Disruptions to council services expected as pay dispute escalates
Shire action
“Significant service disruptions” are expected by one local union at Douglas Shire Council in coming weeks after a pay dispute has escalated across the past fortnight.
Australian Workers’ Union members at the council began taking industrial action last week as part of ongoing negotiations with management about a new pay deal, Northern District secretary Jim Wilson said yesterday.
“AWU members took the step after the council refused to agree to a fair pay rise for council employees,” Mr Wilson said.
“In a move that has escalated the dispute, council has now notified staff that they will lock out any worker who engages in protected industrial action.”
Mr Wilson said the only action AWU members had taken so far was a ban on working overtime.
“Council’s response to this has been to threaten to lock out the council’s workforce.
“This decision could lead to significant service disruption for the local community all over workers not working more than their regular roster.”
Mr Wilson said AWU members working for Douglas Shire had taken a real-wage cut of more than 5 per cent since 2021 after inflation was factored in.
“All they’re asking for is a wage rise that keeps their head above water.
“These are the workers that make sure the community has safe drinking water, flushing toilets, and well maintained roads and parks.
“They’re not asking for the world, just to be able to continue to afford to live in the community they serve.”
A DSC statement released to Newsport stated the council had been formally notified by the Australian Workers’ Union of Employees, Queensland Services Union (AWUEQ) and The Queensland Services, Industrial Union of Employees (QSIUE) that their members intended to undertake protected industrial action as part of ongoing negotiations relating to pay and conditions under the current enterprise bargaining process.
The notification identified a range of potential actions, including work stoppages and work bans, which may be progressed by union members in pursuit of claims for increased wages and other matters, the council stated.
“Council acknowledges and respects the lawful right of employees to engage in protected industrial action,” the DSC stated.
“At the same time, Council is encouraging all staff to remain focused on their commitment to the Douglas Shire community by continuing to perform their full range of duties wherever possible.
“Council also holds legal rights of its own and, where necessary, will exercise those rights to ensure that essential community services are maintained and delivered without disruption.
“Council maintains that its current offer regarding pay and conditions is fair and reasonable, and appropriately balances the interests of employees with those of residents and ratepayers.
“Council remains committed to achieving a financially sustainable enterprise agreement that responsibly manages public resources and supports the long-term wellbeing of the community.”
