newsletters will also be distributed around depots.
www.busexpress.com.au Page 6 RAIL & ROAD December 2016
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Industrial Notes Aurizon threatens job loss Aurizon is threatening to cut around 800 jobs Australia wide over the next three years as it seeks to slash over $350 million over the next three years. The 800 jobs would be on top of the 3000 jobs already lost in recent years.
Big uniform win after long battle
After a long and protracted battle, the much despised Sydney Trains driver’s shirt is set to go. We’ve been advised that the shirt will be replaced with a similar material weave as that of the old “City Rail” shirt. This is a fantastic outcome as the poor quality material of the Sydney Trains shirt was a cause of great distress for many of our members. We are also in discussions about shorts and polo shirts. The Loco Division is pushing for the incredibly well received polo shirt adopted as part of the standard uniform allocation and not just a one off allotment.
RTBU Queensland Branch Secretary Owen Doogan says the union has scheduled talks with the company over the job losses, and is particularly concerned about the depot closures in areas like Rockhampton because they are particularly efficient operations.
Aurizon’s move is possible because of the Fair Work Commission’s recent decision to allow the company to terminate a dozen enterprise agreements. The terms and conditions, which included a no forced redundancy clause, went with them.
Sydney Trains Stations Consultative Committee The quarterly scheduled consultative meeting with Sydney Trains was delayed as a result of the last staff review, and the re-scheduled consultative meeting was held on to the 17th October 2016. The agenda is led by issues that were tabled at the Station Wages Sub-Divisional meetings and by individual members via their delegates. The agenda of the quarterly meeting was very extensive as a consequence of the delay in scheduling this meeting. There were many issues that were addressed but it is worth noting that a number of items remain outstanding due to time constraints of the meeting. Some of the issues that were raised by the RTBU, were discussed and the response is summarised below: • Currently no trauma policy. Sydney Trains don’t believe this is a priority. The matter has gone to Step 3 in the Dispute Process • Sydney Trains not providing comfort breaks. Undertaking by
Sydney Trains to remind SCMs of their responsibilities to provide a comfort break. Members will monitor and advise if breaks not being provided. Need to establish next in chain of command between CSA and SDM, if SDM not available, in case of emergency. Station staff to be advised • Station staff are concerned about IV (Independent Verifier) results being used against them. Sydney Trains response that these should highlight when staff do a good job, and that they will pass on compliments to staff for IV results • Sydney Trains disregarding the consultation clause in EA. Sydney Trains will remind managers of their obligations to consult and follow EA. Members to monitor and advise.
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General News National Day of Respect for Public Transport Workers The first National Day of Respect for Public Transport Workers was launched on Wednesday the 9th November 2016. This was organised by the RTBU and the Transport Workers Union. Part of the purpose of this day is to pay respect to Brisbane bus driver Manmeet Alisher who was tragically murdered on the 28th October 2016, and to draw public attention to the risk that public transport workers are exposed to by simply doing their job. Public transport workers have been enduring an increase of abusive and violent attacks right across Australia. The figures for 2016 illustrate an increase of this antisocial behaviour against our hard working members for doing their jobs. Members including Station Staff, Transport Officers, Bus Drivers and even Maintenance
and Infrastructure workers are not immune to this kind of behaviour. Manmeet’s death must not be in vain. As an initial step the RTBU is bringing awareness to the general public. On Wednesday the 9th the RTBU were joined by United Voice and Sydney Alliance in handing out pamphlets to commuters requesting they ‘Say thanks to your bus driver’. It was reported that some very supportive commuters who had previously left their bus, re-joined the bus to say thanks to the driver before hopping off to continue their walk to their workplaces. The RTBU will be making this a yearly event to draw the public attention to the risks that public transport workers are exposed to on a daily basis.
More NSW transport blowouts as northern beaches bus project cost doubles The Sydney Morning Herald reports: The cost of a planned bus corridor through Sydney’s lower north shore and northern beaches has almost doubled after government authorities neglected to consider the cost of buying land. The bus service to the northern beaches – once called “Bus Rapid Transit” but, with services not expected to be particularly rapid, now called “B-Line” – is expected to progressively open from next year. But documents obtained by Fairfax
Media show the steady escalation in the costs of the project, and doubts about the level of benefits it will deliver. The project, as announced in the Northern Beaches Transport Action Plan of 2014, was expected to cost $305 million. That was an increase on an earlier budget of $222 million. But the project’s cost has since risen to almost $600 million. On numbers announced in the July budget, the program will cost at least $512 million.
RAIL & ROAD December 2016
An “assurance review report” of the bus program’s business case, prepared last year, sheds some light on why costs of the project have continued to increase.
An artist’s impression shows a new B-Line style bus
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Light Rail under heavy pressure Just months after securing a better deal for light rail drivers, Divisional Secretary Chris Preston is again calling for a better deal on the cities network, this time for passengers. Mr Preston joined calls in the Inner West Courier for Transport for NSW to boost funding to Transdev to deliver more light rail services. “Even one extra tram is a step in the right direction,” Mr Preston said. “There needs to be more funding for some additional services.”
