2024 Rail and Road - March Edition

RAILROAD AND

THE MAGAZINE OF THE NSW BRANCH OF THE RAIL, TRAM & BUS UNION

RTBU Holiday Park

Vacancies - Book your holiday now

The RTBU Holiday Park is a great place to escape to for a peaceful break in the National Park and a walk along the beach.

Avoid the rush and the high season rates - book your holiday now. The Holiday Park is situated in a National Park and Members can enjoy a holiday by the sea and relax with fishing, tennis, boating, swimming or bushwalking.

RTBU members can also now get discounted rates at the United Services Riverside Resort at Port Macquarie.

For booking enquiries please telephone Head Office on (02) 9264 2511

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RAIL & ROAD is the official journal of the NSW Branch of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union and is produced as part of the union’s communication strategy to inform and report on matters of interest to members.

All editorial and advertising inquiries should be addressed to the union office on Tel: 02 92642511; email: nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au

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NSW BRANCH

Head Office

Level 4, 321 Pitt Street,

Sydney NSW 2000

Tel (02) 92642511

Email nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au

Website

Tram

83-89

Tel

Email

Locomotive

Level

Fax

Email

Newcastle

33

Email

Wollongong Office

Level 1, 306a Crown Street, Wollongong, 2500

Tel (02) 9264 2511

Email wollongong@rtbu-nsw.asn.au

Branch Executive

Secretary Alex Claassens

President Craig Turner

Assistant Secretary (Road) Peter Grech

Assistant Secretary (Rail) Robert Hayden

Elected Full-Time Officials

Branch Secretary

Alex Claassens

Locomotive Divisional Secretary

Farren Campbell

Tram and Bus Divisional Secretary

David Babineau

Tram and Bus Divisional President

Peter Grech Organisers

Director of Organising Toby Warnes

Branch Organisers

Craig Turner

Ricky Keehn

Matt Bindley

Wayne Moody

Amanda Perkins

Bronwyn Kelly

Steve Wright

Kevin Pryor

Marc Chapman

Greg Cameron

Brian Head

From the Branch Secretary

As we move towards the second half of the year, we’ve already been able to achieve a lot as we get on with our important work. From significant legislative victories to conferences and ongoing advocacy efforts, it’s clear that our union’s strength lies in the unwavering dedication of each and every one of you.

The year began with a significant victory for workers nationwide, as the new closing the loophole bill was passed with the purpose of improving the lives of millions, including our very own members. We commend the Federal Government for their steadfast commitment to delivering secure jobs and improving the conditions of some of the most vulnerable workers in our community.

In December, we convened for the 15th RTBU National Council conference, a gathering that not only marked the commemoration of our union’s 30th anniversary but also served as a platform for over 70 elected delegates from diverse sectors of our membership to come together, share insights, and strategise on how best to advance the interests of our members.

The conference was a testament to the strength and solidarity of our union, which has grown to nearly 35,000 members over the past three decades. To delve deeper into the highlights from the National Council conference, please see the article below.

February witnessed our active participation in Country Labor’s conference, where our motions advocating for the expansion of the electrified rail network and the preservation of sleeper carriages received resounding support and were swiftly adopted. Additionally, we seized the opportunity to launch an online petition urging the State Government to include locally manufactured sleeper carriages in the new Regional Rail Fleet, reflecting our ongoing commitment to advocating for the needs and priorities of our members. We’ve included more details on this and how you can get involved.

Amidst these milestones, there were also positive developments for UGL Regional Linx members, as a new enterprise agreement, inclusive of provisions for network controllers, was approved in January. This achievement

In this Issue

underscores our unwavering dedication to securing fair and equitable working conditions for all RTBU members, across all sectors.

In other news, Sydney Trains is considering closing our local regional rail signal boxes and relocating the signalling work to Homebush Control Centre, to be ironically named the “Regional Control Centre”. In response, we are advocating for alternative solutions that prioritise the safety, well-being, and livelihoods of our members and their communities. We firmly believe that investing in regional signalling infrastructure represents the most viable path forward, but you can find the latest on this down below.

Once again, I’d like to thank you all for your dedication and hard work. Your ongoing support is the foundation of our union’s strength and success. As we continue forward, remember that your delegates are here to support you.

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns or issues. Together, we will continue to strive for a better, fairer future for all.

RTBU National Council 2023 Wrap

Over 70 elected National Council Delegates and observers from all parts of our union, and all parts of the country, gathered in Brisbane towards the end of last year for the 15th bi-annual RTBU National Council.

The National Council took two-and-a-half days, with Day 1 devoted to separate meetings of our six national occupation-based divisions, while Days 2 and 3 involved a mass meeting of all National Council delegates.

This year’s National Council also celebrated the 30th anniversary of the amalgamation of four separate unions into the modern RTBU.

Over the past three decades our union has developed into a powerful, professional, member-led organisation – almost 35,000 members strong.

We’re a union that’s not just a campaigning outfit that doesn’t just give our members a voice, it gives them a megaphone and a real say in how we operate as a delegate led union.

And we’re expanding our reach and our influence across our industries - improving workplace safety, lifting the standard of training, and ensuring terms and conditions that allow workers in our industries to live a dignified life.

But none of this has happened by accident. Our

strength is the result of decades of hard work, built on the wisdom and courage of the workers who saw the benefits of creating a national all-grades union for the rail tram and bus industries back in 1993.

We’ve survived countless challenges, we’ve won countless victories, and we’re just warming up. Here are some of the highlights of National Council 2023:

RESOLUTIONS:

• Turning the RTBU-owned Registered Training Organisation, Training Ahead Australia (RTO code: 45462), into a Not-For-Profit organisation;

• Establishing a national RTBU Enabled Committee to better represent the needs of members with disabilities;

• Recognising nationally accredited qualifications for bus and tram operations; Developing a strategy to support frontline RTBU members from aggressive, threatening and abusive behaviour;

• Developing a strategy to combat the introduction of autonomous vehicles;

• Developing model EA clauses in relation to reproductive leave and bereavement leave;

• Adopting the Queensland Branch’s BUSTED campaign as a national campaign; and

• Conferring Life Membership on Mick Kavanagh from SA/NT Branch.

