Workers employed in ACT government city services, including rubbish collection and park maintenance, have voted to take industrial action after pay negotiations reached an impasse. The vote, conducted by the Australian Services Union (ASU), saw 96% of members support protected industrial action, which could begin within weeks.
Strike Vote Details
The ballot, which closed on Thursday, authorised the union to take a range of actions, including stoppages, bans on overtime, and work-to-rule campaigns. The workers are seeking a wage increase of 4.5% per year, while the ACT government has offered 2.5% annually, citing budget constraints.
ASU branch secretary Michael Kaine said the result demonstrated the strength of feeling among workers. "Our members are absolutely fed up with being undervalued. They've been working hard throughout the pandemic, and they deserve a fair pay rise," he said.
Potential Impact on Services
If strike action proceeds, residents could face delays in waste collection, unkempt parks, and reduced street cleaning services. The union has indicated it will give seven days' notice before any industrial action, allowing the government time to respond.
ACT Minister for City Services Tara Cheyne said the government was disappointed by the vote but remained committed to negotiations. "We value our city services workers and want to reach a fair outcome, but we must also be responsible with taxpayers' money," she said.
Previous Negotiations
Talks have been ongoing since the previous enterprise agreement expired in June. The ASU has accused the government of refusing to budge from its offer, despite rising inflation and cost-of-living pressures. The government counters that its offer is in line with other public sector agreements.
"We've been patient, but this government is not listening," Kaine said. "Our members are ready to take action if necessary."
The next round of negotiations is scheduled for next week, with the union hoping the strike vote will pressure the government to improve its offer.