Morning and afternoon services are unable to keep up with demand, even after 90 additional services were added earlier this year. While that means an extra 3,700 passengers each day, it is still falling well behind the 6,300 spots needed. With new lines and services due to come online soon, now is not the time that the government should be cheaping out on supporting light rail.
Sydney buses losing millions due to Opal failure President of the RTBU Tram and Bus Division David Woollams told 7 News that bus drivers have given up reporting the faults, because there are just so many. “This is Sydney’s public transport give-away, there’s millions of dollars of free rides given away to commuters,” said Mr Woollams. The 7 News investigation found Sydney buses are losing millions of dollars due to a failing Opal card system.
RTBU Tram and Bus Division BBQ’s The Bus and Tram Division starting holding BBQ this year at various Bus Depots around Sydney. The BBQs were an opportunity for members to give feedback to Division President David Woollams and Secretary Chris Preston. The BBQs give the union a chance to update members on what’s happening with the Division, and listen to what members have to say and give them an opportunity to be heard.
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Blacktown Memorial Worker’s Garden International Workers Memorial Day is held annually on the 28th April. What if you went to work one day and never came home? Sadly, that is the reality for more than 45 Australians who have been killed in workplace accidents this year alone. To honour those who have lost their lives due to workplace illness or injury every year special memorial services are held. Many show their respect by attending various International Workers Memorial Day services around the world by mourning the dead while fighting for the living. Did you know that International Labour Organisation (ILO) world-wide statistics show? Each year, more than two million men and women die as a result of work-related accidents and disease. Workers suffer approximately 270 million accidents each year, and fall victim to some 160 million incidents of related illnesses. Hazardous substances kill 440,000 workers annually and asbestos claims 100,000 lives. One worker dies every 15 seconds worldwide. 6,000 workers die every day. More people die while at work than those fighting wars.
Local memorial events are also held around Sydney including Blacktown where various dignitaries gave their time for those who have suffered. Now, Blacktown Drivers have sought their own reflections with the placement of their own memorial within the new Blacktown precinct. The plaque is designed as a permanent memorial to men and women killed as a result of work-related accidents and disease.
Transport workers honour fallen Brisbane bus driver On November 4, roughly 400 transport workers, many of them RTBU members, paid their respects to Manmeet Sharma and his family. NSW Bus Division Secretary Chris Preston attended on behalf of RTBU NSW. The Brisbane bus driver was killed while picking up passengers at a bus stop in late October and was remembered as a hardworking and honest man dedicated to his community. Bus drivers across Australia also drove with their lights on in a mark of respect to Manmeet. Many drivers also wore black arm bands. The shock and outpouring of grief across our community continued with a National Day of Respect for Public Transport Workers, held on Wednesday 9 November 2016.
Merry Christmas
and a
Happy New Year
To all RTBU Members and their families RAIL & ROAD December 2016
Page 11
Bipartisan Approach to Domestic Violence Needed Hundreds have rallied at State Parliament calling on the Premier Mike Baird to support the inclusion of domestic violence leave in the National Employment Standards (NES). The calls came ahead of the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Summit on Reducing Violence against Women and their Children in November. Natalie Lang, NSW/ACT Secretary of Australian Services Union said the union movement has already negotiated for over 1.6 million workers to have access to paid domestic violence leave. However domestic violence leave shouldn’t have to be negotiated, it should be universal. “ASU members, the frontline workers in the community sector, see firsthand the impact domestic violence has on women and families. Universal paid domestic violence leave will save lives,” Ms Lang said.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics estimate around two thirds of women experiencing domestic violence are in the workforce. “On average, 184 incidents of domestic violence are reported in NSW every day. Yet there is no basic entitlement for a worker experiencing such violence to access leave,” Secretary of Unions NSW Mark Morey told the crowd. At the rally Sharan Burrow, General Secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation congratulated the Australian union movement for leading the world on paid domestic violence leave but said more must be done to support women and children living with violence. Opposition Leader Luke Foley committed a future Labor Government to doubling paid domestic violence from five days to ten while at the time of going to print the Premier had failed to do the same.