EXTERNAL SPEAKERS

Guest speakers from across Australia and around the world attended National Council, and participated in discussions that were both informative and inspiring.

The guest speaker list included:

• Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Hon Catherine King MP;

• RMTU (New Zealand) General Secretary Todd Valster;

• ASLEF (UK) General Secretary Mick Whelan;

• FMRWTU (Mongolia) Vice President Enkthugs BatErdene;

• JRU (Japan) Vice President Akinori Yanagai, with interpreter Tomoko Emilie Mukawa;

• TWU Assistant National Secretary Nick McIntosh;

• MUA Assistant National Secretary Mich-Elle Myers;

• Mining & Energy Union National Secretary Grahame Kelly;

• Co-Convenor of NSW Labor Enabled Andrew Shim;

• Training Ahead Australia CEO Danielle Walz; and

• ACTU Secretary Sally McManus

National Secretary Mark Diamond also gave a speech to the National Council dinner, where he told guests that RTBU members can move mountains when they work together. You can read the speech on our national website by clicking here.

You can get a feel for how National Council operates by flicking through the photos and watching the highlights video on our Facebook Page by clicking here.

A video celebrating the 30th anniversary of the amalgamation which formed the modern RTBU was shown at the beginning of the National Council dinner. Click this link to see the video on You Tube.

Finally, we also released a booklet about the amalgamation and the development of our national, all-grades union. The booklet is now available on-lineyou can access it by clicking here.

Southern Shorthaul Railroad (SSR) Enterprise Agreement Update

Your RTBU Bargaining team has engaged with Southern Shorthaul Railroad (SSR) again to present our responses to the latest Enterprise Agreement offer. The key issues discussed during this session include:

Wage Increase

SSR’s current offer stands at 18% over 4 years (5%, 5%, 4%, 4%), plus back pay.

The RTBU position: Progress is being made, but our claim remains at 20% over 4 years for a 4-year agreement, with a preference for a 3-year agreement at 15% Temporary Work Locations/ Temporary Transfers

SSR have offered a Living Away from Home Allowance of $30 per rest period, for anyone who is away from their Home Depot for more than 3 nights. They also propose utilising the barracks minimum rest of 8 hours between shifts.

The RTBU believes this may contravene Rail Safety National Law. It is our position that once an employee arrives at a Temporary Work Location, it becomes their Temporary Home Depot and is then subject to a minimum rest period of 11 hours between shifts (or 12 hours as per your EA).

We also oppose compelling Employees to spend multiple nights away from home if they are unable to fill those shifts with volunteers. The current EA’s barracks working clause (Clause 38.5.1, 38.5.2, 38.5.3) should remain, with the RTBU maintaining

that barracks working is one rest period away from the Home Depot, and anything beyond constitutes a temporary transfer.

Overtime - SSR have not moved on their position that the overtime multiplier will remain as per the current agreement (1.5 or 1.7, depending on your classification). Our claim remains that the overtime multiplier should be 1.7 of the non-car rate for all employees across the board.

Dispute Resolution - SSR remains opposed to the RTBU’s claim for mandatory arbitration in the dispute resolution clause. Currently, if a dispute reaches the final step at the Fair Work Commission, both parties must agree to vest the power to arbitrate a resolution in the Commission. Without SSR’s agreement, the Commission can only make a recommendation, not an order to resolve the dispute. The RTBU sees this as a critical claim to ensure that all disputes can be conclusively resolved.

Duty Cycle - SSR have offered to pay out the overtime component of all hours worked over 168 hours in any month, while retaining the 6-month cycle. While this is an improvement, members have expressed some concerns that SSR

will manage any excess hours away, prior to having to make any payouts.

Casual/Part Time - SSR continues to refuse to cap the numbers and rostering of casual employees. The RTBU claim was to restrict the use of casuals if there is a qualified Driver available on a TBA shift. This claim is linked to the concerns about Drivers having any excess hours managed away from them.

Consultative Committee - As one of the parties bound by the Agreement, The RTBU seeks to have a Union Official from both NSW and Victoria. SSR continues to refuse this claim, even though there is no financial impact to them.

Next Steps - Since the meeting, SSR conducted a survey and scheduled subsequent meetings to discuss the survey results. Based on the communications from SSR, it seems that many employees have expressed concerns similar to those raised by the RTBU, contradicting SSR’s earlier claim that a majority of their crew was “happy with the proposed offer” in the bargaining meetings.

If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact your Bargaining Delegates and Officials

QUBE Enterprise Agreement bargaining update

Delegates met with QUBE Management as part of the Good Faith Bargaining Conference outcome that was before Deputy President Cross last month.

As part of that Conference, QUBE supplied an estimate to the 7 items that QUBE wanted to negotiate away from you so that they could offer a better wage increase. QUBE has also brought up 2 other items, since the Fair Work Conference, which they also want to change.

Given QUBE’s latest proposal to revisit these nine items, the RTBU withdrew its agreement to include a “Pencil Roster” and amendment to the “emergency days” clause. If QUBE withdraws its position to revisit closed matters, the RTBU will again agree to these claims.

All nine items have been well agreed between the parties a long time ago, but what do these items mean?

Item 1 - Removal of an inherited condition from the IRA EA would reduce their superannuation from 14% to the current rate of 11%. A reduction of 3%

Item 2 - Reduce Sick leave by 5 days, our estimate is just short of $400K and that’s for your current rate of pay. When your pay increases, so does this amount.

Items 3, 4, 6 and 7 are all rostering issues and as we all know, QUBE can’t roster. If they could roster correctly, these items would reduce themselves.

Item 5 – Wasted Meals - Our estimate is just over $1 million dollars per year and this allowance is there for when you can’t take a meal break.

