2015 rail and road - june edition

RAILROADAN

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THE MAGAZINE OF THE NSW BRANCH OF THE RAIL, TRAM & BUS UNION

VOLUME 107 No.2 June 2015

Print Post Approved 25500003-01148

RTBU Celebrates May Day

Selective advertising is available in RAIL & ROAD at competitive individual issue rates or a discounted annual rate. A design service is also available to have your advertisement professionally designed to your specifications.

RAILROADAN

D ADVERTISINGRATES

RAIL & ROAD is the official journal of the NSW Branch of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union and is produced as part of the union’s communication strategy to inform and report on matters of interest to members. All editorial and advertising inquiries should be addressed to Peter O’Connor Telephone: 0430 188 116 e-mail: [email protected] Printing - Brightset, Banksmeadow, (02) 9316 4800 Art & Design - P Design - [email protected] - Phone 0402 032 949

RTBU Holiday ParkVacancies - Book your holiday nowThe RTBU Holiday Park is a great place to escape to for a peaceful break in the

National Park and a walk along the beach.Avoid the rush and the high season rates - book your holiday now. The Holiday

Park is situated in a National Park and Members can enjoy a holiday by the sea and relax with fishing, tennis, boating, swimming or bushwalking.

RTBU members can also now get discounted rates at the United Services Union Aquatic Resort (Motel and Caravan Park) at Port Macquarie.

For booking enquiries please telephone Head Office on

(02) 9264 2511

NSW BraNch

head OfficeLevel4, 321 Pitt Street,

Sydney NSW 2000

Tel (02) 92642511

Fax (02)92611342

Email [email protected]

Website www.rtbu-nsw.asn.au

Bus and Tram Division83-89 renwick Street

redfern NSW 2016

Tel (02) 93197277

Fax (02) 93194341

[email protected]

Locomotive DivisionLevel 4, 321 Pitt Street

Sydney NSW 2000

Tel (02) 92643400

Fax (02) 92647679


Newcastle Office33 Gordon avenue

hamilton NSW 2303

Tel (02) 4961 4311

Fax (02) 4961 4779

Wollongong OfficeLevel 1, 306a crown Street, Wollongong, 2500

Tel (02) 4227 5798


Branch ExecutiveSecretary alex claassens

President Phil Kessey

assistant Secretary Mick Schmitzer

OrganisersNewcastle Mick Schmitzer

Wollongong John curley

Frieght Organiser Steve Wright

Branch Organisers Brendan Edghill

Paul Douglas

Bob hayden

Lead Organisers

Phillip Kessey

Doug Klineberg

Lizanne Bennett

Education Officer Maryanne Stuart

Industrial Officer Peter O’connor

Selective advertising is available in RAIL & ROAD at competitive individual issue rates or a discounted annual rate. A design service is also available to have your advertisement professionally designed to your specifications.

RAILROADAN

D ADVERTISINGRATES

RAIL & ROAD is the official journal of the NSW Branch of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union and is produced as part of the union’s communication strategy to inform and report on matters of interest to members.

All editorial and advertising inquiries should be addressed to Peter O’Connor Telephone: (02) 9264 2511 e-mail: [email protected]

Printing - Brightset, Banksmeadow, (02) 9316 4800 art & Design - P Design - [email protected] - Phone 0402 032 949

RTBU Holiday ParkVacancies for School Holiday Period

The RTBU Holiday Park is situated in Jervis Bay on the South Coast.Modern self-contained units with colour TV, microwave ovens and

accomodate families of up to 6 persons. The Holiday Park is situated in a National Park and Members can enjoy a holiday by the sea and relax with

fishing, tennis, boating, swimming or bushwalking.

For booking enquiries please telephone Ingrid at Head Office on

(02) 9264 2511 or Dept: 34432

Keep your career rollingAll job applications professionally prepared

Expertly Written Selection CriteriaContact [email protected] or Telephone 02 9319 0926

NSW BrANch head OfficeLevel 4, 321 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW 2000Tel (02) 92642511 Fax (02) 92611342Email [email protected] www.rtbuexpress.com.au

Bus and Tram Division83-89 renwick Street redfern NSW 2016Tel (02) 93197277 Fax (02) 93194341Email [email protected]

Locomotive DivisionLevel 4, 321 Pitt StreetSydney NSW 2000Tel (02) 92643400 Fax (02) 92647679Email [email protected]

Newcastle Office33 Gordon Avenue, hamilton NSW 2303Tel (02) 4961 4311 Fax (02) 4961 4779Email [email protected]

Wollongong OfficeLevel 1, 306a crown Street, Wollongong, 2500 Tel (02) 4227 5798Email [email protected]

Branch ExecutiveSecretary Alex claassensPresident Joanne MccallumAssistant Secretary (road) David WoollamsAssistant Secretary (rail) robert hayden

Elected Full-Time OfficialsBranch Secretary Alex claassens

Locomotive Divisional Secretary robert hayden

Tram and Bus Divisional Secretarychris Preston

Tram and Bus Divisional PresidentGary Way

OrganisersWollongong John curleyFreight Organisers Steve Wright Kevin PryorPassenger Organiser Bob Newham Jessica Epps

Branch Organisers Lizanne Bennett helen Bellette Mick cartwright Michael Farhat Graham Fozzard Luke hayden communications Officer Peter O’connor

Jervis Bay

Find Us on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/RTBUNSW

From the Branch Secretary

Industrial NewsAurizon Decision Sends Shockwaves Across Industry . . . . . 5rTBU Leads campaign for Truth in Bargaining . . . . . . . . . . . 6rTBU Awaiting crucial ruling on Termination of Agreements . . 7Industrial NotesMortdale route Knowledge Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Pacific National Told to Defend Itself . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8STA Grow Perform Succeed Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Probation Extension Dispute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Shorts Are Back – Sydney Trains Uniforms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Shift Manager Training Dispute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10General NewsAsciano Urges Bigger role in Bargaining for FWc . . . . . . . 12New Unions campaign to Protect Workers rights . . . . . . . . 12

candlelight Vigil on Domestic Violence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14rTBU celebrates May Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Granville Signal Box celebrates harmony Day. . . . . . . . . . . 17Burwood Members clean War Memorial After 30 Years . . . 18Women in Male Dominated Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19campaign TrailMoving Forward on Women’s campaigns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Union calls for Security Screens on all Buses . . . . . . . . . . . 24Safety MattersrTBU challenge Sydney Trains Trial of No Safety Vest . . . . 25rTBU Members Unite to Stay off Unsafe roads . . . . . . . . . . 26rTBU, AMWU and UnionsNSW Take on Workcover . . . . . . . . 2Whistlestop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28rTBU concise Financial reports – Summaries . . . . . . . . . . 30

This issue of Rail & Road reports on a number of major industrial issues, including a recent Fair Work Commission decision to allow Aurizon to terminate 12 enterprise agreements, and potentially forcing thousands of employees back to minimum award wages and conditions. We have been actively involved in, and gained good results in a range of workplace disputes and issues that affect members working conditions. The ongoing reforms within the public transport areas and the general push of the NSW Government around cut backs to services and staff, and a number of disputes and difficult negotiations continue to keep our union busy. Since the last issue of Rail & Road, we have had a State election, where the NSW Coalition Government, under Premier Baird was returned with a reduced majority, and suffering substantial losses in areas directly affected by the series of ICAC corruption findings. The election result was a protest against some of the major policies of the Government, and a backlash against the seemingly endless corruption allegations that have seen more than a dozen members of the Government resign in the past year.

RTBU activists and members continue to participate in a range of community-based forums, such as the Local Union Community Councils, the Sydney Alliance and others, as a means of promoting measures that will improve transport industry and our members, as well as working families generally. The RTBU turned out in regional centres and Sydney for the annual May Day protest and celebration of union achievements.Members are also reminded in this issue of our journal that union dues will be increasing from 1 July, for the first time in two years. While the union tries to minimise any such increase in dues, this is the main source of funds for the range of activities that the union undertakes to defend and protect members working conditions. Members are increasingly realising that direct debit is the only secure way of paying their union dues, I would encourage all members to organise their union deductions by direct debit. This issue of the journal also contains summaries of the Concise Financial Reports for both the NSW Branch of the Federal Union and the State

registered union for the previous year. Full copies of the Concise Financial Reports can be found on the RTBU website. As is always the case, the RTBU is continually engaged in discussions, negotiations and campaigns that will protect and improve the working lives of our members, as well as looking at different services and innovative partnerships that will benefit members and their families. This journal provides a snapshot of the range of activities, successes and activities of the union in these areas over the past few months.Regardless of who is in government Federally or in NSW, or what new stunts industry employers try to weaken our rights at work, our union must continue to provide a united and strong voice for all members, and the long term viability of public and private transport services in this state. As long as we remain united, focused and prepared to fight for our rights and our jobs and working conditions, we will remain in a strong position to defend our members and their families.

In this Issue

Many of our experienced partners are NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists, so to have an initial relaxed chat with a genuinely caring and skilful laywer about your situation, and find out what your options are from here, call your Caroll & O’Dea free LegalHelpline now...

Over 100 years of client service you can trust

How to choose the right lawyer for you...

1800 816 559

www.codea.com.au [email protected]

Let our specialist experience be your guide:• a Negligence Claim• a Compensation Claim• Wills or Probate• Estate Planning Employment

• Work Health & Safety• A Vehicle Claim• An Insurance Claim

or Dispute Buying & Selling Property

The Partners of Carroll & O’Dea are pleased that a number of the partners and team from White Barnes Solicitors have joined Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers.

The framework for these considerations was based on the common goals and aspirations for clients that both firms share. White Barnes and Carroll & O’Dea have long histories of acting for members of trade unions much like the Rail Tram & Bus Union.

White Barnes Solicitors have joined Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers

rAIL & rOAD June 2015

Many of our experienced partners are NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists, so to have an initial relaxed chat with a genuinely caring and skilful laywer about your situation, and find out what your options are from here, call your Caroll & O’Dea free LegalHelpline now...

Over 100 years of client service you can trust

How to choose the right lawyer for you...

1800 816 559

www.codea.com.au [email protected]

Let our specialist experience be your guide:• a Negligence Claim• a Compensation Claim• Wills or Probate• Estate Planning Employment

• Work Health & Safety• A Vehicle Claim• An Insurance Claim

or Dispute Buying & Selling Property

The Partners of Carroll & O’Dea are pleased that a number of the partners and team from White Barnes Solicitors have joined Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers.

The framework for these considerations was based on the common goals and aspirations for clients that both firms share. White Barnes and Carroll & O’Dea have long histories of acting for members of trade unions much like the Rail Tram & Bus Union.