RTBU Says No to Violence Against Women There was a fantastic turn out on the morning of November 24, at Liverpool Station to raise public awareness around violence against women for White Ribbon Day . RTBU Secretary Alex Claassens, RTBU Organiser Helen Bellette, members of the local indigenous community, Liverpool crew (station, staff, guards, and drivers) and supporters joined together to say no to violence against women and acknowledge the fact that men’s violence against women is everyone's issue. Special thanks to Ragini Naidu (RTBU Guard) who organised the event. 25 November is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women White Ribbon Day. Get involved and spread the word! To find out more go to: www.whiteribbon.org.au/
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International Transport Unions Attend Loco Conference On November 8th and 9th 2016, Locomotive Division Delegates from around the state were joined by union representatives from UK Transport Unions ASLEF (Associated Society of Locomotive Enginemen and Firemen), General Secretary Mick Whelan, and Executive Committee Members Dave Calfe and Hugh Bradley and Brian Pasco from the RMT (National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers) , as well as our New Zealand comrades Howard Phillips, Barry Simpkins and Todd Valster from the RMTU (Rail, Maritime and Transport Union) in Redfern to exchange ideas and shared experiences. Shared experiences Delegates heard of some of the experiences of rail and transport workers from the UK and New Zealand, including the recent victory by ASLEF to prevent Driver Only operations, as well as other freight and passenger experiences in NSW. The experiences of our comrades in the UK, New Zealand and elsewhere, highlight some fairly evident common and shared experiences. If we assume the day to day work of negotiating and enforcing our industrial instruments and agreements on the job, and dealing with recalcitrant employers as a given. If we were then to put together a quick list of issues facing our industries we quickly see a pattern • Privatisation and public ownership of transport • Reductions in the workforce • Closures of Rail Lines • Health and safety of the workforce and transport users • Guards on Trains and Driver Only Operations • Manufacture of rail rolling stock offshore and creating and maintaining local jobs The Conference discussed the issues and challenges that confront our members and our unions. Delegates feedback from the Loco Conference was particularly positive about the opportunity of and understanding that sharing and learning from our experiences, and maintaining solidarity among our members, other unions here and abroad, and developing strong union, public and community alliances we will remain in a strong position to fight the fights that must be fought, and to win our fair share of them. Delegates left the conference confident that they will further strengthen our defence and protection of members and their families.
RAIL & ROAD December 2016
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ABCC and ROC bills debated in Senate The Coalition has listed the IR legislation that it used to trigger this year’s double dissolution election for debate in the Senate on Monday 21 and Tuesday 22 November. The bill to establish the Registered Organisations Commission was debated on Monday 21st, and was passed by the Senate with the support of the Xenophon Team Senators and Senator Darryn Hinch. The legislation to restore the ABCC was debated on Tuesday 22nd without resolution as Rail and Road goes to print. The Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet revealed the plan when it released the draft legislation program for the Senate. It comes as Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has hedged on the timing of the two bills, saying they would be taken to a vote when the government had the best chance of winning support from key crossbenchers. Employment Minister Michaelia Cash argued that registered organisations should be accountable and transparent, given they had annual revenue of $1.5 billion, assets of $2.5 billion and tax-exempt status. "The two million Australians who entrust their money to their union or employer group deserve to know that it is being run honestly and in their best interests," the Minister said.
"The need to strengthen accountability and improve governance is clear. It should be supported by anyone who truly cares for the health of Australian unions and employer organisations." The Government can vary the debate and the timing of a vote on both Bills, but it might choose to test its support by pushing ahead with the ROC legislation. In pushing its case to win support from crossbenchers, the government has stressed the findings and evidence heard by the Heydon Royal Commission. It is highlightng case studies including involving Federal Labor Bill Shorten during his time as AWU national secretary, although the Royal Commission made no findings against him. The Government is also bringing to the attention of the crossbenchers that a labour hire company paid $40,000 in wages for a staffer to work on Shorten's campaign to win the federal seat of Maribyrnong at the 2007 federal election . Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull told journalists earlier in November that the Government would bring on debate on the bills once it was assured of securing their passage, and pending outcomes of court cases against Family First Senator Day and One Nation Senator Culleton.
Premier Baird’s train sell out to cost NSW economy $455 million A new report by the Centre for Future Work , entitled ‘Penny Wise, Pound Foolish’, shows the Baird government’s decision to send building of a new intercity train fleet offshore will cost the NSW economy almost half a billion dollars. It also found that it would ultimately be cheaper to manufacture in Australia, and more than 600 jobs have been wasted in vain.
impacts into consideration. And governments shouldn’t
The Baird government awarded a $2.3 billion contract for 512 new intercity passenger rail cars to a Korean company claiming this was "cheapest".
direct jobs and many more in supply industries). And
Jim Stanford, Economist and Director of the Centre for Future Work said they ignored the negative impact of the decision. “Governments purchase many billions of dollars of goods and services from private firms. But should their main goal be to get the cheapest price possible? Or should it consider other goals – like jobcreation and environmental and labour standards? “A complete cost-benefit analysis should take those broader
just try to “buy cheap.” Rather, procurement decisions should aim to maximize net benefits to the whole economy.” The report documents the economic importance of railway equipment manufacturing in Australia (5000 it shows that offshoring the railway cars could deprive Australian governments of $455 million in forgone revenue – due to lower GDP, employment, and incomes. “That is more than any extra cost associated with manufacturing the equipment in Australia. At a time of high unemployment at home, the Baird government sends this valuable work to Korea. Ironically, it will hurt its own budget in the process.”
