Thousands of ACT public servants are set to walk off the job after overwhelmingly rejecting the government's latest pay offer. The Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) announced that its members voted 95% in favour of industrial action, with a 24-hour strike planned for next week.
Pay dispute escalates
The union has been negotiating with the ACT government for months over a new enterprise agreement. The key sticking point is the government's offer of a 2.5% annual pay rise, which the union says is insufficient given rising living costs. The CPSU is seeking a 4% increase per year, along with improved conditions for remote work and flexible hours.
Union demands
CPSU ACT branch secretary Maddie North said members are frustrated with the lack of progress. "Our members have been working hard throughout the pandemic and deserve a fair wage that keeps up with inflation," she said. "The government needs to come back to the table with a genuine offer."
The union is also calling for better job security provisions and a commitment to no forced redundancies. Many public servants have expressed concerns about the increasing use of contractors and casual workers.
Government response
ACT Industrial Relations Minister Mick Gentleman expressed disappointment at the strike vote, urging the union to continue negotiations. "We believe our offer is fair and reasonable, and we want to avoid disruption to public services," he said. The government has indicated it is willing to discuss non-wage issues but maintains that the 2.5% offer is its final position on pay.
Services likely to be affected include public hospitals, schools, and administrative offices. Essential services will be maintained, but delays are expected.
Impact on Canberrans
The strike is expected to cause significant disruption across the capital. Parents are being advised to make alternative childcare arrangements as many public school teachers will participate. Hospital appointments may also be rescheduled.
Local businesses are concerned about the potential economic impact, with many workers expected to stay home. However, some residents have expressed support for the public servants' cause, acknowledging the pressure of rising living costs.
Next steps
The CPSU has indicated that further strikes could follow if a resolution is not reached. The union is planning a series of rolling stoppages and work bans. Mediation talks are scheduled for later this week, but both sides remain far apart.
This dispute mirrors similar conflicts in other states, where public sector workers are pushing for higher wages amid inflation. The outcome in the ACT could set a precedent for negotiations elsewhere.