White Barnes Solicitors have joined Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers

Industrial News

Aurizon Decision Sends Shockwaves Across Industry

The RTBU has now appealed the decision and is awaiting a ruling from the full bench of FWC to try to have the decision overturned.National Secretary Bob Nanva has slammed the decision, calling it a kick in the guts to Aurizon workers, a massive blow to regional Queensland and a frightening sign of what’s to come for workers across the country.“Let’s be clear about what this decision means,” Bob said.“Aurizon was sick of negotiating with its workers over new agreements, so it decided to take its bat and ball and go home.“It wanted to terminate 12 agreements covering 6,000 workers and throw them all back onto the minimum award protections.The Fair Work Commission had to decide whether or not this corporate tantrum, this industrial dummy spit, was in the public interest.“Incredibly, the Commission decided

that terminating the agreements was in the public interest so that Aurizon could become more “competitive”, at a time when Aurizon has around 70-75 per cent share in Queensland. Clearly the independent umpire needs new glasses. “Bob said the Fair Work Commission had rewarded Aurizon for its petulant and aggressive behaviour by giving it a massive advantage over its competitors.“this decision, the wages and conditions that were hard earned by workers, that were an important part of the agreement when the Queensland Government privatised Queensland Rail, have been washed away in the stroke of a pen.“The Commission has taken the pressure off Aurizon to take bargaining seriously and to renegotiate a reasonable deal with its employees.“A handful of well-paid Commissioners have put a dagger

through the heart of workplace conditions including maternity leave and job security protections.“There could be huge ramifcations from the decision beyond the rail industry.Other major employers right across Australia will be thinking ‘if Aurizon can get away with this kind of industrial sabotage, we might as well have a go at it too.’Bob said the decision meant that agreements negotiated in good faith were now fair game.“We could now be facing a tsunami of industrial disputes right across the country as a result of this short-sighted decision.“It’s clear that employers, and even the Fair Work Commission itself, have been emboldened by the aggressive anti-worker agenda of the Abbott Government and Workplace relations Minister Eric Abetz.”

The decision by the Fair Work Commission to terminate 12 Aurizon enterprise agreements has sent shockwaves around the rail industry, and across the country.

A handful of well-paid Commissioners have put a dagger through the heart of

workplace conditions including maternity leave and job security protections.

RTBU Leads Campaign for Truth in Bargaining

National Secretary Bob Nanva has called for an amendment to the Fair Work Act to force companies to disclose their fnancial projections and other information to unions during enterprise negotiations.

“All unions have their war-stories about being told of impending fnancial doom by an employer during enterprise negotiations – only to see the same employer boasting about the coming rivers of gold in their proft forecasts to investors," Bob says.

“In our case, we’ve seen Aurizon seek to wipe out 12 Enterprise Agreements on the grounds that it’s supposedly uncompetitive – despite the fact its half yearly profts have nearly tripled to over $300 million, and it controls around 70 to 75 per cent of the coal market in Queensland.

“That’s why we’re embarking on a campaign to mandate truth in bargaining, and to put a stop to the lies and nonsense of companies like Aurizon.”

The RTBU has received support from other unions including the AWU, TWU and MUA. Unions also raised the issue at the at recent ACTU Congress, and will raise at the upcoming ALP National Conference.

Workplace Relations Minister Eric Abetz has come out rubbishing the proposal, and backing the rights of companies to keep their workers in the dark about their profitability.

Senator Abetz told the Australian Financial Review that providing financial information to unions would have “absolutely disastrous” consequences for employers.

In response, Bob Nanva said: “working people are sick of the political games, and sick of people like Senator Abetz telling them they can’t handle the truth.”

Workplace Relations Minister Eric Abetz in full flight

The Aurizon dispute has also sparked a new union campaign for Truth in Bargaining - to force employers to be honest about the true state of their financial projection during their negotiations with workers over pay and conditions.

Proudto Be

UNIONMY UNION FOUGhT FOr MYOvertime and Penalty Rates* ... And Won!* Before unions won the fight for minimum work hours and negotiated fixed rates for overtime payments, workers could work at any time of the day or week as required by employers, at their ordinary rate of pay, and often for no additional pay.

rAIL, TrAM AND BUS UNION, NSW BrANch

OVErTIME AND PENALTY rATES


RTBU Awaiting Crucial Ruling on Termination of AgreementsA full Federal Court on 21 May reserved its judgment on the RTBU's bid to reinstate 12 enterprise agreements covering workers at rail freight operator Aurizon.

The union is challenging a Fair Work Commission full bench decision to allow the rail freight operator Aurizon to terminate a dozen agreements that are past their nominal expiry date.

Counsel for the RTBU, Warren Friend QC, told the Federal Court hearing in Melbourne that the FWC full bench decision was wrong in focusing on productivity alone rather than on the objectives of the Fair Work Act.

"We say they looked at it through the wrong prism," Friend said.

He cited the 2010 ruling in Re Tahmoor Coal Pty Ltd, in which Vice President Michael Lawler found the Fair Work Act's objects were "clearly relevant", and particularly those at s3(f) and s171(a), when assessing whether to terminate enterprise agreements under s226.

Vice President Lawler said those particular objects "indicate that collective bargaining in good faith for an enterprise agreement is the central way in which, in the framework that has been established by the FW Act, productivity benefits are to be achieved".

But the full bench in the Aurizon case — Vice President Graeme Watson, Deputy President Val Gostencnik and Commissioner Paula Spencer — accepted arguments from the company last month that this interpretation was "misplaced".

In the full Federal Court hearing, the company’s barrister, Harry Dixon SC, told the court that s226 required the Commission to terminate an agreement if the statutory requirements were met, as they "squarely" did in the Aurizon case.

Dixon said that the Aurizon negotiations had been underway for almost two years, with hundreds of meetings, and there was nothing to stop continued collective bargaining.

The RTBU also argued that the FWC full bench did not take full account of the public interest because the Queensland Competition Authority was preparing a regulatory ruling based on the current pay and conditions.

But Dixon argued the regulatory ruling was a draft document only and could be changed.

The judges — Chris Jessup, Richard Tracey and John Reeves — reserved their decision after peppering counsel for the RTBU with questions.

The FWC full bench ruling in the Aurizon case found

that enterprise agreement must be terminated if preconditions set by s226 had been met and it was not contrary to the public interest to terminate them.

"In our view, there is no statutory imperative that the promotion and delivery of productivity benefits at an enterprise level is primarily or exclusively to be achieved through enterprise bargaining in good faith rather than by other means," it said.

"True it is that bargaining, where it occurs, must occur consistently with the good faith bargaining requirements. But there is no imperative that an agreement must result in productivity improvements.”

Outside the court, Aurizon said it was giving effect to the decision and order of the full bench in terminating the 12 existing expired EAs in Queensland.

It said the terms of employment for about 3,500 Aurizon employees would then be governed by the less favourable Rail Industry Award 2010, the National Employment Standards and individual contracts of employment.

"Aurizon has undertaken to maintain a number of the current terms and conditions for a period of six months, such as base wages, superannuation, and leave accruals," it said.

"There will, however, be immediate changes for affected employees, including the ‘no forced redundancy’ clause ceasing to operate and the loss of some allowances."

Aurizon previously advised it would suspend acting on the termination until the Federal Court heard the application by the RTBU.

The company defended its offer of annual 4% wage increase over three years in return for the introduction of a "range of work practices and productivity measures already widely accepted in Australian industry.”

Aurizon managing director Lance Hockridge said the termination of these old agreements meant a "range of legacy conditions that are a hangover from government ownership and restrict Aurizon from making changes in a competitive market, will disappear.”

“We are pleased with progress in our negotiations with unions since the Commission’s decision in April. That decision has certainly been a catalyst for renewed focus around the bargaining table on the outstanding issues.”

“Our ultimate goal has not changed since we started negotiations in April 2013. Aurizon is seeking a negotiated outcome on new enterprise agreements that are contemporary and forward-looking, and match those already agreed by unions with our direct competitors.


Industrial Notes

Mortdale route knowledge trainingThe long-running dispute over the training of drivers at Mortdale has finally been resolved.The Loco Division has been calling for additional training to be provided to Mortdale drivers following the new infrastructure changes associated with the upgrade at Glenfield station.The dispute has now been resolved, with Sydney Trains agreeing in the Fair Work Commission to provide the necessary training.Starting in May, Mortdale drivers will be provided with the opportunity to traverse the required routes in accordance with TWP 108 and receive a briefing on the associated signalling and infrastructure changes followed by an assessment on the knowledge gained.Once completed, Mortdale drivers will once again be fully qualified for all aspects of this area in accordance with the provisions of the current EA.If any issues or questions arise regarding this training members should contact their local delegate or the RTBU office.The RTBU would like to take this opportunity to thank all who participated for their determination and patience in successfully achieving this good outcome.

Pacific National Told to Defend Itself The RTBU has had an important win in the Fair Work Commission that will curb the use of top-tier law firms by employers in routine workplace disputes.The RTBU surprised Asciano’s lawyers in an unfair dismissal case by opposing their use of an external legal team.The Commissioner sided with the RTBU. Asciano appealed to the full bench of the Commission, but their appeal was thrown out.National Secretary Bob Nanva said employers are routinely using trained lawyers to perform work that could and should be done by Human Resources staff.“This has created a legal arms race, where everyone has to ‘lawyer up’ in order to maintain fairness in Commission proceedings.“The Commission has now sent a clear message to major employers that they must hire staff qualifed to handle simple matters, and can no longer rely on big law firms to run all of their disputes, including unfair dismissals.”“We believe there will always be a place for lawyers to assist in complex matters, and to ensure parties in Commission proceedings are given all due advice and assistance - but FWC proceedings should not become a lawyers’ picnic.”

STA Grow Perform Succeed ProgramSTA have advised the Union of their intention to commence the ‘State Transit Grow Perform Succeed Program’ (GPS) with Bus Operators. As a result you will be asked to sign an individual “Performance Agreement.”The RTBU advises all members NOT to sign any documentation relating to the GPS program or any other document that resembles an individual performance agreement. Members should note:• STA Bus Operators are covered by a “Collective Agreement”• Nobody can force you to sign your name• Always take union representation into meetings with supervisors or management.


Shorts are back – Big win on Sydney Trains uniforms

Probation Extension Dispute

After a long battle, Sydney Trains has finally agreed to change its uniforms for train crew. Shorts are now back, polo shirts are coming and the business shirts will now be made from a more appropriate material.Workers have been complaining about the new Sydney Trains uniform since it was first introduced, saying that it wasn’t appropriate for the working conditions.The union conducted a survey of members which revealed significant numbers of workers have

also been experiencing severe itchy and discomfort as a result of the material the uniform is made from.The union has been constantly feeding back information to management about the need to rectify the inappropriate uniforms – a move which finally paid off when management agreed to change its policy.The initial change will be the issuing of a polo style shirt to all employees (which was originally requested) which will be issued in July/August. The business shirts are to be replaced with a more open

weave design (similar to the previous blue issue) which will largely negate the heat and sweat-related issues of the current design. Material has been sourced for this shirt and should be available to trial in August which, if successful, will result in a rollout later this year.For those who choose to do so, the current issue trousers can now be altered into knee length shorts with crew to be reimbursed the reasonable cost of the alteration. The shorts are to be worn with black ankle socks.