Even QUBE’s estimate of $400k proves that many members aren’t getting a proper meal break.

Item 8 - QUBE could introduce Video and Audio Monitoring in the Locomotive Cab, making sure they could discipline you for any discrepancies.

Item 9 – removal of “Arbritiation” means there is no avenue in the Fair Work Commission for an employee to get a resolution to any dispute. During the meeting, we asked QUBE what their proposed wage offer looked like, which includes backpay. QUBE vehemently advised that back pay was off the table and wouldn’t give an answer to our direct question. QUBE then asked, what items can your Delegate Team give up so that they could work on an offer. This is quite frustrating as QUBE have given an estimate of what the above items are worth but will not give an answer to a pay deal. QUBE then asked what our position was, and we advised them that the in-principle agreement reached on 26 June 2023 in the Fair Work is our offer. Remember that QUBE agreed to this offer.

Aurizon Coal members must not be intimidated over leave entitlements

The RTBU Locomotive division recently became aware of Aurizon implementing intimidatory tactics across its NSW Coal workforce in regards to Employees personal carers leave (Sick Leave) entitlements. Members contacted us after they had been called in to explain their absences and provided with a warning letter (referred to by the company as Appendix C) about any future leave and also having a number of reporting conditions placed on them.

The RTBU wrote to Aurizon management and asked them to clarify their position on this matter. The General manager has since written back and explained the circumstances around the use of “Appendix C” letters and their generic relevant standard, however has not addressed the real issue, and that being that employees have a clear entitlement under the agreement, a clear reporting process and a clear way of dealing with any misuse of sick leave and that the use of such a form and process is in conflict to the Enterprise Agreement provisions.

While we do not dispute Aurizon has a right to pursue employees regarding cases of non genuine leave, however in order to do this, Aurizon must (under clause 43.9.2) provide the employee with a letter outlining the allegations and must give the employee 24 hours’ notice before any meeting as per clause 12, Discipline. They do not have a right to issue letters containing demands nor impose conditions on employees that are clearly outside the confines of the enterprise agreement. Doing so can be

considered as adverse action under the Fair Work Act and is a serious offence.

As we understand many employees have been issued letters and had reporting demands placed on them. Any member who has been issued one of these letters or directives should directly email this office at newcastle@ rtbu-nsw.asn.au. Members should explain their situation and include a copy of their letter/s.

All members should make themselves familiar with clause 43 in regards to the agreement. If you have followed the process set out in the agreement, then you have met the reporting requirements of the agreement. You are not required to ring managers and then supervisors and have multiple meetings with them etc.

Your delegates and Officials will be lodging a formal dispute with Aurizon on this matter and asking that all letters be immediately withdrawn.

Tram and Bus News

Transdev Light Rail Enterprise Agreement

After quite a delay, Transdev has provided us with a draft enterprise agreement document. On Wednesday 31st January 2024, RTBU officials met with the company for discussions.

The main topic of these discussions was around the place of work to ensure that places of employment are static and that employees can start their work, have their meals, and finish their work in the same location. This has previously been an issue in past negotiations, however, throughout this current set of negotiations, the union has been able to secure this as an enterprise agreement provision.

We have also requested clarification on the definitions of regular work and special events, which have been provided but still require some refinement. The RTBU will be submitting proposed clauses to the company for consideration.

As previously communicated, the classification of CIOs has been incorporated, with all allowances being subject to indexation.

Additionally, we have advocated for increased sick leave entitlements for staff, as well as an extension of the permissible duration for absence without the need for supporting documentation. Discussions on these matters are ongoing.

The next phase of negotiations entails Transdev responding to the concerns raised by the Union and providing a copy to the bargaining representatives for review, allowing them to propose alterations tailored to their respective work groups.

Keolis Downer Northern Beaches continues to engage with members in accordance with the recommendation put forth by the Fair Work Commission.

Numerous members have sought further clarification and elaboration regarding the ongoing audit/review, exercising their rightful entitlement to information. Reports from both our members and local delegates indicate persistent challenges and ongoing dissatisfaction with the process, which is concerning. While we acknowledge the company’s prerogative to seek repayment of any overpayments, our observations continue to highlight a pattern of errors and discrepancies on the part of the employer. Consistently, we have emphasised that if there is any uncertainty regarding the alleged overpayment as communicated by KDNB, individuals should refrain from repayment. Moreover, if there is a lack of support from management concerning out-of-pocket expenses,

Keolis Downer Hunter Agreement Newcastle Trams

the necessity for repayment is called into question. Furthermore, individuals who have previously repaid amounts must ensure that these transactions are documented.

In essence, our stance remains clear:

• If uncertainty persists, refrain from repayment.

• In the absence of management support regarding outof-pocket expenses, refrain from repayment.

• Ensure that any previously repaid amounts are accurately reflected in documentation before considering further repayment.

The RTBU is currently in consultation with our legal team in preparation for our forthcoming report to the Fair Work Commission.

The company has advised that all backpay associated with the new Enterprise Agreement has now been paid out. Any members who have not seen the rate adjustment flow through should contact the divisional office on 02 9319 7277.

Region 7 Bargaining Update

Negotiations in Region 7 have been ongoing and have been through a long and complex road.

Transport for NSW has become more deeply involved in negotiations, including engaging the former Fair Work Commission (FWC) Deputy President Sams as a mediator in discussions between the RTBU and Busways. Following the directive from the Labor Government to eliminate two-tiered workplaces, the focal point shifted to the issue of who bears the cost of levelling up newer employees.

Regrettably, it seems TfNSW has now withdrawn from actively seeking a solution, asserting contractual constraints that prevent them from making any payments to employees or the company. They have so far refused to detail what those constraints are. As of now, the Union has not been presented with substantiated evidence or legal advice supporting this position. Basically, they’ve said ‘we can’t do anything’ but refused to tell us why.

