Message from RTBU National Secretary Mark Diamond

The bushfire crisis gripping Australia is unprecedented.

This a time that all Australian’s must come together. A time when the collective spirit must resonate in all of us, and differences must be put aside. We must all pitch in to protect those impacted and then, in time, to rebuild.

I am aware that many of you have been impacted by the fires directly and, if not, you have friends and family that have been.

I am also aware that many of you continue to work under almost impossible conditions in order to keep communities connected and services moving.

I am even aware that the fires bring additional safety risks for you - including smoke exposure, stressed passengers and customers, the evacuation threat and suspension of services.

To assist, the RTBU is talking with employers across the country to ensure that these fire-related risks are mitigated as much as possible. If you believe that more can be done to mitigate these additional risks, then contact your local Delegate or Branch with your proposed solution.

Lastly, I want to thank each and every one of you for your valiant efforts in keeping Australia moving in such trying times. Over the last few days I have heard countless stories of RTBU members stepping up to assist the community both in a professional and a personal capacity. This is what having each other’s backs looks like.

As the devastation unfolds, the RTBU will be talking to service providers about how we can assist either now or in the aftermath. If we are requested to take a particular action, we will keep you updated.

Stay safe.

Mark Diamond
NATIONAL SECRETARY