Further discussions with management will continue while these changes are occurring with members kept informed as to the progress of the rollout.Members wishing to order the new polo shirts or submit trousers alteration expenses should contact their relevant shift manager.The RTBU would like to take this opportunity to thank all the members who supported the recent survey and actively supported this successful and required change.

A class of Petersham College trainee drivers got a rude shock recently when they were handed letters saying that their six month probation period had been extended to 12 months, with no justification. The class received a letter saying as much just two days before their six month probation period was due to finish and were reportedly told to sign it or “their position within the traineeship would be reviewed.”The members immediately contacted the union, and a dispute was lodged.

All trainees sign a letter of offer when commencing employment that clearly states that their probation period is for six months only; however, if any employment issues arise this may be extended.Incredibly, at the same time as receiving the letter of extension they were provided with their probation reports which clearly indicated that they were meeting all expectations of their employment and there were no performance or conduct related issues, therefore no justification

whatsoever to extend their probation period existed.The end result is that all the trainees will now revert to their originally agreed six month probation period (as per the EA 2014) and will receive letters of confirmation stating the same.Many thanks to the class members for their prompt action in informing the union office in order to protect their member rights.


Still no Information on Bus Routes During Construction

Shift manager training dispute

When construction of the South East Light Rail Link ramps up in September or October this year there will be major changes to bus routes especially affecting George Street.Transport for NSW was in the media announcing that it has set up a new stand alone office to deliver the project. But they have not yet explained how buses which currently travel up and down George street will be re-routed.

Concerns around shift managers being trained to detect train faults and failures have now been put to bed, with the dispute being resolved.It was recently brought to the union's attention that there were plans to have Sydney Trains shift managers “up-skilled” in train faults and failures. This prompted obvious concerns given these are non-operational staff and the plans hadn’t been run past the union.The RTBU disputed the move and following the escalation of this dispute, a meeting was held with senior management of Sydney Trains where evidence was produced that clearly indicated the intention to implement this training in a certain area.

Management denied its intention to change the non-operational capability of shift managers, saying that its original intention was to provide a more enhanced knowledge of the drivers duties in order to better facilitate the shift managers overall understanding of the drivers roles and responsibilities. It further explained the evidence provided as being a misunderstanding and a communications failure.Having said this, management committed to providing correspondence to the RTBU which outlines the full details of its intended proposal which will be followed with further consultation if required.

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General News

A Busy Month for Delegates and Reliefs

Union Dues 2015 / 2016

April was a busy month for RTBU Tram and Bus Division delegates and deputy delegates.

Delegates from all depots got together for a two-day executive meeting covering all the important issues and around twenty relief delegates joined together for a full day of training. Here’s what participants had to say:

“I found the training session extremely helpful and I found out much information that was either unknown or unclear to me. The opportunity to question guest speakers and seek the opinions of the other attendees was invaluable. I feel much better equipped to perform my role as a relief delegate.”

“A fantastic and informative work day! I learnt so much about our union today and I have so much new information for my own benefit and that I can take back to my members at the depot. Thanks for the great day!”

Members are reminded that Union Dues will increase by 3% after July 1, 2015 (based on average wage increases gained in the previous year). This is the first increase in union dues in over two years, as any increase in 2014 was deferred due to ongoing negotiations in the passenger area for new EAs with Sydney Trains and NSW Trains.

While we always attempt to keep union dues to a minimum, and RTBU rates compare very favourably with most other unions, they are essential for the core activities and operation of the union. All expenses

such as legal costs in defending members in a range of tribunals, organisers and staff servicing members across the state, the administration of the union office, and services to members such as publications, training and the holiday park, continue to increase.

If you have not already done so, we urge all members to pay their union dues by direct debit, rather than rely on employer payroll deductions. If you have any enquiries about the union due increase or how to change your payments to direct debit, please contact the union office on (02) 9264 2511.

Bus Express is constantly updated with new information from around the depots – including workplace disputes, industry updates and news about RTBU Members.

Members who subscribe to the web site get a fortnightly email with links to all the latest scoops. Printed newsletters will also be distributed around depots.

www.busexpress.com.au

Get on the BUS ExPRESS!


Asciano Urges Bigger Role in Bargaining for Fair Work Commission

New Unions Campaign Plan to Protect Workers’ Rights and Living Standards

ASX top 100 company Asciano, which estimates that its subsidiary Patrick's last bruising bargaining round cost it $21 million, is calling for a greater role for the Fair Work Commission in "agreement facilitation".In its submission to the Productivity Commission's IR inquiry, the company, which also owns rail freight business Pacific National, has included a case study detailing the marathon 20-month negotiation with the MUA for a replacement enterprise agreement for its container terminals .Those negotiations concluded in 2012, after protected and unprotected industrial action and "many hours spent by Fair Work Australia. . . by way of assisting the parties with conciliation", Asciano said.It said the negotiations cost it $21 million directly not including "costs suffered by customers of Asciano's container terminal business or downstream supply

chain participants."While recognising that the "efficiency and quality" of enterprise agreement negotiations lay largely in the hands of negotiating parties, aspects of the bargaining framework set out in the Fair Work Act "hampered efficient and equitable negotiations", it said.It said "there could be more done to facilitate negotiation processes in respect of enterprise negotiations in order to meet the objects of the FW Act. In this regard, Asciano would support a shift from a large focus on a dispute resolution towards agreement facilitation".Asciano asked that a greater and "more proactive" role be considered for the Fair Work Commission or another Fair Work institution that would give it the power to require parties to engage in conciliation.It also suggested the Commission take on a "negotiation advisory role".This could include training on

processes and skills, developing pro-forma negotiation plans and resources, providing a list of recommended facilitators and publishing case studies of successful negotiations, Asciano said.As for protected industrial action, this should only be considered a "last resort" tool.Asciano urged adoption "without delay" of legislation currently before parliament requiring parties to take steps to genuinely try to reach an agreement and preventing protected action ballots if unions or employees have pursued "manifestly excessive" or productivity-hampering claims.Asciano also called for a levelling of the playing field between individual contracts and collective agreements by removing objects of the Fair Work Act that afford "primacy" to collective bargaining.Of Asciano's 8,500 employees, more than 75% are covered by federal agreements. The 2012 Patrick agreement nominally expires at the end of June.

Australian Unions have concluded the ACTU Congress 2015 held over three days at the end of May, invigorated by a new Union Charter and campaign plan to protect workers’ rights and living standards.Over the three days of the Congress around a thousand union delegates from around the country debated and voted on the policies that will shape the union movement’s agenda for the next three years.This includes campaigning for domestic violence leave, stopping the exploitation of foreign and local workers, extending the government’s paid parental leave scheme to 26 weeks at the minimum wage plus super, strengthening protections around unfair dismissal and establishing a national portable entitlements scheme.ACTU President Ged Kearney said that “Unions came out of this Congress with a plan to campaign for working

people and the community to protect our living standards and rights at work.“The support for a $13 million plan to transform the ACTU into a permanent campaigning organisation will allow unions to campaign online, on the ground, politically and in the workplace.The ACTU has already begun rolling out resources in around 30 marginal seats around the country to coordinate campaigns to protect penalty rates, rights at work and the living standards of working people. ACTU Secretary Dave Oliver described the outcome by stating that “The ACTU Congress has reinforced the union movement’s position as the largest, most democratic and dynamic social movement in the nation, working on behalf of almost two million members and millions more working Australians."

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#noexcuse4dv – Candlelight Vigil to Remember Victims of Domestic Violence

John Robertson, Labor MP facilitated the vigil at Blacktown’s Village Green with the purpose of putting the issue of domestic violence at the top of the public agenda. One of the ways that this can be achieved is to organise members of the community into coordinated action through various ways. The call to action started off with the hashtag under the heading of #noexcuse4dv and signing petitions where the information will be used to garner further support for future actions and to update signatories.

The background for the candlelight vigil was the death of Linda Locke due to domestic violence assault. This received very little attention from the media. In addition to this incident four days earlier a man was charged after an 18 year old woman died in Brewarrina, NSW.

To the date of the vigil 34 women have been murdered as a result of domestic violence. Mr. Robertson is quoted as saying:

“When two women a week die as a result of domestic assaults, it really is a national crisis and something needs to be done.”

The vigil was well attended with more than 100 community members, domestic violence workers, council staff, police and various dignitaries.

The current State Government is decreasing funding and closing women’s shelters all over the state under the program of 'Going Home Staying Home' program. This program has consolidated 336 individual services into 149 packages operated by 69 non-government organisations. The impact of this was felt immediately, especially in the regional areas.

The Bega Women’s Resource Centre was inundated with domestic violence victims who had nowhere to go. Manager, Gabrielle Powell is quoted as saying:

“I did try a couple of times to refer women to Mission, but they’d closed the refuge for renovations. Some women left the area; some were sleeping in cars, or in tent.”

In the above example, the nearest refuge, in Cooma, had been closed, and the next refuge was 90 minutes away.

Mr. Robertson said the gesture of the candlelight vigil was not simply about remembrance but taking action. Mr. Robertson is quoted as saying:

“We need to be pushing for specialist domestic violence courts and reinstating funding for women’s – only refuges to protect victims of (Domestic Violence)”.

RTBU members recently attended the Western Sydney Community Candlelight vigil at Blacktown to pay homage to victims of domestic violence.


RTBU Celebrates May DayRTBU members joined thousands of other unionists and community groups in May Day events in Sydney and regional centres, to both protest attacks on working families as well as celebrate achievements of the union movement.

Budget Fail – No Jobs, No Growth, No Opportunity

“Tony Abbott is taking more out of the pockets of working people and their families than he is putting in.

“Australian families will be worse off under this budget with cuts to paid parental leave and family tax benefits that are far greater than the government’s investment in childcare”.

ACTU President, Ged Kearney

The government has made the $5.5 billion Jobs and Small Business Package the centrepiece of the federal budget – yet $5 billion of that package is a tax cut for small businesses that will save the average small business no more than $20,000 a year – not enough to hire new staff.

Ironically, despite selling this budget as a budget for jobs, the Government

is still forecasting unemployment to stay above 6 per cent for the next three years.

The Abbott Government has also forecast economic growth to increase to 3.25 per cent by 2016-17 but there are no initiatives in the budget to increase productivity, with no new money for research and innovation – only cuts.

The ACTU states that instead of helping Australians find long-term jobs, the Abbott Government is continuing to punish unemployed people with a “reinvigorated” Work For The Dole program – a program that has been shown not to create long term, sustainable jobs.

With unemployment at or above six per cent for the past eleven months, the Abbott Government should have used this budget to

invest in infrastructure, skills and training, and the public service to create jobs and boost the economy.

Instead the government has tied childcare assistance to unfair cuts to family benefits and paid parental leave, cut almost one billion dollars from health and missed the opportunity to boost budget revenue by reforming super tax concessions for the wealthy.

There is no new money for major road infrastructure projects and the new $5 billion Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility is reliant on state government and private industry investment.