As a final attempt at a political fix, RTBU officials, the Premier and Transport Minister will meet. The main issue with the current negotiation is that everyone cannot take industrial action together, and so any action we may take will be undermined by the new drivers who have no choice but to work as normal.

If we bargain for a new EA for just the ex-STA

employees, the new drivers get left behind and we still end up locked into two separate Agreements. The tworoster system is ultimately up to the company to decide if they’re going to bring it in and we can’t fight that until we’re all bargaining together.

We understand that the highly political nature of this negotiation is not something people are happy with. We also understand that members are getting sick of not seeing movement. Please understand, this is exactly what happened in Region 6 and it took years for the Unions to get a result there. We are ultimately trying to fix something that we are not directly involved in and so don’t have the power to easily change. We’re not the employer or TfNSW and we’re not a party to the service contract.

Ultimately, our job is to make sure that several things happen. First and most importantly, that all workers are protected. Secondly, that no-one goes backwards, and thirdly that we close the gap between the workgroups as much as we possibly can. We know it’s frustrating, but this means that this process will run as long as it needs to so we can deliver on those responsibilities and if Labor won’t deliver a solution as promised then we’ll be calling them out as well.

Opal Card rollout for NSW Transport staff

After five years of lobbying behind the scenes at every opportunity by the RTBU, it has taken several months for TfNSW to give effect to the Transport Minister’s commitment, but Opal cards are finally happening for workers in the Bus sector first, followed by the Trams. We’ve kept Trams on the boil during discussions about Opal cards and this was committed to in recent budget estimates where the Transport Secretary stated-

“The CHAIR: Light rail drivers in particular, I understand, are quite concerned about that. While it’s great for bus drivers, a number of them have contacted our office with concerns. Is that being considered as well?

JOSH MURRAY: Yes, it is. Obviously, our light rail drivers will have counterparts of the same employer, the same umbrella company, who will then receive it because their parent company is a private bus operator as well as a light rail operator. We are obviously conscious of that equity across the transport workforce.”

This is interesting because it ties the light rail passes to companies who also operate bus contracts and only mentions LRV drivers. Regardless of that, once we get them for tram workers, and not just for drivers, we’ll be working to make sure there is no chance of them being lost because the parent company no longer operates a bus contract.

As soon as that process commences, we’ll let our Light rail members in NSW know. For those at CMET in Canberra, once resolved, the FBT advice should help us push for passes from Transport Canberra who always cited the tax as the main issue.

In the meantime, the below applies only to bus drivers. Employers first have to opt in and they have. Employees will then have to opt in as well. This is mainly for Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) purposes. It should be noted that there is a $2000 threshold for FBT before it becomes an issue so if you already have FBT items as liabilities, please get financial advice before opting in. This is from section 12 of the employee pack“If the total taxable value of the fringe benefits provided to you and/or your family in a FBT year exceeds $2,000, you’ll have a reportable fringe benefits (RFBA) amount in your end of financial year income statement (formerly called a payment summary). While an RFBA isn’t deemed taxable income, depending on your personal circumstances, it will be used to determine whether you’re entitled to, or liable for, a number of benefits and obligations. These may include Family Tax Benefits, Medicare levy surcharge, private health insurance rebate, child support payments, superannuation co-contributions, Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), tax offsets and Financial Supplement repayments.“

Discussions around who gets a pass settled on the RTBU position of the definition of ‘dedicated staff’ they

used during privatisation. That means workshop, salaried and bus operators who work out of the depot are all eligible.

The initial roll out will be for any dedicated staff who currently does NOT have a working pass. Ex-STA staff who have working passes will get their pass status changed to allow for travel across all modes, we’ll let you know when TfNSW are ready to do that. It won’t be long, but the Union position was that we wanted to get the cards out to people that have nothing first.

The initial rollout is NOT THE ONLY WINDOW TO GET A PASS. After this is done, you can still opt in but it’ll take a couple months while the current process runs its course. That means don’t stress if you’re on leave of some type, you won’t get left behind.

All Full time and Part-time staff are eligible. Casual staff working 15 hours or more are also eligible. We obviously advocated for the hours worked threshold for casuals to be lower but TfNSW lowered their initial number to 15 and would not budge. Sub-contractors are NOT eligible.

We know that this entitlement doesn’t magically fix things. We know that privatisation has and continues to cost our members, literally, and drove many from the industry altogether. We also know that the recent cost of living crisis is making life difficult in the extreme for some of our members who face difficult choices at home to meet their family and financial obligations. We understand that a pass isn’t going to fix this. What we can promise is just like the return of this rightful entitlement which took half a decade to achieve, we’re not going to stop fighting for dignity, respect and equality in every workplace we have members. No matter how long it takes, we’re going to make sure that we get back what was taken from us and more.

Let’s celebrate this hard-earned victory—it’s been a long time coming.

General News

Country Labor backs RTBU call at Country Conference

Country Labor held its country conference in Nowra in February to determine its policy platforms and directions.

The RTBU participated and moved motions – which were swiftly adopted by the conference – one focused on extending the electrified rail network to Bomaderry and another on saving our XPT sleeper carriages on train services between Sydney and Melbourne, Brisbane and Casino.

Sleeper compartments are currently on rail services from Sydney to Brisbane, Sydney to Melbourne, Melbourne to Sydney and from Casino to Sydney.

In 2019 the Coalition State Government signed a contract for the manufacture of the new Regional

Rail Fleet to replace the ageing XPT, Endeavor and Xplorer train sets, however the contract didn’t include replacement sleeper carriages.

RTBU NSW Branch Secretary Alex Claassens says the decision to not replace the sleeper carriages was regrettable and short-sighted.

“Around the world we’re seeing more interest in rail tourism, and people looking for niche experiences like sleeper trains.

“No date has been set for the delivery of the new train sets, so there is still time to fix this mistake, and to make

sure the new trains can provide the same level of service as the old trains.

“That’s why we’re calling for the Minns State Government to build new sleeper carriages that will complete the new regional trains.”

