SECURITY, BARGAINING & A HSR WIN by Vik Sharma

Network Security

The RTBU has been invited to participate in an industry roundtable to tackle the issue of trespassers on the network.

Trespassing on the Victorian network is higher than all other jurisdictions around Australia and as such is receiving attention from government and industry stakeholders.

As the union representing public transport workers, we know the impact this can have on members with different factors ranging from operational disruption through to mental and physical wellbeing.

The industry roundtable will include all relevant stakeholders across the industry to work collaboratively on addressing trespassing and recidivist behaviour to make the network safer and more secure.

It is anticipated that the first of many meetings will be held in September

EA Bargaining

With the V/Line Operations EA now pending certification from the Fair Work Commission and the V/Line Infrastructure agreement agreed in-principle, the major round of public transport bargaining is coming to a close.

In the meantime, bargaining continues for the many members employed with the smaller employers across our industry.

This includes the Probe PTV call centre, Baggage Handlers, Labour Hire and specialist rail projects and maintenance services.

As we move into the next phase, work begins on implementing the significant improvements negotiated for members throughout EA bargaining including classification changes, new initiatives, and roster reviews where necessary.

Get in touch should you want a more indepth update on your local area.

HSR WIN!

The RTBU has had a significant win for safety on-site, solidifying the power of HSRs.

With the support of the RTBU, a HSR has been successful in demanding information relating to an incident that the company had sought to redact.

This was challenged through WorkSafe who supported the HSR, but the employer took the matter to VCAT to avoid handing over relevant documents.

They cited the Privacy Act, claiming that the information would breach the privacy of the people involved.

VCAT has handed down its decision recognising the key role played by HSRs and the importance of having information made available for them to thoroughly undertake their duties in ensuring a safer workplace.

This outcome has established strong precedent for HSRs requesting information relevant to safety issues in their workplace and workgroup.

This information can include copies of rosters, incident reports, logs, and other information collected and/or held by the employer that relates to the safety of the workgroup.

To find out more, contact your union Organiser.