The ACTU has called this budget a missed opportunity from a government more concerned about keeping its own jobs than creating new jobs for Australians.

In a media release following the recent Federal Budget, the ACTU has said that if the Abbott Government’s plan to create jobs is a $5 billion dollar company tax cut – then it has no plans for jobs.

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UNIONMY UNION FOUGhT FOr MYPaid Annual Leave* ... And Won!* in 1935 the first unions won 1 week annual leave for their members, this was increased to 2 weeks in 1948, and in 1974 four weeks paid annual leave was legislated.

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PAID ANNUAL LEAVE


Charlie Tarshishi is leaning against the pole, Laarnie Dizon in the front

Granville Signal Box Celebrates Harmony DayThe Railways has always had a history of multicuturalism. As a benefit of this culture there has always been an enthusiastic welcome of the various customs that come with working in a multicutural environment.

Harmony Day is held every year to coincide with the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. The message of Harmony Day is everyone belongs. It is a day to celebrate Australia’s diversity and a day of cultural respect for everyone who calls Australia home.

On the 16th March Granville Signal Box celebrated Harmony Day by hosting a Harmony Day Lunch. Laarnie Dizon and Charlie Tarhishi did an amazing job coordinating the luncheon from the canapy through to the seating and the myriad of different foods that celebrated the many cultures that work in the railways. There has to be a special mention of the cake made by Ali Safadi’s wife which added to the festivities and was absolutely decadent.

The RTBU were honoured to be invited to the event which captured the true spirit behind harmony day. It is humbling to have amazing members that have put together such an incredible event.


School Children Left Behind

Burwood members clean war memorial after 30+ years

In some parts of Newcastle the shortage of buses in the area has meant that children are being left behind after school because the buses scheduled to pick them up are too full.Previously a full sized bus came to pick up the children, now a smaller and older bus is used which takes up to 17 fewer students than the previous buses did.This is leading to school children being left behind or forced to find another mode of transport, causing major disruptions for families and teachers.This is potentially a safety risk and needs to be immediately addressed by providing more bus services in these areas.A shortage of buses has been an issue in the Newcastle area for some time, but the problem appears to be getting worse.The RTBU has raised these concerns with management and we’ll be watching this closely

It took three RTBU members three days to get it perfect, but Burwood’s Bus Depot War Memorial has now had its first proper clean in more than 30 years, just in time for Anzac Day.

RTBU delegate for Burwood Depot Mark Delohery, bus operator Sandra Carroll and Institute Secretary Robert Boudan gave up their own time and worked in some pretty stormy conditions to clean the war memorial site. Robert cut back the overgrown hedges, Mark gave the footpath and the sandstone memorial a good clean with his pressure cleaner and Sandra brightened the area with flowers.

The memorial was sparkling clean and looking great for the Burwood Depot’s Anzac Day Ceremony, where the flag was lowered to half mast and Staff Supervisor Andrew Bryson read the speech of a digger who died at Gallipoli.

Burwood members clean war memorial after 30+ years It took three RTBU members three days to get it perfect, but Burwood’s war memorial has now had its first proper clean in more than 30 years, just in time for Anzac Day. RTBU delegate for Burwood depot Mark Delohery, bus operator Sandra Carroll and Institute Secretary Robert Boudan gave up their own time and worked in some pretty stormy conditions to clean the war memorial site. Robert cut back the overgrown hedges, Mark gave the footpath and the sandstone memorial a good clean with his pressure cleaner and Sandra brightened the area with flowers.

Women in Male Dominated Occupations and IndustriesOn the 4 - 6 of May, five RTBU women Joanne McCallum, Narelle Sinclair, Julie Puttock, Leanne Holmes (all from NSW), and Kath Larkin (Flinders Street Station Victoria) attended the Women in Male Dominated Occupations and Industries (WIMDOI) conference held at UnionsNSW.WIMDOI’s vision is “Women to be active Unionists and equal participants in male dominated occupations and industries and to enjoy the deserved wages and conditions achieved through collective action”.The conference had over 30 guest speakers including Ged Kearney, Emma Maiden, Kara Keys and Ludo McFerran.

Sexism, discrimination and harassment in the workplace were common themes. As was domestic violence (DV).The importance of domestic violence being made into a workplace health and safety issue was raised, as well as having DV leave as a stand alone leave option in our Awards. The conference was told that there are now 555 DV agreements across Australia (mostly in the private sector).

Recommendations flowing from the WIMDOI conference include:• recommend to the ACTU to standardise employees of

Unions Paid Parental Leave (PPL) clauses.• develop more WIMDOI meetings such as state and

regional• encourage/develop women’s leadership in the

workplace an in the Unions.• that WIMDOI encourages all Unions to invest in the

training of Union employees around DV and in the workplace

• that WIMDOI encourages attendees to propose further skills development sessions for future conferences

RTBU Express Website

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The Union Movement as Force for Progressive ChangeIn an address to the National Press Club on 6 May, ACTU Secretary Dave Oliver outlined some of the major achievements of the union movement in recent times, and addressed the current issues that continue to make a strong union movement essential in 2015. In his ‘The State of the Unions’ address, Mr Oliver reminded us that “Overwhelmingly, unions have been a force for good in this country”, and that unions have ‘a vital and ongoing role in building our economy and society, and our concerns about the direction the country is heading, particularly growing inequality". The following article is a selective extract from the ‘State of the unions’ address.He added that “most Australians believe that this country is better off with strong unions and that the type of Australia we have today, one that was built on the fair go and equality is largely due to the work of the labour movement”.Unions, organising in workplaces, campaigning in the community, and participating in the political process helped to build the social compact that underpins the minimum wage, job security, the welfare system, public health and education, and a range of public services.These foundations of a civilised and productive society have never been in more peril than they are today. Living standards in Australia face the greatest threat in a generation, with weak wage growth, longer unpaid commuting times, the rise of insecure work and persistently high unemployment.Workers are missing out on their share of the productivity pie with the wages share of national income at close to record lows.Profits are up. Executive salaries are up. But wages are down.I have no doubt that the decline

of living standards has been accelerated by the policies of the Abbott Government.The Abbott Government has shown a callous disregard for Australian jobs through its lack of a co-ordinated industry policy, which has not only seen the impending closure of our auto and components industries, but has put in jeopardy our shipbuilding and Defence contracting industries.It is an indictment that in 2015 – as we saw in a recent Four Corners program – migrant workers who have come from all over the world expecting to come to the lucky country expecting a fair go find themselves ruthlessly exploited by unscrupulous employers and labour hire firms.That is why we have campaigned against this type of exploitation for many years and currently have secured a senate inquiry into temporary work visas. It is not just the budget putting the living standards of workers and their families under great pressure.Through the Productivity Commission inquiry into the workplace relations system, the government has created a vehicle for big employers to push for cuts to penalty rates, cuts to wages, wider use of individual contracts, and making it easier to sack people – all in the guise of “flexibility”.This inquiry has given a platform to employers and business to attack the fundamentals of the industrial relations system that has for the most part successfully balanced the needs of workers and employers for a century.For example, the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry wants to get rid of the Award system entirely in favour of a stripped back safety net with restrictions on enterprise bargaining.

Clubs Australia wants to reduce penalty rates and make signing an individual agreement a condition of employment, and the Institute of Public Affairs wants to abolish the minimum wage entirely.Needless to say, employer groups are almost unanimous in wanting to weaken unfair dismissal laws.If these business radicals get their way and abolish penalty rates it would be the biggest own goal in living history. Workers are consumers. Cutting their wages would suck billions of dollars out of the economy that would otherwise be spent in restaurants, cafes and shops around the country.The Productivity Commission reviewing industrial relations and the role of unfair dismissal laws is undermining the foundations of fairness that workers count on every day in their working lives.It is news to no-one that many employers also want to restrict the role of unions in representing workers.Unions have been instrumental in fighting back against these attacks on our rights and living standards. One of the reasons why Australia has avoided going down the same path of inequality as many other developed economies has been because we still have a strong union movement.As a recent paper by none other than the International Monetary Fund explained, inequality has risen at the same time as union density has fallen in developed countries.The research shows that without strong unions, workers have less bargaining power to increase wages or re-distribute income relative to the owners of capital and top earners.Conservative columnist Nicholas Kristof, writing earlier this year in the New York Times, is another


who has come around to recognise that strong unions are essential to a stable and sustainable society, where the benefits of economic growth are dispersed fairly.After writing many articles over the years that disdained unions, Kristof has admitted: he “was wrong”.He went on to cite the role of unions in pushing for a higher national minimum wage and universal childcare, as well as holding big companies accountable and striving against inequality.In Australia, an active and popular union movement continues to be the main obstacle to the Coalition’s agenda to strip away workers’ rights and reduce their pay and conditions.So I’ve got news for those who would seek to demean or tear down the union movement: we’re still here and we’re not going anywhere.The union movement is at its best

when campaigning as one for change around issues that resonate with working people, and there was no better example than the Your Rights at Work campaign.A movement that is able to mobilise 100,000 people at short notice, as we did in the national day of action on March 4, where people took part in rallies in 17 cities and regional centres on a weekday – That’s how strong the anger is at the Coalition Government and its policies. But none of this should shield us from the challenges the union movement faces.So much has changed in the last 30 years, and the pace of change only seems to increase exponentially. All organisations are facing challenges about how they adapt to this new environment, and unions are no different.Over the past two decades in Australia, we have witnessed the

rise of insecure work, particularly casualisation and labour hire, to the point where it now makes up about 40% of the workforce. We face a profound challenge as to how we organise and represent workers in the coming decades.It is also an environment where unions will continue to have a significant role in ensuring that working people are rewarded for delivering economic and productivity growth, so that our society is not hollowed out with the very wealthy at one end and an underclass of working poor at the other.The last time Australian workers were confronted by a hostile government with no vision for the future the union movement came together, we pooled our resources and we made a difference … we will do it again.

ACTU Calls for Increase to Minimum WageYears of moderate increases to the minimum wage mean low incomes earners are all but shut out of the housing market.The ACTU lodged a submission to the FWC on March 27 calling for a wage increase for Australia’s lowest paid including cleaners, retail and hospitality staff, child care workers, farm labourers, and some factory workers.The annual income of a full-time minimum wage worker is $33 418 while the average price of a dwelling in the capital cities is $677 550. This means paying 80 per cent of the mortgage on an average-priced house would take up a staggering 81 per cent of a minimum wage worker’s gross income.However, a minimum wage worker could only borrow around $150 000 according to the Commonwealth Bank which is a quarter of the average dwelling price.Over the past ten years the Australian housing market had ballooned, with average house prices

increasing by 67.5 per cent between 2004 and 2014 but minimum wages only rose by 37.1 – or 4.8 per cent in inflation-adjusted terms.Buying a house and escaping the rental trap is the biggest affordability dilemma for most workers but for minimum wage earners it’s a pipedream.Key facts:• 1.86 million Australians (18.8%

of the workforce) are paid the national minimum wage or an award minimum wage

• The ACTU is seeking a $27 per week increase to the minimum wage from $640.90 per week to $667.90 (from $16.87 to $17.58 per hour)

• The $27 per week increase also applies to award minimum wages up to the C10 tradesperson rate and a 3.6% increase for award rates above the C10 rate (these are classifications for workers on award minimum wages)

• The Abbott Government’s decision to delay the 0.5 super

increase until 2021 means a 20-year-old minimum wage worker will be $18,401 worse off in retirement

Speaking in support of the minimum wage increase, ACTU Secretary Dave Oliver explained that“The raising of the minimum wage is about people’s lives. This year we call on the Fair Work Commission to carefully consider the impact on low income earners when they are all but exiled from the housing market,” Mr Oliver said.“Many minimum wage earners have been working all their lives caring for older Australians in aged or community care, they work farms, they clean schools and hospitals or look after young children in childcare”.

