SA bus drivers will strike this weekend in protest of current work conditions
It’s time to build a better bus industry.
That’s the call coming from Adelaide bus drivers who will hold a four hour strike this weekend as they continue to negotiate better work conditions with two of the major companies in the city.
The workplace agreement negotiations between the Transport Workers Union and operators SouthLink and Transfield (Light City Buses) are ongoing, and have seen no improvements to drivers’ security, working conditions or pay.
The drivers will strike this Sunday from 10am to 2pm, and those participating will not wear uniforms to work until the dispute has been resolved.
Instead, drivers will don t-shirts with the slogan “It’s Time to Build a Better Bus Industry”.
This will be in addition to drivers not collecting fare and not enforcing ticket validation while driving, which will start today (Wednesday).
TWU South Australia/Northern Territory Secretary Ray Wyatt says striking is a last resort and a decision not taken lightly.
“Just like the decision to keep the bus network running over Australia Day long weekend, our bus drivers have again put the community first by choosing to strike during an off peak time.”
Wyatt says there needs to be a breakthrough in negotiations soon.
“This dispute is all about safety,” he says.
“The community needs a safe, world class bus network and our drives need safe working conditions and safe rates of pay for the difficult job they do.”
During the strike, bus drivers and their families will gather on the banks of the Torrens and the union will set up barbeques, music and a jumping castle to further the awareness of the campaign.