Opal Card WIN At the beginning of last month, we received fantastic news - the NSW Government announced they will be providing Bus Drivers with free public transport, aiming to boost workforce participation. This decision aligns with one of the key recommendations made by the Bus Industry Taskforce. For over four and a half years, our members have tirelessly advocated behind the scenes for this benefit. Our persistence made this issue a central focus during elections, and it paid off. Transport Minister Jo Haylen not only kept the Labor election promise but went above and beyond
by providing free passes for all Bus Drivers across the state. This milestone aligns with a crucial recommendation from the Bus Industry Taskforce, where RTBU Tram & Bus divisional Secretary plays a part. It’s a step forward in incentivising workforce participation and retaining skilled professionals in our industry. The announcement underscores the importance of consulting those directly impacted by policies. Through active participation in the Bus Industry Taskforce, we’ve proven that our voices matter, leading to tangible outcomes.
This initiative is the catalyst we need for broader reforms to reshape the landscape of our industry. The Union is ready to fight for more steps toward revitalising our industry. Next on the agenda: passes for our members in the Light Rail!
Northern Beaches We’re still dealing with the fallout from the Keolis Downer audit results and debt collection. Since evidence provided by members has shown consistent and significant errors in the audit results, the RTBU has been pushing for more accountability from the company and better availability for supporting documents to be provided to members so they can verify debt claims themselves.
The reason the RTBU wants journals available is because we have seen instances where information has not been correctly input from the journal into HASTUS. HASTUS is then relied on when calculating what someone has earned, but it’s no good if it’s not right.
While the company has afforded a 30 minute paid session (base rate) to employees who ask for it, they are not happy to provide journals for the entire period many debts cover.
Divisional President Peter Grech is visiting depots looking to discuss issues members are having so we can provide specific information to the Fair Work Commission.
RAIL & ROAD September 2023
Journals are the ultimate source of truth for the work you have done and should be paid for.
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