STOP PRESS At the time of going to press the FWC has announced an increase to the minimum wage of $16 per week, midway between the ACTU claim of $27, and the Employers

claim of $6 per week


Paid Parental Leave "Double Dipping" to Stop from July 1The federal government is planning to end what it claims is "double-dipping" when 20,000 working parents each year receive their full paid parental leave entitlements from both their employer and the public purse, but leading IR academics say the two payments are intended to be complementary.

Social Services Minister Scott Morrison claimed that "around 20,000-odd parents have been taking the full amount from their employers and then turning up for the full amount from the taxpayer and you've got a slightly higher number than that who have been claiming a partial payment."

"The total figure is about 47% of those claiming paid parental leave currently have either been overclaiming or completely double dipping."

The government will be putting an end to the practice from July 1 "because it's not fair", he said in an interview on the ABC's News Breakfast television program.

Finance Minister Matthias Cormann told the ABC's AM program that many private and public sector paid parental leave schemes paid "full

replacement" wages "much more generous than what is on the table from the public sector".

"What we're saying is that if you are accessing a more generous paid parental leave scheme elsewhere, we don't believe it's fair that you also access the taxpayer funded scheme on top of that."

Treasurer Joe Hockey also told Channel 9's Weekend Today program that "people can claim parental leave payments from both the government and their employers so they are effectively double dipping. We’re going to stop that. You can’t double dip, you can’t get both parental leave pay from your employer and from taxpayers.”

He also claimed that federal public servants are also double dipping and that too would be halted. He said the change would save $1 billion over four years.

The government made the announcement just three months after Prime Minister Tony Abbott dropped his signature six months paid parental leave scheme .

However, leading IR academics say the government's notion of "double dipping" is misconceived.

Sydney University Professor of Employment Relations Marian Baird stated that: "It is not double dipping, it's double crossing."

"The Government went to the electorate with a generous paid maternity leave scheme".

She says it has now dropped that commitment "and furthermore", has "taken away what women have".

She says what the government is describing as double dipping is not, "because it is not taking twice from government funds".

It also doesn't constitute double dipping "because the employer pay and government subsidy are used consecutively, not together".

She says "the original scheme was designed to enable mothers to take up to 26 weeks by combining the employer provision with the government funded scheme."

Baird's colleague Associate Professor Rae Cooper said yesterday on Twitter: "Not 'double dipping', Paid Parental Leave scheme was designed for national minimum to be topped up by employers".

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RTBU Members can also take advantage of the United Services Union’s Aquatic Resort at Port MacquarieThe RTBU and USU have a reciprocal arrangement where members of each union can book holidays at the two locations, at member discounted rates.

The USU owns the Aquatic holiday resort, in a glorious location on the Hastings River at Port Macquarie on the north coast of New South Wales. The resort consists of a Motel and a Caravan Park.

Stay in comfort at the holiday resort and enjoy great discounts and great style while relaxing in what many say is the best climate in Australia.

No matter what type of holiday you are after your needs are covered. Lots to do any time of the year! There are a lot of attractions in the area for you and your family – have a great game of Putt-Putt golf or try Jet boating, Parra Sailing, Waterslides, Wave Bowling & Lawn Bowls which are all within walking distance. And don’t forget the fi shing!Please note – there are no tent sites at the Port Macquarie Caravan Park.

You can contact the motel or caravan park by calling the Comfort Inn Aquatic Motel on 02 6583 7388 or the Aquatic Palms Caravan Park on 02 6584 9155 or check the website at www.aquaticinport.com.au

You can also call the United Services Union’s Head Offi ce on 02 9265 8211 for more information.

Members must provide proof of identity plus their RTBU membership card at the time of arrival at Jervis Bay or Port Macquarie or full rates will apply. United Services Union

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RTBU Holiday Park at Jervis Bay

Located in the Booderee National Park, the RTBU Holiday Park at Jervis Bay, is just a 3 hour drive south from Sydney, but a world away…Each of the 14 self-contained units sleep up to a maximum of 6 people and rates are based on a family of 2 adults and 4 children. Other rates are available, however all units only have the capacity to sleep 6 people.Units have a double bed, two single beds and a set of double bunks. You will need to bring your own sheets as only mattress protectors, quilts and pillows are supplied.The units contain a digital television, an oven, microwave, fridge, crockery, cutlery, glassware, pots and pans as well as basic cooking utensils. Make sure you come prepared as the closest grocery shop is in Vincentia, a 30 minute drive away.The RTBU Holiday Park facilities available to all guests include a Boat Ramp, Undercover Bar-B-Q area with seating, Tennis Court and a Coin Operated Laundry.There are various swimming spots to enjoy and natural areas to explore, suitable for all the family.Kangaroos, possums, wallabies, kookaburras, bandicoots, echidnas and rosellas visit the grounds of the Holiday Park daily. Enjoy fishing for whiting, flathead and bream from the calm shores or take a quick walk to experience beach fishing for tailor and salmon on the pristine Bherwerre Beach.The boat ramp allows direct access via the Sussex Inlet Channel to St Georges Basin or outside into the famous fishing grounds of Jervis Bay.Bookings can be made by telephoning the RTBU Office on (02) 9264 2511.

Booderee National Park & Bherwerre BeachIn the Dhurga language, Booderee means “Bay of Plenty” and the area is the home to the people of Wreck Bay.The Booderee National Park has the only Aboriginal owned Botanic Garden in Australia. The gardens are well known for providing a centre for interpreting plants used by the local aboriginal people.The Park is also home to 200 species of birds, over 30 different native mammals including 10 species of bats, 37 reptiles, 17 amphibians and at least 180 species of fish.The White-Bellied Sea Eagle is a special bird at Booderee as it is the guardian of the Koori people of Wreck Bay and features on the Booderee National Park logo. This spectacular eagle has a white head, rump and underparts, dark or slate grey back and wings. It has an awe-inspiring wingspan of up to 2.2 metres. Within the Booderee National Park you will find beautiful white sandy beaches at Green Patch, Murrays, Steamers, Caves and Bherwerre.Bherwerre is home to some of the Boderee National Parks rarer seabirds. Pods of Bottle-nose dolphins are often spotted playing in the waves at the Sussex Inlet Entrance and Humpback whales have been known to enter the protected areas close to shore.


On the Campaign Trail

Moving Forward on Women’s CampaignsTwenty women from across all RTBU divisions met recently for the biannual Women’s Campaigns Committee (WCC) meeting.Women are vastly under represented in the transport industry with figures showing that only around 8 per cent of STA employees, 16 per cent of Sydney Trains employees and 24 per cent of NSW Trains employees are female.There are many real and perceived barriers in the industry which prevent the recruitment, retention and progression of women across our transport network.The WCC discussed these issues and have agreed on concrete ways to move forward and improve conditions for women, such as by campaigning to ensure that domestic violence clauses are included in all agreements and comparing different employers’ policies on issues which impact women, such as their professional development, flexibility of shifts, and access to a maternity uniform.

It is unacceptable that so many of us go to work fearing for our safety, especially on a Friday or a Saturday night. As all bus operators know only too well, when you’re driving a bus you’ve got no security guard and nowhere to go if a member of the public behaves in a threatening manner. The 3/4 security screens on the new buses are a good safety measure because they provide a barrier between the driver and a potentially violent passenger. But these screens are currently only fitted on about 30 per cent of the fleet.When the majority of bus drivers are reporting being assaulted at work it’s clear that we urgently need every bus to be retrofitted with a safety screen.The Tram & Bus Division has taken this issue to the media and STA has responded, promising to talk to the union about expanding the process of rolling out the safety screens.This is a great outcome and the union will progress talks with STA on this matter immediately.

Union is Calling for Security Screens on All BusesOur recent member survey has shown that 53 per cent of bus drivers have reported being assaulted by a member of the public while at work.


“When there is no orange vest it’s like playing a game of Where’s Wally?” RTBU Member Sydney Trains commenced a trial of removing the safety vests from the Customer Service Attendants (CSAs) conducting Right of Way (ROW) duties. The basis for the change in safe working is due to the orange vest impacting Sydney Trains branding, this being the new grey uniform. The stations where the trial were run are Central, Strathfield, Town Hall, Wynyard, Parramatta, Sydenham and Chatswood. The RTBU responded quickly and put out a survey to the CSAs and Guards who are impacted by this change for their feedback. The survey contained five questions and a comments section. There was a strong return of the survey in which the member’s main

message was Sydney Trains have put safety at a low standard for the sake of making a fashion statement. The secondary concern was customers being unable to identify CSAs when they require assistance. Sydney Trains reacted by extending the trial. The RTBU responded by distributing a second survey. The return from the members was over 250 surveys returned, of which 98% of those who participated in the survey disagreeing with removal of the safety vest from the CSA’s whilst conducting ROW duties. Many viewed this as an attack on safe working and customer service. The majority of the concerns were around how the safety vests were going to impact safety. The point that was constantly raised was guards being unable to identify the CSA’s conducting ROW duties especially during peak period due

to the uniform blending in with the surroundings. The CSA’s also pointed out that guards were having difficulty in finding them during peak hour and customers can’t find them for assistance.The other concern raised was regarding customers with a disability not being able to locate station staff when requiring assistance. This was seen by the members as a form of discrimination as it impacts the safety and quality of customer service for members of the public that have a disability. The RTBU have been given a mandate by the membership that the removal of the safety vest due to Sydney Trains positioning themselves as the fashion police is not acceptable. The RTBU will be fighting this ridiculous proposal.