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Shorten outlines Labor's post-Trump path Opposition Leader Bill Shorten has championed the social benefits of Labor's support for unions and the minimum wage, contrasting it with the American model as he pitches to working and middle class voters after president-elect Donald Trump's success in galvanising low-income workers. He told Labor's Victorian conference in November that the party now had to "continue and redouble our efforts to appeal to the centre, to appeal to the aspirations of the working and middle class of Australia". Shorten contrasted the "distinctly different economic paths" America and Australia chose 30 years ago. "Instead of Ronald Reagan and trickle-down tax cuts for the very top end – we chose Hawke and Keating. "Kelty and the Accord, we chose to fight for a decent safety net", he said. While in the US, "they chose to drive unions out", Labor worked with them, and with business. He also compared US minimum wages with those of Australia that increase regularly and "keep working people out of poverty". He said the adult minimum wage had grown from $5.60 an hour thirty years ago to $17.70 now. Over the same period, the US minimum increased from $4.43 an hour (US$3.35) to $9.60 (US$7.25). "Those numbers tell the story of the last three decades", he said. Labor, he said, stands up for those "living through the rough edges of economic change", informed by the experience of the US, where "we have witnessed. . . the
long-term decline of the economic security of working people". At the same time, the American middle class had been squeezed, contributing to the rise of the working poor. Shorten told the conference this was partly the result of the lack of an "appreciable social wage" in the US and "30 years of attacking the union movement". He said Australia had not yet arrived at that point, but adopting US-style policies would mean the nation would "invariably go the same way". Labor, he said, had to "understand that in mining towns, the manufacturing suburbs and regional communities of our country, our fellow Australians are hungry for recognition. "Hungry for Australia's political parties and leaders to recognise that the economy is not working in the interest of ordinary Australians", he said. While Australia is different to the US, "some of the seeds of disquiet we see overseas are present [and] growing in this country, although we are not there yet", he added. Shorten continued that it is "the mark of a good Labor government not to leave people behind" and pointed to the example provided by Victoria's Andrews Government at Hazelwood (see Related Article). "This is the Labor way – we manage change, we manage a just transition, to deliver fairness all around", he said. "Rest assured", Shorten said, that the ALP "will heed the lessons from the mines and mills and factories of Detroit, of Ohio, of Pennsylvania".
Registered Organisations Bill a blow to workers The ACTU has criticised the Registered Organisations Bill as another demonstration of the Turnbull Government’s contempt for working people and the issues that are concern to them. After over two years of failing to force it through the Senate the Turnbull government finally secured passage of the Registered Organisations Bill, the little-known piece of legislation attacking workers and their unions that was used as a trigger for this year’s double dissolution election. At a time when we face stagnating wages, increasing job insecurity, and uncertainty about where the jobs of the future will come from the Turnbull government has dedicated the time and resources of the government to attacking working people and their representatives. ACTU Secretary, Dave Oliver, described the Bill as “ nothing more than an attempt by this government to hobble the union movement with red tape and
RAIL & ROAD December 2016
discourage people from volunteering as delegates and representatives to help their colleagues.” It is disappointing that instead of supporting working people’s attempts to increase wages and improve working conditions the Turnbull government has instead decided to burden them with a disproportionate and manifestly inappropriate regulatory regime. The union movement is predominately governed by volunteers. Everyday people who give of their time to help their fellow workers run our movement and the Turnbull government has now chosen to subject them to the same penalties that apply to highly paid corporate boards. These people are the backbone of the union movement and have done nothing to deserve the demonisation that has been heaped upon them by this government.
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RTBU Holiday Park at Jervis Bay RTBU Members can also take advantage of the United Services Union’s Aquatic Resort at Port Macquarie The RTBU and USU have a reciprocal arrangement where members of each union can book holidays at the two locations, at member discounted rates. The USU owns the Aquatic holiday resort, in a glorious location on the Hastings River at Port Macquarie on the north coast of New South Wales. The resort consists of a Motel and a Caravan Park. Stay in comfort at the holiday resort and enjoy great discounts and great style while relaxing in what many say is the best climate in Australia. No matter what type of holiday you are after your needs are covered. Lots to do any time of the year! There are a lot of attractions in the area for you and your family – have a great game of Putt-Putt golf or try Jet boating, Parra Sailing, Waterslides, Wave Bowling & Lawn Bowls which are all within walking distance. And don’t forget the fishing!Please note – there are no tent sites at the Port Macquarie Caravan Park. You can contact the motel or caravan park by calling the Comfort Inn Aquatic Motel on 02 6583 7388 or the Aquatic Palms Caravan Park on 02 6584 9155 or check the website at www.aquaticinport.com.au You can also call the United Services Union’s Head Office on 02 9265 8211 for more information. Members must provide proof of identity plus their RTBU membership card at the time of arrival at Jervis Bay or Port Macquarie United Services Union or full rates will apply.
