A Message from the VIC Branch Secretary

It’s been a big couple of months for our AWU Victoria members. I’m incredibly proud of the solidarity shown at Falls Creek, Mt Hotham, Mt Buller, and Mt Baw Baw, where members are taking Protected Industrial Action for fair weekend penalty rates. Despite Alpine Resorts Victoria’s efforts to sideline us, our resolve has only strengthened. We’re also standing firm against intimidating behaviour, taking the fight to the Fair Work Commission.

A real win came on 1 July, with new laws boosting rights for union delegates. These changes give delegates the facilities and training they need to support their workmates effectively. We’re also working hard to ensure the new silica dust regulations are enforced, keeping our members safe from harm. Meanwhile, a big victory for over 600 members at BlueScope Western Port saw $3 million in compensation secured for unfair leave deductions, plus retention of their 250% public holiday penalty rate.

In Geelong, our Infrabuild members are holding strong for a fairer deal. Their courage reminds us why we do what we do.

We’re also about to ramp up action with our DEECA firefighters. Six months after bargaining was supposed to start, the department finally came to the table following an AWU-led dispute at the Fair Work Commission. With 87% of members citing wages as the top priority, our survey showed no appetite for the government’s current wage policy. Our members—especially women—under the Field Staff Agreement are among the lowest-paid in the Victorian Government, and it’s time to change that.

These firefighters don’t just fight fires; they prepare for the fire season, lead flood recovery, respond to animal disease outbreaks, and were on the front lines during COVID-19. Despite this, the department continues to push for the government wage policy plus a small cost of living bonus, which our members have rejected. We’ve launched a Protected Industrial Action campaign, and PABO documents are being submitted this week.

Adding to the challenges, FFM Vic’s restructure is set to reduce 208 net roles, affecting 22 AWU members directly, with several depots slated for closure. We’re submitting a formal response and will continue fighting to protect our members’ jobs.

Thank you for standing with us. Together, we’ll keep pushing for what’s fair.