RTBU Challenge Sydney Trains Decision to Trial No Safety Vest in the Name of Fashion

Safety Matters


As Newcastle and the Hunter area battled cyclonic conditions recently, strong union leadership kept our members off unsafe roads.The storm brought some of the wildest weather in years to the city of Newcastle and surrounds. There were winds of up to 130km an hour, trees were down, as were power lines, houses were destroyed, people went missing, and there was flooding and general devastation in the community. The storm was described as a category 2 cyclone and later declared a natural disaster area.As those drivers who were able to made their way to work that Tuesday morning they weren’t sure about the extent of the danger they would face on the roads.As the winds grew stronger, so too did the fear amongst the workers, who gathered together at work, ready for duty, but concerned for their safety. In response union meetings were called at both Hamilton and Belmont depots to decipher which course of action would be taken.No one wanted to risk their lives and those of the travelling public out in the wild and dangerous conditions and with strong leadership from the union members wholeheartedly voted for the safest option: for the buses to remain off the roads until the conditions were proven to be safe.As the day progressed members agreed that certain services could operate safely.The RTBU Newcastle membership were particularly united on that day and the strength and support they showed each other was quite remarkable. It was because of this unity that they managed to get through the day and night without too many concerns.

A Hunter Valley bus during the storm

An STA bus during the storm

RTBU Members Unite to Stay Off Unsafe Roads in Wild Weather


The basis for initiating this action is due to the RTBU and AMWU elected Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) choice in training provider being denied by Sydney Trains which is contrary to the stipulations set down in the Work, Health and Safety Act. The RTBU and AMWU elected HSRs had chosen as their training provider Heath Occupational Safety Training Australia (HOSTA). HOSTA administers the delivery of the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) HSR training. Sydney Trains position is that they believe that HSR training is restricted to are those on the Sydney Trains procurement list. In addition, Sydney Trains are also relying on the Public Works and Procurement Act. This is contrary to the information that Sydney Trains published in a question and answer fact sheet published on the 8th September 2014 when encouraging people to run in the WHS elections. In the publication Sydney Trains stated:

“Health and Safety Representatives are entitled to choose and attend a WorkCover endorsed training course.”On the 4th February 2015 during a HSR consultation meeting WHS representatives repeated their choice of training provider this being HOSTA. Unfortunately Sydney Trains remained firm in their position of denying the HSR’s choice of training provider and commenced to organise training for the said HSRs with a training provider of Sydney Trains choice. Due to this action, the RTBU lodged a complaint with WorkCover on the grounds that Sydney Trains were not adhering to the legislative requirements with regards to training. However, WorkCover determined that Sydney Trains were not breaching the legislation. As a consequence of the above, the RTBU and one of the HSRs lodged an application for an Internal Review with WorkCover. On the 31st March 2015 the Internal Review agreed with the original

determination, in that Sydney Trains could dictate who the HSRs training providers are. As such, Unions NSW facilitated the application for an external review with the NSWIRC. On Thursday 24th April 2015, Mr. Aron Neilson from Slater and Gordon appeared in the NSWIRC for directions. However, WorkCover failed to appear due to WorkCover being served the paperwork in the wrong area. His Honour directed the parties to have discussions about directions and gave leave to file documents with the Commission within 14 days. His Honour further requested that Sydney Trains be notified of our application, which was done on the 23rd April 2015. This is a crucial matter to run due to the implications of the WorkCover determination could have on all industries, both public and private sector. The determination made by WorkCover goes against the fundamental essence of HSR rights and the intention of the legislation.

RTBU, AMWU and Unions NSW Takes on WorkCover The RTBU and the AMWU lodged an application under the coordination of Unions NSW before the Industrial Relations Commission of New South Wales (NSWIRC) naming WorkCover as the Respondent.

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Workmates Rally Around Trevor McDeanIn late May approximately 80 workmates turned up to the Taree Railway Bowling Club, for a send-off for Trevor McDean, organised by the local RTBU activists. Trevor has been diagnosed with terminal cancer, and won’t be returning to his duties as a Train Driver at the Aurizon Taree Depot. Trevor has called it quits after 45 years on the job, variously working in the Traffic area from 1969 to 1994 as a Junior Porter, Shunter and Guard, before moving across to Loco as a driver in 1994, with ten years with National Rail, then the past ten years as a driver with Aurizon.

The company also organised a special event at Taree Races on June 5, where approximately 50 workmates from Aurizon, Pacific National and CountryLink attended to say their goodbyes to Trevor.

Trevor has been active in many of the railway events and send-offs over many years, and the local Golf Day was re-named the Garry McDean Memorial Golf Day, in memory of Trevor’s twin brothers who passed away several years ago. We join his workmates and colleagues in wishing Trevor all the very best for his recent 63rd birthday, and the future.

Guards Circulate Message for a Manager MissedThe following message was circulated to Train Guards by Steve Brown, Secretary Central Guards Sub-Division after the passing of David Haynes in April of this year.It is with a very heavy heart I advise you of the passing of Sir David Haynes.Dave was a long serving Railway employee and left the organisation in recently times.He was an Operations Standards Manager at Central for many years and always had the wellbeing of the Crew at heart.He was part of that rare breed that knew and understood the Railway compared to some within the current managerial lineup.His intention was always to turn issues around and keep the process simple.Dave left a huge impression on me as being a person of intelligence and integrity.He had a good sense of humour and the welfare of the Crew was always his primary focus.May You Rest In Peace Dave


ResignationsI hereby notify the Rail, Bus and Tram Union that I am stepping down as a delegate for the operations division

Central coast (NSWTrainsLink). I am retiring from the railway after nineteen years due to health reasons. My

last day of full employment will be this coming Friday 15th May 2015. I am retiring under TOMA (Termination

on medical advise) conditions. I therefore also submit my resignation from the RTBU as member 118654 effective

immediately, and request all deductions from my bank be terminated.

I have enjoyed my time as a delegate and representing the RTBU to our railway members not just on the Central

Coast but NSW as a whole. I would like to thank yourself and Mick Cartwright for your advice and guidance

over the years. To Petroni for her patience when trying to organise reports and meetings, to Maryanne Stuart for

her undying support of all things involving the union. Joanne McCallum for trapping me into becoming a union

delegate in the first place and then there is Graham Fozzard. Graham your dedication to safe-working causes, the

safety of all rail workers regardless of managements lax attitude to safety, your an inspiration to young delegates.

Finally to the RTBU as a whole, a union that supported me when I went through my cancer, the loss of my wife and

then one of my grandchildren, I thank you all.

I wish you the RTBU and all it’s members good fortune and I dearly hope the members on the Central Coast

realise that they have to get involved, they can not sit on their collective backsides and expect the RTBU to solve

everything. They the members have to realise that “THEY ARE THE UNION”.

Regards. Stephen Threlfall

Delegate for NSWTrainsLink Central Coast.

Retired.

Dear Branch Secretary,

I wish to advise of my resignation from the Rail, Tram and Bus Union, reason being I have accepted Voluntary

Redundancy from Pacific National on Friday 13/2/2015, and do not expect to return to heavy industry.

I would like to thank the union for all their help over the years, especially John Curley and the guys from

Wollongong and Port Kembla.

Yours Sincerely,James RussellUnanderra

Dear Mr Claassens,

I am writing to say I am resigning my membership of the RTBU. I left my employer, Government Transport Sydney

Trains, by way of voluntary redundancy on 9 June 2015.

I feel that I have been very lucky to have been a member for 35 years, because in that great length of time I have

sought help from my union on numerous occasions, and have received personal help from Branch Organiser Mick

Cartwright numerous times.

If I may repeat myself, I have been most lucky indeed to have been a member of such a great union.

Yours Sincerely,

Thomas Nicolic


The Committee of Management of the Australian Rail, Tram and Bus Industry Union, New South Wales Branch has resolved to provide a concise financial report to members for the financial year ended 31 December 2014, in accordance with the Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act 2009

The concise financial report has been derived from the full report and cannot be expected to provide as full an understanding of the financial performance, financial position and financial and investing activities of the branch as the full report. A copy of the full report and auditor’s report will be sent to any member who requests them free of charge.

Members are advised of the following provisions:

FAIR WORK (REGISTERED ORGANISATIONS) ACT 2009.

Section 272 Information to be provided to members or Registrar

1. A member of a reporting unit, or a Registrar, may apply to the reporting unit for specified prescribed information in relation to the reporting unit to be made available to the person making the application.

2. The application must be in writing and must specify the period within which, and the manner in which, the information is to be made available. The period must not be less than 14 days after the application is given to the reporting unit.

3. A reporting unit must comply with an application made under subsection (1).

ALEX CLAASSENS

NSW Branch Secretary

NEW SOUTH WALES BRANCHCONCISE FINANCIAL REPORT FOR 2014

The following reports provide a summary of the Concise Financial Reports for the NSW Branch of the Federal Union as well as the State registered union. A full copy of the Concise Financial Reports can be found on the RTBU website : www.rtbu-nsw.asn.au


COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT STATEMENT

On the 29th May 2015 the Committee of Management of the Australian, Rail Tram and Bus Industry Union, New South Wales Branch passed the following resolution in relation to the general purpose financial report (GPFR) of the reporting unit for the financial year ended 31st December, 2014:

(a) the financial statements and notes comply with the Australian Accounting Standards;

(b) the financial statements and notes comply with the reporting guidelines of the General Manager of the Fair Work Commission;

(c) the financial statements and notes give a fair view of the financial performance, financial position and cash flows of the reporting unit for the financial year to which they relate;

(d) there are reasonable grounds to believe that the reporting unit will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable; and

(e) during the financial year to which the GPFR relates and since the end of that year:

(i) meetings of the committee of management were held in accordance with the rules of the organisation including the rules of a branch concerned; and

(ii) the financial affairs of the reporting unit have been managed in accordance with the rules of the organisation including the rules of the branch concerned; and

(iii) the financial records of the reporting unit have been kept and maintained in accordance with the RO Act; and

(iv) the financial records of the reporting unit have been kept, as far as practicable, in a consistent manner to each of the other reporting units of the organisation ; and

(v) information has been furnished to any member of the reporting unit or to the General Manager of the Fair Work Commission, as the case may be, where information sought by the member or the General Manager of the Fair Work Commission was duly made under section 272 of the RO Act: and

(vi) no order for inspection of financial records have been made by the Fair Work Commission under section 273 of the RO Act.

(f) The Branch has not derived any revenue during the year as a result of any recovery of wages activity it may have undertaken on behalf of members.

Signed in accordance with such resolution as passed by the committee of management.

ALEX CLAASSENS

NSW Branch Secretary

Date: 29 MAY 2015



FINANCIAL REPORTS

AUSTRALIAN RAIL, TRAM AND BUS INDUSTRY UNION, NEW SOUTH WALES BRANCH STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

For the Year Ended 31st December 2014


CONCISE FINANCIAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER, 2014 The Committee of Management of the Australian Rail, Tram and Bus Industry Union, New South Wales Branch has resolved to provide a concise financial report to members for the financial year ended 31 December 2014, in accordance with the Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act 2009

The concise financial report has been derived from the full report, which can be found on the RTBU website : www.rtbu‐nsw.asn.au .