We also launched an online petition calling on the State Government to add sleeper carriages to its new Regional Rail Fleet at the Country Labor conference in Nowra. To sign the petition, go to: www.megaphone. org.au/petitions/save-our-sleepertrains

Closing the loopholes: massive win for workers

New laws recently passed through Parliament that will improve the lives of millions of workers – including RTBU members who are casuals, those who are fighting EA battles against recalcitrant employers, or those who are constantly contacted out of hours by management.

The Federal Government passed the Closing the Loophole laws in February following a massive union campaign.

The changes will mean:

• Casual workers have better rights and more choices.

• Gig economy workers will finally have rights at work.

• All workers will have the right to disconnect.

• In Fair Work Commission arbitrations for enterprise agreements, workers cannot go backwards.

Big business, with the support of Peter Dutton, were always going to spend big to keep these loopholes open, but they were no match for the campaigning by union members all over Australia.

This is a huge victory for working people. We’re thankful to the Government for keeping their promise to deliver secure jobs, and the Greens, David Pocock and Lidia Thorpe for supporting these important reforms.

The new laws include measures such as:

• A genuine pathway for casual workers to transition to permanent

• Improved safety standards and work rights for gig workers

• Enhanced rights for transport workers

• The right to refuse unreasonable, unpaid work –including monitoring and responding to emails after hours.

These historic changes – which only came about because of the hard work of union members - will have a significant impact on the lives of millions of Australians. By providing better pay, conditions, and job security, we are helping to ensure that all workers can live with dignity and support their families.

Union Summer Intern Program

Josh Frank - Union Summer was an amazing opportunity that was presented to me towards the end of 2023. I have always been a strong unionist since my first job at a chicken shop in Year 10 and have believed in the core principles of the union for almost all of my teenage life. I had been interested in getting experience in the union movement for some time and had even considered joining Young Labor on multiple occasions. I wanted to find a secure stable job that would align with my ideological beliefs and when the opportunity to do so arose, I took it. One of the main workplace situations that strengthened my involvement in the union movement was when I saw how poorly workers were treated in the events and crewing industry. One of my elderly managers at a previous job, had a near death experience at work and was lucky to survive only with a broken foot. He continued to work for that week operating a forklift, the week after and even returned to work early to oversee projects he was managing. This made me seriously think about my employment and shortly after I left the company. This experience provided me with a clear understanding of what happens in workplaces that are un-unionised and how the lack of unionisation affects the workers and their safety.

Union Summer has been an amazing experience and insight into the dedicated work that the RTBU does to protect its members and fight for workers’ rights in the public transport sector. The value of their work cannot be understated. During my time at the RTBU I have learned about the amazing work,

which is done in the organising, campaigning and industrial sector to help secure workers’ rights and fight their injustices. Their important work has helped maintain the dignity of the public transport system.

That said, the RTBU and the broader union movement faces a serious challenge in its recruitment of young members, the importance of unionisation is not being taught properly in both schools and households and a mass education

Summer Interns, Taya May & Josh Frank

campaign is needed to empower young people to align themselves with the union movement. This education, however, will not come from the institutions which seem to benefit from the lack of unionisation. The education must come from the unions themselves with targeted social media campaigns which address young people and their concerns specifically. The unions must build and distribute their own narratives among the next generation of workers (Gen Z & Gen Alpha), which display their solidarity with other marginalised groups, their very real and significant wins in Australian legislation and their ability to safeguard workplace rights for individual workers. The best way to do this would be through social media channels like TikTok and Instagram, running targeted advertising campaigns on these platforms which appeal to the younger generations. As well as this, regular content creation could be an effective strategy for many unions as it is effective at reaching people in many other areas of education material.

Taya May - I have been working with the RTBU for 3 weeks doing an internship called “Union Summer”. This is an opportunity for young workers to get out there in the field of unions and gain some knowledge and experience in the movement.

I grew up in Tamworth (so have caught the Countrylink on many occasions). While working in Tamworth I worked for a business in town and it was the first time I had contacted Fair Work. I had been working there for about 3 weeks when I noticed my male colleague who was the same age as me in the same role as me, was getting paid $10 more an hour. On top of this I was subject to sexist and

harassing comments from both my colleagues and the male customers. Comments that insinuate that I was only employed there to get more men into the shop. This disturbed me but of course I did not know anything about unions and went to the Fair Work Commission myself, afterwards I was called into the office and let go by the manager. If I had been with a union I could have been represented and more could have been done to protect me, but unfortunately I was forced to take the loss and find other employment. Since doing the placement with Unions NSW and now completing my Union Summer internship I have realised the importance of the union movement. I have had the opportunity to speak with you, the members over the phone and some in person as well and have discovered that the members really are the heart and soul of the union movement. I was asked what some of my highlights of my internship was, and I loved the opportunity I was afforded, to help the industrial team support the members needing support for injustices in the workplace. Being able to interact with you and help in the limited capacity I could as an intern reignited a fire in me to continue fighting alongside the union movement for workers rights. I had previously been an advocate for children’s rights in foster care but for a few reasons fell out of love with advocacy. Now, however, I am more passionate than ever.

As part of this article I have been asked to identify potential limitations to the union movement in regards to young workers engagement. I was a little caught off guard by this but after some thought I came up with the following:

1. Engagement, many young workers won’t engage in a movement without the proper information, I know I didn’t

bother looking up union information because of what my parents had told me. But once I was exposed to the movement I am able to understand better and make more informed decisions. Delegates, why not approach any young people you meet on the job and discuss the importance of the union movement or get them in touch with your organiser?

2. Media coverage, yes, yes, I know us young people are glued to our phones, but if you think about it we have a wealth of information at our fingertips, if you have a good news story happen at work, or the union has a big win if it’s posted on union socials then it’s more likely to attract the attention of the younger working demographic and convince us out of a negative mindset about unions.

3. Young workers hub, this is an idea brought from Unions NSW but having a group for young workers from the industry to come together and discuss the issues relevant to them with like minded young people may make them more comfortable to reach out for help if they need it.

