Maribyrnong council workers have launched industrial action following a breakdown in negotiations with management over a new workplace agreement.
Workers claim their fight for a fair deal is being undermined by a range of poor offers, including a pay increase below that of workers at other councils.
Protected action beginning today includes work bans on cleaning streets, public toilets and bins as well as mowing or litter pick-up in high-profile parks and sporting fields. There are also bans on issuing permits and invoices.
The Australian Services Union (ASU) is seeking a pay increase of about 4 per cent, which it argues is in step with other councils.
ASU organiser Melissa Wainwright said management had refused to offer any ‘‘real improvements’’ to the working conditions of employees. “It’s not just about the pay; this is about the conditions that have not been agreed on as well.”
Ms Wainwright said union delegates and members keen to resolve several issues put together a list of eight key points in late July.
“Here we are in October and management is still arguing about these. I don’t think they are genuinely interested in resolving this.”
Sticking points include “end of band” or service recognition in the form of annual leave and “poor” pay increases for all staff, according to Ms Wainwright.
“I think the community would be concerned to hear that the council publicly promoted no violence against women, but it won’t put the ASU family violence clause in the agreement.’’ The industrial action involves about 35 work bans, but there are no immediate plans for workers to walk off the job.’’
Council chief executive Vince Haining said workers had been offered a 3.2 per cent wage increase worth about $40 per week.
“We have agreed to a range of other claims and benefits. However, it is difficult to justify increases beyond the current offer. We will continue to work with our staff and the unions to seek resolution.”
Mr Haining and the ASU recognise there will be negative impacts on residents until the dispute is resolved.