FINANCIALREPORTS

AUSTRALIAN RAIL, TRAM AND BUS INDUSTRY UNION, NEW SOUTH WALES BRANCH STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

For the Year Ended 31st December 2014

Restated Note 2014 2013 $ $

INCOME Members Contributions 1 6,990,183 7,240,419 Legal Levy Received 491,085 424,944 Capitation Fees ‐ ‐Interest Received 248,995 188,345 Rent Received 275,573 215,287 Grants and/or Donations 2 ‐ ‐Net Gains on Sale of Assets 14,355 ‐Other Income 88,069 69,135

TOTAL INCOME 8,108,260 8,138,130

EXPENSES Employee Expenses 3A 3,016,467 2,750,194 Capitation Fee paid to National Office 858,781 901,801 Affiliation Fees 3B 194,895 205,755 Administrations Expenses 3C 1,050,534 1,049,845 Grants or Donations 3D 21,613 17,620Depreciation and Amortisation 112,870 129,970 Legal Costs 3E 167,425 261,558 Audit Fees 3F 43,919 53,709Net Losses from Sale of Asset ‐ 5,425 Net Losses from Derecognition of ‐ 2,602,742 Asset Impairment Expenses ‐ 500,180 Other Expenses 3G 1,084,200 1,441,793

TOTAL EXPENSES 6,550,704 9,920,592

PROFIT/(LOSS) FOR THE YEAR 1,557,556 (1,782,462)

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

‐

‐

TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR

1,557,556 (1,782,462)


STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN ACCUMULATED FUNDSAs at 31st December 2014


AUSTRALIAN RAIL, TRAM AND BUS INDUSTRY UNION, NEW SOUTH WALES BRANCH

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN ACCUMULATED FUNDS As at 31st December 2014

Retained

Profits Asset

Revaluation Total

$ $

Balance 01/01/2013 14,614,155 3,378,550 17,992,705Net Effect of a Correction of an Error (2,745,575) (769,480) (3,515,055)

Restated Balance 01/01/2013 11,868,580 2,609,070 14,477,650

Deficit for the year (1,782,462) ‐ (1,782,462) Transfer to/from Asset Revaluation 2,609,070 (2,609,070) ‐

Balance 31/12/2013 12,695,188 ‐ 12,695,188

Addition for the year 1,557,556 ‐ 1,527,556

Balance 31/12/2014 14,252,744 ‐ 14,252,744


STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITIONAs at 31st December 2014



STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION As at 31st December 2014

Notes Restated Restated 2014 2013 2012 $ $ $

CURRENT ASSETS Cash and Cash Equivalents 9,739,591 8,653,557 7,652,229Receivables 7 242,670 265,107 255,183 Other 8 266,684 127,087 152,929

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 10,248,945 9,045,751 8,060,341

NON‐CURRENT ASSETS Financial Assets 1,236 1,236 1,236 Receivable 7 973,978 963,366 955,967 Property 487,500 500,000 3,424,810Investment Property 3,200,000 3,200,000 3,560,429Plant & Equipment 180,196 211,713 223,501 Motor Vehicles 163,454 165,529 140,191

TOTAL NON‐CURRENT ASSETS 5,006,364 5,041,844 8,036,134

TOTAL ASSETS 15,255,309 14,087,595 16,096,475

CURRENT LIABILITIES Accounts Payable 9 340,042 808,093 587,337 Provisions 10 662,523 584,314 1,031,488

TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 1,002,565 1,392,407 1,618,825

TOTAL LIABILITIES 1,002,565 1,392,407 1,618,825

NET ASSETS

14,252,744

12,695,188

14,477,650

ACCUMULATED FUNDS Reserves ‐ ‐ 2,609,070 Accumulated Surplus 14,252,744 12,695,188 11,868,580

ACCUMULATED FUNDS 14,252,744 12,695,188 14,477,650



STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS For the Year Ended 31st December 2014

2014 Restated

2013 $ $

CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Receipt from other reporting entity 23,160 1,376Receipts from Members 7,481,267 7,665,363Payment to other reporting entity (1,291,359) (891,366)Payments to Suppliers and Employees (5,680,203) (5,970,089)Interest Received 248,995 188,345Rent Received 275,573 215,287Receipts - Other 79,263 67,759Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities 1,136,696 1,276,675

CASH FLOW FROM INVESTING ACITIVITIES Payment for Assets (50,662) (275,347) Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities (50,662) (275,347)

Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash Held

1,086,034

1,001,328

Cash at beginning of the Year 8,653,557 7,652,229

Cash at the End of Year 9,739,591 8,653,557

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWSFor the Year Ended 31st December 2014



INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S STATEMENT

To the members of the Australian Rail, Tram and Bus Industry Union, New South Wales Branch.

SCOPE

We have audited the concise financial report of the Australian Rail, Tram and Bus Industry Union, New South Wales Branch for the financial year ended 31 December, 2014 comprising the Committee of Management Statement, Statement of Comprehensive Income, Statement of Financial Position, Statement of Cash Flows and notes to the financial statements. The Committee of Management is responsible for the financial report. We have conducted an independent audit of this financial report in order to express an opinion on it to the members.

Our audit has been conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards to provide reasonable assurance whether the concise financial report is free of material misstatement.

Our procedures in respect of the audit of the concise financial report included testing that the information in the concise financial report is consistent with the full financial report, and examination, on a test basis, of evidence supporting the amounts and other disclosures which were directly derived from the full financial report. These procedures have been undertaken to form an opinion whether, in all material respects, the concise financial report is presented fairly in accordance with Accounting Standards, the Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act 2009.

I am an approved auditor for the purpose of the Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act 2009.

RECOVERY OF WAGE ACTIVITY

The accompanying notes to the financial statements include comment that the Union has not derived any revenue during the year as a result of any recovery of wage activity it may have undertaken on behalf of members. Our Audit Opinion has been formed on the basis that no recovery of wage activity was undertaken.

AUDIT OPINIONS

In our opinion, the Concise Financial Report of the Australian Rail, Tram and Bus Industry Union, New South Wales Branch for the year ended 31st December, 2014 is in accordance with the full audited general purpose financial report available for inspection my members. The Audit opinion, express in that report is as follows:

In our opinion, the general purpose financial report of the Australian Rail, Tram and Bus Industry Union, New South Wales Branch presents fairly in accordance with applicable Accounting Standards and other mandatory professional reporting requirements in Australia as well as the requirements imposed by the Reporting Guidelines or Part 3 of Chapter 8 of Schedule 1B of the Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act 2009.

We are also of the opinion that management’s use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements was appropriate.

Ken MangravitiKen Mangraviti Pty LtdChartered AccountantsRegistered Company AuditorSuite 4D/140 William StreetWoolloomooloo NSW 2011Dated: 29 May, 2015



The Committee of Management of The Australian Rail, Tram and Bus Industry Union, New South Wales has resolved to provide a concise financial report to members for the financial year ended 31 December 2014, in accordance with the NSW Industrial Relations Act 1996.

The concise financial report has been derived from the full report and cannot be expected to provide as full an understanding of the financial performance, financial position and financial and investing activities of the reporting unit as the full report. A copy of the full report and auditor’s report will be sent to any member who requests them free of charge.

Members are advised of the following provisions:

SECTION 517 OF THE INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS ACT 1996

In accordance with Section 517 of the Industrial Relations Act a copy of the Auditor’s Report, Accounts and Statements will be supplied free of charge to members who request same.

Certificates required to be given under the Act’s by the Accounting Officer and Committee of Management have been completed in accordance with the provisions of the Act’s and contain no qualifications.

STATE CONCISE FINANCIAL REPORT FOR 2014

The following report provides a Concise Financial Report for the State registered union. A full copy of the Concise Financial Report can be found on the RTBU website : www.rtbu-nsw.asn.au


CERTIFICATE BY COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT OF A STATE ORGANISATION

[The provisions of section 510(2) of the Industrial Relations Act 1991 and clause 59(1)(b) of the Industrial Relations Regulation 1992 apply as regulations under section 282(3) of the Industrial Relations Act 1996]

We, the undersigned members of the committee of management of

THE AUSTRALIAN RAIL, TRAM AND BUS INDUSTRY UNION, NEW SOUTH WALES

hereby certify in respect of the financial year ended 31 December, 2014 that:

(a) In the opinion of the committee of management the accounts prepared show a true and fair view of the financial affairs of the organization as at the end of the financial year to which they related; and

(b) In the opinion of the committee of management, during the financial year to which the accounts relate, meetings of the committee of management were, in the opinion of the committee, held in accordance with the rules of the organization; and

(c) To the knowledge of an member of the committee, there have not been, during the financial year to which the accounts relate, instances where records of the organization of other documents (not being documents containing information made available to a member of the organization under section 512 (2) of the 1991 Act, as applied by section 282(3) of the Industrial Relations Act 1996, or copies of those records or other documents, or copies of the rules of the organization, have not been furnished or made available, to members of the organization in accordance with the Act, this Regulation or the rules of the organization, as the case maybe; and

(d) In relation to the report prepared in accordance with section 514 of the 1991 Act, as applied by section 282(3) of the Industrial Relations Act 1996, by the auditor of the organization in respect of the financial year immediately preceding the financial year to which the accounts relate [i.e. the second most recently concluded financial year] and in relation to any accounts and statements prepared in accordance with section 510 (1) of the 1991 Act to which that report relates, the organization has complied with section 517 (1) of the 1991 Act and whichever of subsections (5) and (6) of that section of that Act is applicable.

This certificate is in accordance with a resolution passed by the committee of management of the organization in relation to the matters to be stated in the certificate and is signed on behalf of the committee of management by at least 2 members of the committee.




ACCOUNTING OFFICER STATEMENT

[The provisions of section 510 (2) of the Industrial Relations Act 1991 and clause 59(1)(a) of the Industrial Relations Regulation 1992 apply as regulations under section 282(3) of the Industrial Relations Act 1996]

I, Alex Claassens, the accounting officer of THE AUSTRALIAN RAIL, TRAM AND BUS INDUSTRY UNION, NEW SOUTH WALES

hereby certify that to the best of my knowledge and belief that:

there were 14,450 persons that were members of the organization as at the end of the financial year ended 31 December, 2014.

and in my opinion:

(a) the accounts show a true and fair view of the financial affairs of the organisation as at the end of the financial year; and

(b) a record has been kept of all money paid by, or collected from, members of the organisation, and all money so paid or collected has been credited to the bank account or accounts to which the money is to be credited, in accordance with the rules of the organisation; and

(c) before any expenditure was incurred by the organisation, approval of the incurring of the expenditure was obtained in accordance with the rules of the organisation; and

(d) No payment was made out of a fund referred to in clause 57(b)(xiii) or (xv) of the Regulation for a purpose other than the purpose for which the fund was operated;

(e) All loans or other financial benefits granted to persons holding office in the organisation were authorized in accordance with the rules of the organisation; and

(f) The register of members of the organisation was maintained in accordance with the Act.