Located in the Booderee National Park, the RTBU Holiday Park at Jervis Bay, is just a 3 hour drive south from Sydney, but a world away… Each of the 14 self-contained units sleep up to a maximum of 6 people and rates are based on a family of 2 adults and 4 children. Other rates are available, however all units only have the capacity to sleep 6 people. Units have a double bed, two single beds and a set of double bunks. You will need to bring your own sheets as only mattress protectors, quilts and pillows are supplied. The units contain a digital television, an oven, microwave, fridge, crockery, cutlery, glassware, pots and pans as well as basic cooking utensils. Make sure you come prepared as the closest grocery shop is in Vincentia, a 30 minute drive away. The RTBU Holiday Park facilities available to all guests include a Boat Ramp, Undercover Bar-B-Q area with seating, Tennis Court and a Coin Operated Laundry. There are various swimming spots to enjoy and natural areas to explore, suitable for all the family. Kangaroos, possums, wallabies, kookaburras, bandicoots, echidnas and rosellas visit the grounds of the Holiday Park daily. Enjoy fishing for whiting, flathead and bream from the calm shores or take a quick walk to experience beach fishing for tailor and salmon on the pristine Bherwerre Beach. The boat ramp allows direct access via the Sussex Inlet Channel to St Georges Basin or outside into the famous fishing grounds of Jervis Bay. Bookings can be made by telephoning the RTBU Office on (02) 9264 2511.
Booderee National Park & Bherwerre Beach
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RAIL & ROAD December 2016
In the Dhurga language, Booderee means “Bay of Plenty” and the area is the home to the people of Wreck Bay. The Booderee National Park has the only Aboriginal owned Botanic Garden in Australia. The gardens are well known for providing a centre for interpreting plants used by the local aboriginal people. The Park is also home to 200 species of birds, over 30 different native mammals including 10 species of bats, 37 reptiles, 17 amphibians and at least 180 species of fish. The White-Bellied Sea Eagle is a special bird at Booderee as it is the guardian of the Koori people of Wreck Bay and features on the Booderee National Park logo. This spectacular eagle has a white head, rump and underparts, dark or slate grey back and wings. It has an awe-inspiring wingspan of up to 2.2 metres. Within the Booderee National Park you will find beautiful white sandy beaches at Green Patch, Murrays, Steamers, Caves and Bherwerre. Bherwerre is home to some of the Boderee National Parks rarer seabirds. Pods of Bottle-nose dolphins are often spotted playing in the waves at the Sussex Inlet Entrance and Humpback whales have been known to enter the protected areas close to shore.
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On the Campaign Trail RTBU Womens’ Campaign Committee
successful meeting with Sydney Trains for introduction of a ‘Modesty Kit’ On the 20th October 2016 representatives from the RTBU Womens’ Campaign Committee (WCC) met with Sydney Trains. The purpose of the meeting was present the WCC’s proposal for the introduction of a ‘Modesty Kit’. The ‘Modesty Kit’ was a concept of the WCC which if approved, is for the use of women in the event they are required to give a urine sample for the purpose of a drug test. The kit is made up of a paper
bag, sample jar, a devise similar to a “ShePee” and a set of gloves. The concept of a ‘Modesty Kit’ was initially put to the female members via a survey coordinated by the WCC and subsequently endorsed by the survey results of the survey. The WCC then approached Sydney Trains as they are responsible for the drug testing unit and policies for a meeting. At the meeting the WCC representatives tabled the proposal for Sydney Trains to approve the use
and commence issuing a “Modesty Kit” for females when being drug tested. Sydney Trains were incredibly receptive to the proposal and have readily agreed in principle. It must be noted that the agreement is subject to regulatory approval. As such, Sydney Trains have agreed to present the WCC’s proposal for a modesty kit to the rail regulatory bodies.
Unions protest threat of public transport privatisation at Sydney bus stops The RTBU and Unions NSW targeted bus stops across Sydney, during peak travel periods, in November, to draw attention to the threat of privatisation of Sydney bus services. Unions NSW and RTBU NSW leafleted commuters, and asked them to sign a petition, as part of the Passengers Before Profits campaign against public transport privatisation. RTBU NSW Tram and Bus Divisional Secretary Chris Preston said, “This isn’t the first time we’ve asked, but we’d like it to be the last, the NSW Government should come clean about any plans to privatise Sydney buses.” “Commuters should be concerned, because privatisation of buses will mean the loss of services and bus stops.” Earlier in November, the RTBU called on the NSW Government to clarify whether there are plans to privatise bus services currently run by the State Transit Authority (STA). We are yet to hear a response.
honest people’s jobs under a privatised bus.” “The STA has 12 bus depots in Sydney and about 3700 drivers, almost all of whom are members of our union, so privatisation wouldn’t happen without a fight.” ‘‘We are very worried to hear that there could be cuts to services, cuts to maintenance, and cuts to wages and conditions of drivers who live in the most expensive city in Australia.’’ ‘‘These are services that have been in public hands for about 80 years, and it should stay that way.” “On behalf of our members, the public bus drivers of Sydney and the public need some clarity and certainty around their jobs and their futures.” “How long do we have to wait for an answer from the NSW Government – we need to know whether they’re going to throw
“Under no circumstances do we want a repeat of what happened in Newcastle, we need transparency from the government, for the NSW public, and for STA workers.” “Our members, the public bus drivers of Sydney, deserve clarity and certainty around their jobs and their futures”.
