VIC: Metro & Yarra Trams on Notice

Around 1,500 people have rallied outside Melbourne’s Flinders Street Station in a sign of growing community anger at the behaviour of Metro Trains Melbourne and Yarra Trams. 

RTBU members at Melbourne’s metropolitan passenger train and tram operators have overwhelmingly voted in favour of protected industrial action.

The MTM ballot recorded 98% ‘YES” vote, while the Yarra Trams ballot recorded an even more resounding 99.4% “YES” vote.

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Victorian Branch Secretary Luba Grigorovitch said Melbourne’s public transport workers were sick and tired of the arrogant behaviour of MTM and Yarra Trams management.

“These two giant multinationals have been milking Melbourne commuters and public transport workers dry for the past six years – and sending every cent back to their overseas shareholders,” Luba said.

Speaking at the rally, National Secretary Bob Nanva warned Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews not to be seduced by the big corporations running Melbourne’s public transport network.

“Because, if you get into bed with the bosses, then I can guarantee that you’ll wake up in the morning and regret it,” Bob said.

STOP PRESS

Tram workers in Melbourne have taken industrial action, shutting down the network for four hours. Workers at Metro Trains Melbourne have also announced a 4-hour stoppage for Friday 4 September.