ALEX CLAASSENS

Secretary

Date: 29 MAY 2015


CONCISE FINANCIAL REPORT STATE UNION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER, 2014 The Committee of Management of The Australian Rail, Tram and Bus Industry Union, New South Wales (That is the State Union) has resolved to provide a concise financial report to members for the financial year ended 31 December 2014, in accordance with the NSW Industrial Relations Act 1996 Theconcisefinancialreporthasbeenderivedfromthefullreport,whichcanbefoundwithtehFinancialReportsforNSWBranchoftheFederalUnionontheRTBUwebsite:www.rtbu‐nsw.asn.auFINANCIALREPORTS


STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME For the Year Ended 31st December 2014

Restated 2014 2013 $ $

INCOME Rent – Caravans 118,415 75,606 Rent – Units 146,991 161,905

TOTAL INCOME 265,406 237,511

EXPENSES Administration Expenses 202,375 196,591 Depreciation and Amortisation 129,132 134,285 Other Expenses 24,312 25,314

TOTAL EXPENSES 355,819 356,190

NET INCOME (90,413) (118,679)

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOMEGain on Revaluation of Land & Building ‐ 247,124 TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR

(90,413) 128,445


STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN ACCUMULATED FUNDS As at 31st December 2014

Retained

Profits Asset

Revaluation Total

$ $

Balance 01/01/2013 ‐ ‐ ‐ Net Effect of a Correction 2,745,575 769,480 3,515,055

Restated Balance 01/01/2013 2,745,575 769,480 3,515,055Addition for the year 128,445 ‐ 128,445 Transfer to/from Asset Revaluation (247,124) 247,124 ‐

Balance 31/12/2013 2,626,896 1,016,604 3,643,500

Deficit for the year (90,413) ‐ (90,413)

Balance 31/12/2014 2,536,483 1,016,604 3,553,087

FINANCIAL REPORTS AUSTRALIAN RAIL, TRAM AND BUS INDUSTRY UNION, NEW SOUTH WALES

STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOMEFor the Year Ended 31st December 2014


STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN ACCUMULATED FUNDSAs at 31st December 2014



STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION As at 31st December 2014

Restated Restated 2014 2013 2012 $ $ $

CURRENT ASSETS Cash and Cash Equivalents 84,360 59,487 30,573Other 16,345 12,603 16,200

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 100,705 72,090 46,773

NON‐CURRENT ASSETS Property 3,500,250 3,590,000 3,432,876Sussex Inlet Property & Equipment 928,511 953,518 992,296

TOTAL NON‐CURRENT ASSETS 4,428,761 4,543,518 4,425,172

TOTAL ASSETS 4,529,466 4,615,608 4,471,945

CURRENT LIABILITIES Payables 2,401 8,742 923

TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 2,401 8,742 923

NON‐CURRENT LIABILITIES Payables 973,978 963,366 955,967

TOTAL NON‐CURRENT LIABILITIES 973,978 963,366 955,967

TOTAL LIABILITIES 976,379 972,108 956,890

NET ASSETS 3,553,087

3,643,500

3,515,055

ACCUMULATED FUNDS Reserves 1,016,604 1,016,604 769,480 Accumulated Surplus 2,536,483 2,626,896 2,745,575

ACCUMULATED FUNDS 3,553,087 3,643,500 3,515,055


STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITIONAs at 31st December 2014



STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS For the Year Ended 31st December 2014

2014 Restated

2013 $ $

CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Rent Received 265,406 237,511 Payments to Suppliers and Employees (226,158) (203,096) Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities 39,248 34,415

CASH FLOW FROM INVESTING ACITIVITIES Payment for Assets (14,375) (5,501) Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities (14,375) (5,501)

Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash Held

24,873

28,914

Cash at beginning of the Year 59,487 30,573

Cash at the End of Year 84,360 59,487


STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWSFor the Year Ended 31st December 2014


INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S STATEMENT

To the members of The Australian Rail, Tram and Bus Industry Union, New South Wales.

SCOPE

We have audited the concise financial report of The Australian Rail, Tram and Bus Industry Union, New South Wales for the financial year ended 31 December, 2014 comprising the Committee of Management Statement, Certificate by Accounting Officer, Statement of Comprehensive Income, Statement of Financial Position, Statement of Cash Flows and notes to the financial statements. The Committee of Management is responsible for the financial report. We have conducted an independent audit of this financial report in order to express an opinion on it to the members.

Our audit has been conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards to provide reasonable assurance whether the concise financial report is free of material misstatement.

Our procedures in respect of the audit of the concise financial report included testing that the information in the concise financial report is consistent with the full financial report, and examination, on a test basis, of evidence supporting the amounts and other disclosures which were directly derived from the full financial report. These procedures have been undertaken to form an opinion whether, in all material respects, the concise financial report is presented fairly in accordance with Accounting Standards and the Industrial Relations Act 1996

I am an approved auditor for the purpose of the Industrial Relations Act 1996

AUDIT OPINIONS

I certify that the Concise Financial Report is a fair and accurate summary of my Report, Accounts and Statements of The Australian Rail, Tram and Bus Industry Union, New South Wales for the year ended 31st December, 2014. My Auditors Report did not contain particulars of any deficiency, failure or shortcomings as referred to in the Industrial Relations Act.

Ken Mangraviti

Ken Mangraviti Pty Ltd

Chartered Accountants

Registered Company Auditor

Dated: 29 May, 2015


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iMPortant Members need to specify the date of their next pay so that when the membership fee debit occurs on a friday there is sufficient money in the account to ensure the transaction is not dishonoured which results in you then being charged an additional fee by your bank.

Details of Bank aCCoUnt to Be DeBiteD

Details of CreDit CarD to Be DeBiteD

I/We authorise and request the Rail Tram and Bus Union, until further notice in writing to arrange for my/our account described in this direct debit authority, to be debited with any amounts which the debit user may properly debit or charge me/us through the direct debit system.

I/We authorise and request this direct debit authority to remain in force until cancelled, deferred or otherwise altered in accordance with this service agreement.

Please email your completed form to [email protected] by using the submit button Post: Level 4, 321 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW 2000 or fax: 02 9261 1342

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I, ___________________________________________________ the undersigned, hereby apply to become a member of the Australian Rail, Tram & Bus Industry Union, an Organisation of employees registered under the Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act 2009 as amended, and hereby undertake to comply with the Rules & By-Laws for the time being of the Union.Signature of Applicant _______________________________________________________ Dated _____________________ I, __________________________________________________ the undersigned, hereby apply to become a member of the Australian Rail, Tram & Bus Union NSW, an Organisation registered under the Industrial Relations Act 1996 (NSW) as amended, and hereby undertake to comply with the Rules and By-Laws for the time being of the Union.Signature of Applicant _______________________________________________________ Dated _____________________

DETAILS OF THE ACCOUNT TO BE DEBITED

Account Name OR Name on Credit Card __________________________________________________________

Financial Institution ______________________________________________ Branch ___________

Date of next pay week __________________________IMPORTANT Members need to specify the date of their next pay so that when the membership fee debit occurs on a Friday there is sufficient money in the account to

ensure the transaction is not dishonoured which results in you then being charged an additional fee by your bank.

Bank/State Branch No. (BSB) Account No./ If Credit Union Membership No. _____________

Card Type MasterCard Visa Expiry Date /

Credit Card Number

Please submit this Form to the RTBU’s Membership Officer by email [email protected] OR Mail to Level 4, 321 Pitt Street Sydney NSW 2000 OR Fax (02) 9261 1342

RTBU MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FORM

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Membership Enquiries Telephone (02) 9264 2511

1. I agree to pay $ __________ via DIRECT DEBIT fortnightly; OR

CREDIT CARD fortnightly or any other amounts as may be determined from time to time in accordance with the Rules of the Union.

I certify that I have received a copy of Rule 14, Notification of Resignation From Membership.2. I/We authorise and request the Rail Tram & Bus Union, until further notice in writing to arrange for my/ our account

described in this direct debit authority, to be debited with any amounts which the debit user may properly debit or charge me/us through the direct debit system.

3. I/We authorise my employer to notify the Rail, Tram & Bus Union of any change of address during my employment.4. I/We authorise and request this direct debit authority to remain in force until cancelled, deferred or otherwise altered in

accordance with this service agreement.Signature of Applicant _____________________________________________________ Dated ____________________

Surname

Street Address

Home Telephone Number

Employer

Occupation: Eg Train Driver

Date Of Birth Email (work)

Email (home)

Work Telephone Number

Employee Number

Work Location/Depot

Mobile Number

Date Commenced

Employment Status

Given Name(s)

Suburb

Gender

Post Code

MaleFemale

Fulltime Part time Casual

PLEASE KEEP THE FOLLOWING FOR YOUR REFERENCE

RESIGNATION FROM MEMBERSHIP

OF THE RTBU1. A member may resign from membership of the

Union by written notice addressed and delivered to the Secretary of his/her Branch.

2. A notice of resignation from membership of the Union takes effect:–

(a) where the member ceases to be eligible to become or remain a member of the Union

(i) on the day on which the notice is received by the Union or

(ii) on the day specified in the notice, which is a day not earlier than the day when the member ceases to be eligible to become a member, whichever is later; or

(b) In any other case:–

(i) at the end of two weeks; or

(ii) on the day specified in the notice: whichever is later.

3. Any subscriptions, fees, fines and levies owing but not paid by a former member of the Union in relation to a period before the member’s resignation took effect, may be sued for and recovered in the name of the Union in a Court of competent jurisdiction, as a debt due to the Union.

4. A notice delivered to the Branch Secretary shall be deemed to have been received by when it was delivered.

5. A notice of resignation that has been received by the Union is not invalid because it was not addressed and delivered the Branch Secretary.

6. Resignation from membership of the Union is valid even if it is not affected in accordance with this Rule, if the member is informed in writing by or on behalf of the Union that the resignation has been accepted.

What happens if I get pregnant, sick for an extended period or take leave without pay?

If you are on unpaid maternity leave, sick or are off work for a substantial period of time you can seek to have your membership fees suspended until you return to work by giving written notice addressed and delivered to the Secretary of his/her Branch under Clause 11 (8):

(8) Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Rule, should any member during any financial year be without pay owing to ill health or to other causes which a Branch Executive regards as warranting special consideration, then the Branch Executive may grant the member exemption from payment of all or any contributions imposed in accordance with the Rules for all or part of the period during which he/she is without pay. During the period of the exemption, the

member shall be deemed to be financial.

The Rail, Tram & Bus Union is bound by the Privacy Act and your information can only used for RTBU processes and cannot be used for any other purposes.

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IMPORTANT

Level 4, 321 Pitt StreetSydney NSW 2000

Tel (02) 9264 2511 Fax (02) 9264 1342

E-mail [email protected] www.rtbu-nsw.asn.au

Call 1300 650 873 or visit firststatesuper.com.au

Consider our product disclosure statement before making a decision about First State Super. Call us or visit our website for a copy. FSS Trustee Corporation ABN 11 118 202 672 ASFL 293340 is the trustee of the First State Superannuation Scheme ABN 53 226 460 365.

At First State Super we believe all Australians deserve a comfortable retirement. To join the super fund that puts members first call us or visit our website today.

A rewarding career deserves a rewarding retirement

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2015 rail and road - june edition

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