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Safety Matters Chaos ensues as bus fire brings Sydney to a standstill In an all too regular occurrence another STA bus recently caught fire, this time on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The dramatic scenes brought the evening peak hour commute to a halt, causing mass delays for thousands of workers trying to leave the city. Passengers flooded onto the bridge amongst passing traffic to escape the fire, putting lives at risk. Rail, Tram and Bus Union Bus and Tram Division Secretary Chris Preston said that Transport Minister Andrew Constance has serious questions to answer about this latest incident. “The RTBU has been calling for this problem to be fixed for years, and the public deserves answers as to why the government is still sitting on their hands as buses burn,” Mr Preston said. “Andrew Constance knows about this problem, this is not a new issue, and the government needs to get serious and retro-fit all buses with fire suppressant systems to ensure that passengers and drivers are safe. “It is beyond belief that we are still seeing our public buses catching on fire on our roads putting passengers, drivers, pedestrians and other road users at enormous risk.” Forty bus fires were reported last year, an increase of 25% over 2014, with 2016 shaping up to see a similar tally. The Union says the government’s timetable to fit safety measures isn’t good enough. “This incident highlights that we need action now, not
when the government gets around to it,” Mr Preston said. “It is too dangerous to have buses on the road that don’t have these simple fire suppression mechanisms installed. Passengers and drivers can’t wait any longer.” STA buses are expected to have fire safety systems installed by the end of this year, while private providers have until the end of 2018. Mr Preston is calling for Premier Mike Baird to sack the Transport Minister, saying his inaction is putting lives at risk with another major incident possible at any time. “The Minister needs to take responsibility for this latest bungle that saw two passengers on the state bus network taken to hospital because of his inaction on installing fire suppression systems,” Mr Preston said.
To all RTBU Members and their families
Merry Christmas RAIL & ROAD December 2016
and a
Happy New Year Page 19
Public safety should be priority for new Metro West railway RTBU NSW Secretary Alex Claassens said that whilst any new major public transport project was a positive development, the union would make sure the public and their safety remained a priority for the $10 billion investment. “Whilst we welcome investment in new public transport we remain concerned about the safety issues posed by the driver-less trains that will be part of the new Metro network,” said Mr Claassens. “Public transport investment is long overdue, but we’re concerned that the government’s plan for the Metro West railway haven’t fully taken the
public’s safety into account.” “The government needs to be clear with the public about how many of these trains will run without a single staff member on board to deal with accidents or incidents, in hard to access places like below Sydney Harbour.” “If the government is prepared to make a huge $10 billion investment in public transport, then it should be sure that it does it right and that the public are at the centre of the new development.” “The union is concerned that the new Metro line will not only lack
train drivers, but frontline service staff like guards, that are vital for the safe and on-time running of the railways. “Front-line service staff, like train guards, are the eyes and ears of the railway – they are there to assist the disabled, seniors, and women with prams, making sure that the train to platform interface is accessible and runs smoothly.” “Drivers and train guards not only make sure the trains run on time but play a vital role in ensuring safety, they respond as incidents happen and are there to make reports to police should the need arise.”
Sydney Trains Safety Reps win right to professional training Ayres praised the efforts of the combined rail union members and their officials. “Having elected, independent and properly trained safety reps is paramount to workplace safety. Our members refused to allow their employer to get away with compromising their safety and we are proud that they won.” Alex Claassens, Secretary of the Rail Tram and Bus Union NSW, said this is a significant win for workers who have been fighting for a voice on safety for years.
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For three years Sydney Trains management blocked the workplace safety reps from accessing union nominated professional training necessary to carry out their role. Following a staff standoff a SafeWork NSW review ruled workers were entitled by law to access the training of their choice. “It’s been a long road but with the unions’ help we got a win across the line. We stood our ground and we’re union proud. This is a dangerous job. The win means a safer workplace for all,” a safety rep said. AMWU NSW Secretary Tim
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Whistlestop Scott Brothers Clock Up 96 Years before calling it a Day Union officers, friends, family and colleagues of Albert and Peter Scott gathered at Ourimbah RSL recently to say their goodbyes, and share some fond memories spanning the combined 96 years of service. Albert started on the railways in 1964 as a shopboy at Eveleigh Carriageworks, then in 1965 jumped the tracks to Eveleigh Running Sheds as a Trainee Engineman cleaning Steam Locos. He qualified as a Fireman, then Acting Driver Class 4,he went to Gosford in 1972 until his recent retirement as a Driver. He loved the Steam Era, one of his favourite jobs was on the 46 Class doing the Hawkesbury to Cowan ''bank engine'', He has enjoyed his 52 years service. Brother Pete joined in 1972 at Eveleigh as a Trainee Engineman, a fresh-faced 16 year old,he tried
to transfer to Gosford Loco as a cleaner...but was told ‘nope, no way the depot is closing due to the Wyong Electrification’ ,that event didn't happen until 1981,so Pete went to ''Traffic'' and spent the rest of his time on stations, Pete has worked many Suburban, Main North, Nth Shore, Central Coast, Newcastle & Hunter line stations as a Station Assistant, Duty Manager (ASM) & SM....he finished as a Salesperson at Woy Woy in July this year after a very enjoyable railway career. The RTBU presented the Scott brothers with union plaques in appreciation of their time and service in the industry and the union. We join colleagues, friends and family in wishing Albert and Pete, a long and happy retirement.
