Sydney Rail Unions, Government Reach Pay Deal

Ending Months of Disruptions for Commuters

After a protracted and contentious negotiation, rail unions and the **Sydney** state government have come to terms on a new pay agreement, promising relief for weary commuters. The resolution seeks to put an end to months of industrial action that caused significant network disruptions.

Key Points of the Agreement

**Warnes** stated that “It’s fantastic that this long, and often bitter, dispute can finally be put behind us and that workers can get back to doing what they do best – moving commuters safely around the state.”

While the government conceded to a higher pay increase than the initially proposed 9.5% over three years, the agreement incorporates key wins for the state. Specifically, an outdated crisis communication system will be replaced.

The existing method of phone calls and manual note-taking during network emergencies will be replaced with a modern, digital system.

Past Disruptions and Disputes

In May, a broken overhead wire brought the train network to a near standstill for three days. According to **Sydney Trains** chief executive **Matt Longland**, the antiquated note-taking system exacerbated the chaos.

Commuters have felt the brunt of the dispute since last September, with crowded platforms and packed carriages becoming commonplace. The industrial campaign threatened major events, including New Year’s Eve celebrations.

In February, **Treasurer Daniel Mookhey** accused the RTBU of “gaslighting Sydney” with a “sneak strike” after a union convenor’s messages urged members to “just not show up” for shifts and “f— the network up”.

According to Transport for NSW, train delays in **Sydney** cost the economy $195 million in lost productivity in 2022 alone (Transport for NSW).

Fair Work Intervention

A temporary solution emerged in February when the Fair Work Commission mandated an end to industrial action by the unions. However, that order expired on July 1.