Up to two million Ausgrid customers could face inconveniences as part of a strike planned by Electrical Trades Union (ETU) members who work at Ausgrid.
Around 1,600 ETU members have voted in favour of a range of industrial actions across Sydney and parts of regional New South Wales starting from August 1, claiming Ausgrid has refused to agree to a wage increase that recognises the rise in the cost of living.
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While emergency work will not be affected by the action, households and businesses could experience maintenance delays and other inconveniences unless Ausgrid offers workers a payrise that helps them keep up with the soaring cost of living.
Ausgrid is the third major power company in NSW in a dispute about giving workers the pay and conditions they deserve, joining Transgrid and Endeavour Energy.
ETU NSW/ACT Secretary Allen Hicks said, “The millions of Australians who rely on the east coast’s largest electricity distributor should be alarmed to learn how Ausgrid is treating its staff, who keep their power running and their lights on day in and day out,” he said.
“Ausgrid’s insulting pay offer has left workers with no choice but to launch industrial action including work stoppages.
“ETU members haven’t yet received an offer that will allow them to keep up with cost of living increases. They have no choice but to continue to exercise their legal right to withdraw their labour until they get an offer that doesn’t send their wages backwards.”
An Ausgrid spokesperson told Energy Source & Distribution, “Ausgrid is disappointed by the Electrical Trade Union’s decision to reject an offer of a new Enterprise Agreement and undertake protected industrial action.
“On 12 July, Ausgrid put forward a strong offer as part of our Enterprise Agreement renewal. Our three-year offer includes a first-year increase of 7% plus 0.5 % super increase, a second-year increase of 2.7% (or CPI if it is higher) plus 0.5% super increase and a third-year increase of 2.7% (or CPI if it is higher). Ausgrid already provides superannuation at 15.5% per annum. This offer will take our super contribution to Enterprise Agreement employees to 16.5% in year 2. Further, our offer maintains all conditions with a number of added enhancements.”
Ausgrid group executive of people and culture Celina Cross said the wage offer was fair and reasonable.
“We respect the rights of the ETU, however, we are disappointed this action has been taken,” she said.
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“Our offer is fair and reasonable for our people and affordable for communities we serve.
“It recognises cost of living pressures and rewards our people for their hard work. In addition, it ensures Ausgrid remains a great place to work where safety is our priority.
“Ausgrid continues to hold weekly discussions in good faith with all parties to reach an agreement.”