RAIL & ROAD December 2016
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Rail Tram and Bus Union 2016/2017 Festive Season Office Hours
The Rail, Tram and Bus Union, Pitt Street Office, will be attended as follows:Friday, 23rd December 2016
8.00am - 1.00pm
Saturday, 24th December 2016
CLOSED
Sunday, 25th December 2016
CLOSED
Monday, 26th December 2016
CLOSED
Tuesday, 27th December 2016
CLOSED
Wednesday, 28th December 2016
8.30am - 4.30pm
Thursday, 29th December 2016
8.30am - 4.30pm
Friday, 30th December 2016
8.30am - 1.00pm
Saturday, 31st December 2016
CLOSED
Sunday, 1st January 2017
CLOSED
Monday, 2nd January 2017
CLOSED
Normal Office Hours of 8.00 till 16.30 will resume on Tuesday, 3rd January 2017 Please note the National Office will be closed from Friday, 23rd December 2016 and will reopen on Tuesday, 3rd January 2017
The RTBU Executive, Officers and Staff wish all members and their families
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
Have You Left the Industry? Retired? If you have left the industry, permanently or for a period, have retired, or are off work due to illness, you must resign, or suspend your union membership, in writing. Our union rules provide that members leaving the union for whatever reason, must do so in writing. If you do not resign in writing, you will continue to be included on our union membership and liable for the dues owing for that time. Please note: Regardless of whether your union dues were paid by direct debit or through payroll deductions, the employer is not authorised to change your membership details after resignation or leaving the union. You must do this personally.
Please contact the membership office at the union on 02 9264 2511 for more information. Page 22 RAIL & ROAD December 2016
Join the RTBU Retired Members Association Many retired members continue to receive copies of the journal Rail & Road, and take an interest in the life of the union. Many have also said that they would like to maintain a closer connection and involvement with the work of the union. The RTBU Retired Members Association was established to provide a forum for former members to meet, work on campaigns, address issues of particular relevance for retirees and to identify ways of assisting, supporting and contributing to the work of the union. It is expected that the Retired Members Association will function independently and pursue issues that it identifies as priorities. If you are a retired member of our union, we would like you to consider joining the Retired Members Association. Membership forms are available from the RTBU Head Office, Level 4, 321 Pitt Street, Sydney or on the union website: www.rtbu-nsw.asn.au
For more information, contact Peter O’Connor at the union office on (02) 9264 2511 For more information, contact Don McKechnie on 0409 813 643 or the union office on (02) 9264 2511
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raIL & rOaD June 2010
RTBU Express Website
www.rtbuexpress.com.au RAIL & ROAD December 2016
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We’ve got your back Proudly supporting the NSW Branch of Rail, Tram and Bus Union and their members.
RTBU Members are entitled to a free, initial consultation and discounted rates when referred by their union.
GET IN TOUCH Contact the RTBU on 02 9264 2511 for a referral to Slater and Gordon Lawyers
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RTBU Change of DeTails foRm
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Change of Personal Details
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Surname
Given Name(s)
Gender Male Female
Street Address
Suburb
Post Code
Home Telephone Number
Work Telephone Number
Date Of Birth
Mobile Number
Email (work) Email (home)
Employer
Employee Number
Occupation: Eg Train Driver
RTBU Member Number
Work Location/ Depot
Date Commenced
Employment Status Fulltime
Part time
Casual
Change in Banking Details iMPortant Members need to specify the date of their next pay so that when the membership fee debit occurs on a friday there is sufficient money in the account to ensure the transaction is not dishonoured which results in you then being charged an additional fee by your bank.