I know there are plenty of issues that come up in your lines of work, like safety, pay, rostering and shorts. These are all issue that are important and would affect a young worker just as much as anyone, but without the proper education we might not have the confidence to advocate for ourselves and may just take the consequences and accept the reality there’s nothing we can do, but with a little solidarity from our older colleagues, I believe young people have the power to raise up for their beliefs and battle injustices alongside you all.

In solidarity, thank you.

International News

UK Train Drivers Strike for Fair Pay

British train drivers are continuing their fight for better pay after they took a series of strike actions across December.

The UK train driver’s union, ASLEF, carried out a rolling program of oneday strikes and a nine-day overtime ban across the country’s 16 Train Operating Companies (TOCs).

ASLEF General Secretary Mick Whelan (who was a guest speaker at the RTBU National Council in November), said the industrial action was designed to ratchet up the pressure on the 16 TOCs and the UK Government.

“We are going on strike again not to inconvenience passengers, but to express our disgust at the intransigence of this government, and the bad faith shown by the private companies which employ us,” Mick said.

“It is clear that the Tory Government does not want to resolve this dispute.

“We haven’t had a meeting with Mark Harper, the Transport Secretary, since December 2022. We haven’t

had a meeting with Huw Merriman, the Rail Minister, since January this year.

“And we haven’t heard from the employers, the private sector train operating companies for whom we work, since April.

“We are prepared to come to the table and negotiate but the TOCs … simply can’t be bothered. They are happy to see this dispute rumble on, for passengers and businesses to suffer, and to drive Britain’s railways –once the envy of the world – into a managed decline.”

The strikes caused significant disruptions to services across Great Britain and came after train drivers voted to strongly endorse ASLEF’s mandate to take industrial action.

“We are determined to win this dispute and get a significant pay rise for train drivers who have not had an increase since 2019 while the cost of living, in that time, has soared,” Mick said.

ASLEF General Secretary Mick Whelan

International News

Greece Train Derailment - First Anniversary

As February 28 dawned, Greece solemnly marked the one-year anniversary of the tragic train crash that claimed the lives of 57 individuals—an event etched into the nation’s history as one of its deadliest rail accidents and a sobering reminder of broader rail safety challenges across Europe.

This collision was the deadliest train crash in Greece, and it remains one of the worst rail accidents in living memory of Europe.

A nationwide strike was held in Greece on this day to mark the anniversary, and more than 30,000 people demonstrated in the capital to push for calls on the Government to deliver on safety reforms on the nation’s railway systems.

Alongside this, Greek civil servants staged a 24-hour walkout with other unions, including air traffic controllers, taxi drivers and public transport workers, who are also protesting at the high cost of living.

unions representing air traffic controllers, taxi drivers, and public transport workers, participated in a 24-hour walkout. Their collective stance underscored the widespread concern over not only rail safety but also the broader socio-economic issues, including the high cost of living.

In this moment of solidarity and advocacy, the Rail, Tram, and Bus Union (RTBU) extends its support to our Greek colleagues, standing in alignment with their call for substantive enhancements to rail safety measures.

As Greece navigates the aftermath of this tragedy, the international community observes with a shared

New Rail Fire and Emergency Truck joins Sydney Trains

Thanks to the hard work of the union members of Fire Officers (aka RERU) from Sydney Trains for their years of lobbying various departments, the new Volvo fire truck was delivered in late December 2024 joining the fleet of Sydney Trains Fire Trucks. The new Rail Fire and Emergency truck was custombuilt with many state-of-the-art features such as a large rooftop monitor, new electronic devices to ensure safety and a unique electronic trolley, to list a few of the improved features.

Sydney Trains Fire Officers are one of the most unique fire departments in the country, and this new truck, with the improved features, will provide further protection for these hardworking union members, fellow railway workers and the public on our railway system.

UGL Regional

linx

enterprise agreement gets members stamp of approval

Following the transfer of services from John Holland CRN in 2021 to UGL regional linx, the final piece of the transfer has been completed with the approval by the IRC in January 2024 for a new enterprise agreement covering UGL members.

The agreement has incorporated a new section covering UGL network controllers for the first time to join infrastructure workers.

The Agreement will provided 4 percent per year for 3 years with $1,000 sign on

Other improvements included:

• Increases in On Call

• Increase in the Working Away from home

• Payment of medical expenses

The vote was endorsed by 88 percent of employees.

This new and improved EBA could not have happened without the efforts of the local delegates who provided tremendous support throughout the 12-month negotiations.

Members from Orange PC reviewing the document before the vote

Wyong Signal Box Decommissioning and Amalgamation with Gosford Signal Box

As part of the Network Control Strategy, on Saturday, 9 March 2024, Wyong Signal Box, which is the second oldest signal box on the network, was decommissioned and amalgamated with Gosford Signal Box.

The RTBU attended this momentous occasion and hosted a BBQ for the Signallers and other divisions that attended to say farewell, such as Customer Service Attendants and Infrastructure. The occasion was a bittersweet moment, with retired members sharing stories from the past with many laughs and tears.

Alex Claassens, Craig Turner and Joanne McCallum attended to express our gratitude to this brave group of union members who stood their ground during the EA-protected industrial actions that blocked the NIF from running and were so instrumental in achieving the result of a fantastic enterprise agreement.

To all the members, whether they are leaving with VR or remaining with the railways and being redeployed to other areas, we say thank you.

Union delegates training

Union delegates training was in full swing throughout 2023 with two-day courses being held throughout the year.

The training focuses on basic skills that delegates need in the workplace, including:

• Supporting members

• How to recruit new members

• Problem solving

• mapping the workplace

• Role of the delegate

So, if you’re looking to improve your skills as a delegate, expand your knowledge, contact your organiser and arrange to attend one of the future training courses.

Feedback from previous participants includes:

‘Excellent interactive course with a lot of participation by participants’

‘I enjoyed the course and benefited from participating’.