Next Pay Week
Details of Bank aCCoUnt to Be DeBiteD Name of Financial Institution (Bank)
Branch where account is held
Account in the name(s) of Bank/State Branch Number: (BSB Six Digits)
Account Number (Maximum of 9 digits)
Details of CreDit CarD to Be DeBiteD Credit Card Type: Eg Visa, MasterCard, AMX
Credit Card Number
Credit card in the name of
Expiry Date
I/We authorise and request the Rail Tram and Bus Union, until further notice in writing to arrange for my/our account described in this direct debit authority, to be debited with any amounts which the debit user may properly debit or charge me/us through the direct debit system. I/We authorise and request this direct debit authority to remain in force until cancelled, deferred or otherwise altered in accordance with this service agreement. SIGNATURE
sUBMit
DATE Please email your completed form to nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au by using the submit button Post: Level 4, 321 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW 2000 or fax: 02 9261 1342
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Membership Enquiries Telephone (02) 9264 2511
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RTBU MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FORM
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Surname
Given Name(s)
Gender Male Female
Street Address
Suburb
Post Code
Home Telephone Number
Work Telephone Number
Date Of Birth
Mobile Number
Email (work) Email (home)
Employer
Employee Number
Date Commenced
Occupation: Eg Train Driver
Work Location/Depot
Employment Status Fulltime
Part time
Casual
I, ___________________________________________________ the undersigned, hereby apply to become a member of the Australian Rail, Tram & Bus Industry Union, an Organisation of employees registered under the Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act 2009 as amended, and hereby undertake to comply with the Rules & By-Laws for the time being of the Union. Signature of Applicant _______________________________________________________ Dated _____________________ I, __________________________________________________ the undersigned, hereby apply to become a member of the Australian Rail, Tram & Bus Union NSW, an Organisation registered under the Industrial Relations Act 1996 (NSW) as amended, and hereby undertake to comply with the Rules and By-Laws for the time being of the Union. Signature of Applicant _______________________________________________________ Dated _____________________ 1. I agree to pay $ __________ via
DIRECT DEBIT fortnightly; OR
CREDIT CARD fortnightly or any other amounts as may be determined from time to time in accordance with the Rules of the Union. I certify that I have received a copy of Rule 14, Notification of Resignation From Membership. 2. I/We authorise and request the Rail Tram & Bus Union, until further notice in writing to arrange for my/ our account described in this direct debit authority, to be debited with any amounts which the debit user may properly debit or charge me/us through the direct debit system. 3. I/We authorise my employer to notify the Rail, Tram & Bus Union of any change of address during my employment. 4. I/We authorise and request this direct debit authority to remain in force until cancelled, deferred or otherwise altered in accordance with this service agreement. Signature of Applicant _____________________________________________________ Dated ____________________ DETAILS OF THE ACCOUNT TO BE DEBITED
Account Name OR Name on Credit Card __________________________________________________________ Financial Institution ______________________________________________ Branch ___________ Date of next pay week __________________________ IMPORTANT Members need to specify the date of their next pay so that when the membership fee debit occurs on a Friday there is sufficient money in the account to ensure the transaction is not dishonoured which results in you then being charged an additional fee by your bank.
Bank / State Branch No. (BSB)
Card Type
MasterCard
Account No. / If Credit Union Membership No. _____________
Visa
Expiry Date
/
Credit Card Number
Please submit this Form to the RTBU’s Membership Officer by email nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au OR Mail to Level 4, 321 Pitt Street Sydney NSW 2000 OR Fax (02) 9261 1342
IMPORTANT PLEASE KEEP THE FOLLOWING FOR YOUR REFERENCE
4. A notice delivered to the Branch Secretary shall be deemed to have been received by when it was delivered.
RESIGNATION FROM MEMBERSHIP
5. A notice of resignation that has been received by the Union is not invalid because it was not addressed and delivered the Branch Secretary.
2. A notice of resignation from membership of the Union takes effect:– (a) where the member ceases to be eligible to become or remain a member of the Union (i) on the day on which the notice is received by the Union or (ii) on the day specified in the notice, which is a day not earlier than the day when the member ceases to be eligible to become a member, whichever is later; or (b) In any other case:– (i) at the end of two weeks; or (ii) on the day specified in the notice: whichever is later. 3. Any subscriptions, fees, fines and levies owing but not paid by a former member of the Union in relation to a period before the member’s resignation took effect, may be sued for and recovered in the name of the Union in a Court of competent jurisdiction, as a debt due to the Union.
What happens if I get pregnant, sick for an extended period or take leave without pay? If you are on unpaid maternity leave, sick or are off work for a substantial period of time you can seek to have your membership fees suspended until you return to work by giving written notice addressed and delivered to the Secretary of his/her Branch under Clause 11 (8): (8) Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Rule, should any member during any financial year be without pay owing to ill health or to other causes which a Branch Executive regards as warranting special consideration, then the Branch Executive may grant the member exemption from payment of all or any contributions imposed in accordance with the Rules for all or part of the period during which he/ she is without pay. During the period of the exemption, the member shall be deemed to be financial.
The Rail, Tram & Bus Union is bound by the Privacy Act and your information can only used for RTBU processes and cannot be used for any other purposes.
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1. A member may resign from membership of the Union by written notice addressed and delivered to the Secretary of his/her Branch.
6. Resignation from membership of the Union is valid even if it is not affected in accordance with this Rule, if the member is informed in writing by or on behalf of the Union that the resignation has been accepted.
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OF THE RTBU
Tel (02) 9264 2511 Fax (02) 9264 1342 E-mail nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au Website www.rtbu-nsw.asn.au
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