‘Good course valuable skills to take home with’

Granville memorial

On January 18, we commemorated 47 years since the tragic Granville rail disaster

A service was held at the memorial garden in Granville, attended by RTBU NSW Secretary Alex Claassens

On the morning of January 18, 1977, a crowded commuter train travelling from the Blue Mountains to Sydney derailed and struck the supporting pillars of Bold Street Bridge, causing the structure to collapse onto the third and fourth carriages of the train.

The accident killed 83 passengers and injured more than 200 others in what has remained as Australia’s worst rail disaster.

Looking Out For Mental Health

We all know mental health issues are on the rise with the stresses and strains of work life /balance and not everyone is able to handle what life situation can throw up, so we need to look out for each other along the way.

The RTBU was invited to the Glenfield network base in 2023 to attend the Ice Bath challenge, to raise awareness of mental health.

The challenge was put on by talk2mebro, a non-for-profit organisation looking to develop and reduce suicides to zero throughout Australia.

Since their inception in 2018, the volunteers behind #talk2mebro have presented to over 10,000 people within the Illawarra, South-Western Sydney and Newcastle Regions of NSW. The impact has been widespread, and the outcomes

incredible. Their simple, no-fluff ethos resonates with men and has saved countless lives.

Mental health is an integral part of our daily lives, however it often remains unseen and unspoken. It’s important to remember that just because something isn’t visibly apparent it doesn’t mean it’s not there.

If you want to make a difference in your workplace, have fun at lunch time to raise awareness to mental health contact talk2mebro and take up the ice bath challenge.

• Contact talk2mebro

https://www.talk2mebro.org.au/#

• Ryan Edwards

0403965056

Josh & Ryan ice bath challenge Glenfield Networkbase

Bindarrah Level Crossing Accident

2023 finished in the worst way possible for our railway family with a horror crash at Bindarrah, near the border of South Australia and New South Wales, taking the life of two of our finest.

Port Augusta Pacific National Delegate Mick Warren and his mate Kevin Baker were killed when their train collided with a truck at a level crossing on the Barrier Highway.

Mick and Kevin were both highly-respected members of the rail industry and much-loved members of the RTBU family and they will be dearly missed by everyone who knew them. The RTBU sends its deepest condolences to the families, friends and comrades of both Mick and Kevin.

The collision is under investigation by both the police and the Australian Transport Safety Bureau, but there was no suggestion the train crew were at fault in any way. It has been reported that the level crossing is on flat land and has active protection (flashing lights).

The 75-year old truck driver survived with minor injuries, and police have charged him with two counts of death by dangerous driving.

Regardless of the outcome of the investigations into this incident, it is clear that much more needs to be done to tackle level crossing safety. Your Union will be seeking meetings with all State and Territory Governments to see

what more can be done to stop drivers from taking risks around level crossings.

National Office will also be making sure that level crossing safety is front-at-centre in the upcoming national review of the Rail Safety National Law.

Truck driver charged over freight train collision in Northern Territory Safety Matters

Northern Territory Police have released the details of charges that have been laid against a truck driver who caused a huge collision with a full-laden freight train in Katherine in June last year.

According to NT Police, the truck driver failed to observe the prewarning light, level crossing, and boom gates as he approached the crossing.

Faced with insufficient room to bring the truck to a controlled stop, the driver attempted to accelerate across the tracks, resulting in a collision with a train.

The truck driver has now been issued a summons to appear in court on charges that include recklessly

endangering life/serious harm, reckless damage to property, driving dangerously, careless driving, driving using a handheld mobile device, and entering a level crossing when warning lights were active. Police will allege the driver was distracted using a handheld mobile device immediately before the collision, in which four people were injured (including the truck driver).

The details of the charges are extremely concerning for workers in

the rail industry.

When stop signs, flashing lights and boom gates still don’t stop people from driving through boom gates, it’s clear that the message on level crossing safety just isn’t getting through.

The collision in Katherine could have been much worse. Luckily, everyone escaped with their lives – that time. But as we saw at Bindarrah on New Year’s Eve, these collisions can be fatal.

Funding for level crossing upgrades in NSW

The Federal Government has committed $160 million in funding over four years to state and territory governments to fund up to half the cost of delivering railway crossing upgrades.

In the first round of funding, NSW will receive $28 million to go towards a program of works across the state’s regional road network with 23 priority projects identified in areas including Wongarbon, Molong, Condobolin, Griffith, Muswellbrook and Armidale.

The upgrades will include the installation of retroreflective boom gates, audible warning devices, updated signage and LED flashing lights to increase the visibility of crossings on both sides of the road in response to approaching trains.

Digital technology trial to improve level crossing safety in rural and regional areas

The $1.2 million dollar trial will be run by Transport for NSW in partnership with the Federal Government, the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) and technology company Rail Safety Systems.

Flashing lights at the crossing ,as well as wireless trainactivated advanced signage which warns motorists that there is a train approaching, will form part of the technology called Rail Active Crossing System (RAXS).

RAXS is a modular, low-cost technology that is specifically designed for rural and remote locations to turn passive level crossings into active sites.

The system is solar-powered, cost-effective, easy to install and will potentially need less maintenance.

The installation of the first level crossing using the RAXS technology is due to take place this year, with a suitable location currently being determined by Transport for NSW and the ARTC.

National Level Crossing Safety Summit

Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) statistics show there are, on average, over 500 ‘near misses’ at level crossings every year.

That’s why the RTBU is calling for an urgent national level crossing summit.

The current approach is not working, so we need to look at ramping up grade separations, stronger penalties for people who encroach on rail corridors, and other warning technologies. Everything needs to be on the table.

Rail workers are demanding urgent action to prevent more level crossing deaths after two train drivers and RTBU members were killed on New Year’s Eve near the border of South Australia and New South Wales.

Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) Assistant National Secretary Shayne Kummerfeld has called for a zero tolerance approach to level crossing safety, with cameras at all level crossings and harsher penalties for drivers who drove across rail lines in front of trains.

“Anyone who has ever driven a locomotive has probably had a near miss at a level crossing, with someone trying to ‘beat the train’,” Mr Kummerfeld said.

“The level crossing madness simply has to stop.”

Mr Kummerfeld said four people were injured in a similar collision between a freight train and a truck at a railway level crossing in Katherine, in the Northern Territory, during June 2023.

“The rail industry has been talking about level crossing safety for years, but the tragedies keep happening,” he said

“It’s time that Governments across the country took a tougher approach to stop people from taking stupid risks around level crossings.

“For a start, there needs to be a zero tolerance approach to running red lights at level crossings.

“All level crossings should be equipped with cameras to catch drivers who stray into the rail corridor when a train is approaching, and heavy penalties must apply to people who do the wrong thing.”

Mr Kummerfeld said better infrastructure and better use of technology could also help reduce level crossing incidents.

“Governments should also be putting more funding towards improving level crossing protection - with more warning lights, more boom gates and more grade separations.”

Furthermore, Mr Kummerfeld said governments should investigate options for in-car warning systems to let drivers know when trains or emergency service vehicles are approaching.

“Police already have technology that lets them know that a nearby driver is using their phone, so that sort of technology should be relatively easy to develop.

“Ultimately, it is up to all road users to take extreme care around level crossings and obey the law. Anyone who drives across a level crossing in front of a train is putting lives at risk.”

Whistlestop

Vale Robert (Bob) Hackett

It is with great sadness that we convey that another railway man has been lost way too early, passing away surrounded by family on January 16, after suffering an unexpected aneurysm.

Robert (Bob) Hackett born in 1942, was a humble man by nature with a pure heart of gold and loving family man. He was a Professional Driver and staunch Union delegate, when he decided to take redundancy in 1998 at the age of 56. As he said, 41 years is enough work for anyone, especially a Train Driver.

Bob passed the reins onto his son Eliott and let’s just say

the apple didn’t fall far from the tree, taking up from his dad.

Robert (Bob) Started on the railway in Junee in 1957 as a call boy, riding his bike around town in all weather conditions calling crews.

He found his calling as a fireman on the steam and years later driver, known as an absolute professional behind the controls and a longer serving and dedicated Union Delegate.

Bob will be sorely missed by many.

Vale Kenneth ‘Stapo’ Stapleton

The Locomotive Division is saddened to learn of the passing of AFULE/PTU stalwart and Loco Division Life Member, Kenneth ‘Stapo’ Stapleton.

Ken was a formidable presence at the Divisional Council table and in the workplace. Stapo passed away at the age of 91 in Cootamundra late last month.

Farren Campbell stated recently that on behalf of the Division, Loco Exec, and the membership, I would like to extend our deepest condolences to Ken’s wife June and the rest of the family.

Tarviner Panesar retires

Infrastructure Delegate and SubDivision representative Tarvinder Panesar retired from Sydney Trains on January 19 and several events were organised to honour his contribution to the railways. Branch Secretary, Alex Claassens, and Organiser, Wayne Moody, were invited to a morning tea at the Granville depot on January 18 and it was a privilege to say a few words and be there for our great delegate.

Tarvinder worked at the Sydenham depot for 30 years with the last 4 years in MTP Granville.

Tarvinder thanks all the members who have always supported him with his RTBU union activities. Tarvinder’s membership records shows:

• Joined the Union in 1991

• Workplace Representative from 2010

• Infrastructure Sub -Divisional committee member 2019 up to present

• Branch Committee member from 2011 to 2018

Tarvinder’s workmates provided the following reflection on their colleague’s career:

Tarvinder was always there for the team, if we were not happy with a process or felt like we were made to do things that went against what EBA stated he was the first to speak up and raise the issue, very vocal

on a fair treatment of his fellow staff. Happy to help anyone and be a support person if required. Tarvinder always maintained one thing above all and that was workers must stick together no matter what. We wish Tarvinder all the best with his new ventures.

Lorna Hutchins celebrates 60 years of service

A celebration of 60 years of service was held on February 9 at the Kingsgrove depot for Lorna Hutchins

Lorna began her career in the bus industry as a conductor in 1964, collecting fares on one of the old double-deckers.

She then went on to break down gender barriers at that time, by becoming a driver in an industry that is typically dominated by men.

Sixty years after her first shift, Lorna still loves the bus industry and now works as a duty officer at the Kingsgrove depot.

The celebration was attended by Branch Secretary, Alex Claassens, as well as many of Lorna’s past and present colleagues who presented her with commemorative gifts. An original double-decker bus, like one from when Lorna started her career, was brought in especially for the occasion.

RTBU Branch Secretary Alex Claassens, T&B delegate William Lekkas with Lorna Hutchins

If you have left the industry, permanently or for a period, have retired, or are off work due to illness, or no longer want to be a member of the RTBU, 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 for more information.

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

CHANGE OF DETAILS FORM

I/We authorise and request the Australian Rail Tram and Bus Industry 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.

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FORM

I, the undersigned, hereby apply to become a member of the Australian Rail, Tram and 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 and By-Laws for the time being of the Union.

Signature of Applicant Dated

I, the undersigned, hereby apply to become a member of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union of New South Wales, 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 Australian Rail, Tram and Bus Industry 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 Australian Rail, Tram and Bus Industry 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

PLEASE KEEP THE FOLLOWING FOR YOUR REFERENCE

RESIGNATION FROM MEMBERSHIP OF THE RTBU

1. A member may resign from membership of the Union by written notice addressed and delivered to the Secretary of his/her Branch.

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.

4. A notice delivered to the Branch Secretary shall be deemed to have been received by when it was delivered.

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.

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.

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 and 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.

The RTBU Executive, Officers and Staff wish all members and their families

Level 4, 321 Pitt Street

Sydney NSW 2000

Tel (02) 9264 2511

Email: nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au

Website: www.rtbuexpress.com.au