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2002 Archive
December 2002 |
Merry holidays!
Compliments of the season and merry holidays to everyone from Paul Slape and the ASU National Office. We hope the holidays bring you rest, joy and renewed vigour for the coming year!
25 December 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU Energy Bulletin - November 2002
Inside this issue: What’s the most expensive electricity? “NO ELECTRICITY” Ask a South Australian Politican; Privatisation not always the way – World Economic Forum – January; ASU - GATS Campaign ; plus more …
24 December 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU Woman Named NSW Organiser of the Year
Jennifer Acklin, a senior organiser with the Airlines Branch in NSW has been named the NSW Labor Council’s Organiser of the Year at a ceremony held in Sydney on Friday 20 December 2002.
23 December 2002 [ full story ]
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Ansett Administrators Win Supreme Court Case
On Friday 20 December 2002 the Supreme Court of Victoria ruled in favour of the Ansett Administrators in the long running case brought by the Trustees of the Ansett Ground Staff Superannuation Fund.
23 December 2002 [ full story ]
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Travelex delegates make recommendation on Appeal
Yesterday ASU members and organisers held a teleconference to decide what the ASU will do following the certification of the Travelex Agreement by the Australian Industrial Relations Commission.
23 December 2002 [ full story ]
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Air NZ Christmas Wrap Up: EBA meetings commencing 6th January 2003
In our last bulletin “There will be no present under your tree from Air NZ this Christmas” we called for staff meetings around the country to decide what to do about the breakdown of the EBA negotiations. Your representatives have advised that over Christmas you are either operationally flat out or on skeleton staff depending on the department that you work in. Because it is extremely important that you have your say in what we do from here we thought it best to commence the meetings the week starting the 6th of January 2003.
23 December 2002 [ full story ]
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Putting GATS transparency on the political agenda
In the last week, the ALP has been vocal on the issue of the international negotiations around the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS), calling for Government transparency in negotiations and committing to a Senate Inquiry on the issue.
20 December 2002 [ full story ]
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There will be no present under your tree from Air New Zealand this Christmas
Your EBA negotiations recommenced today and it is our great regret to inform you that the company has not come to the table with a position that treats your concerns regarding the EBA process seriously. The company’s paid consultant opened the meeting to state that the company acknowledged that they received a letter from 75% of the staff who said that they wanted the negotiations to resume and that was why we were meeting today. The company said that they had given further consideration to the quantum of wages, redundancy and the vagueness of the classification structure.
19 December 2002 [ full story ]
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Review of electricity industry training package
The ASU has been asked to participate in the review of the Training Industry Packages covering electricity industry workers in transmission, distribution and generation electricity industry companies throughout Australia (and New Zealand).
14 December 2002 [ full story ]
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More child care places and greater subsidies for working families
The ASU has once again endorsed the call by Labor’s Nicola Roxon for greater Federal Government funding for the provision of child care services to Australian families.
13 December 2002 [ full story ]
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Ansett Employee Update Number 4
The latest Employee Update from the Ansett Administrators (Update 4) is now available on this website and explains how due to the Supreme Court proceedings the Administrators will unfortunately not be able to disburse further employee entitlements prior to Christmas 2002. The ASU will continue to post information for members as it becomes available.
12 December 2002 [ full story ]
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It’s official– Tech Salaried EBA endorsed
Early this week the ASU held its vote on the Qantas Technical Salaried Enterprise Bargaining Agreement V. The vote was unanimously in favour of the agreement.
12 December 2002 [ full story ]
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Don't worry - be happy...
This was pretty much the theme of Qantas CEO Geoff Dixon’s briefing on 9 December 2002 to Union representatives about the proposed Qantas purchase of 22.5% of the shares of Air NZ which was announced last month and which now faces close scrutiny by regulators on both sides of the Tasman.
11 December 2002 [ full story ]
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Local government at risk from GATS
How can the World Trade Organisation (WTO) affect local government and local government employment in city and regional Australia? That was the question when the ASU National Executive debated the need to be involved in the campaign opposing the WTO’s current negotiations on GATS (General Agreement on Trade in Services).
10 December 2002 [ full story ]
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All ASU members affected by WTO negotiations
The ASU National Conference heard from ASU officials, the ACTU and politicians that World Trade Organisation (WTO) negotiations affect all our members during its meeting in Canberra last week. The Conference heard that there are a range of agreements being pursued by the WTO, with the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) being the immediate concern.
10 December 2002 [ full story ]
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Ansett Employee Update Number 3
The latest Employee Update from the Ansett Administrators (Update 3) is now available on this website and explains what is happening with the Supreme Court proceedings. The ASU will continue to post information for members as it becomes available.
09 December 2002 [ full story ]
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Agreement reached on EBA
After a number of final meetings between the ASU and the company, we have reached agreement on the EBA. A document has now been distributed for employees to consider. There will then be the opportunity to vote on the agreement on the 17th of December. Arrangements will also be made for postal votes for those employees unable to lodge their vote in person on that day. It is important that all members read through the document carefully, and raise any questions with Branch officials or delegates. This document will form the basis of employment conditions at P&O Nedlloyd for the next 2 years, so it is important that any concerns are clarified before the vote.
09 December 2002 [ full story ]
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United EBA goes to vote – at long last
In mid September the ASU wrote to United management stating we were prepared for the document as negotiated to go to the vote.
09 December 2002 [ full story ]
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National Conference addressed by Simon Crean
When Federal Opposition Leader Simon Crean addressed the ASU’s peak body, National Conference, he recognised that the ASU is involved in the strongest growing sector of the workforce. Whilst the workplace is changing, he encouraged the Union to embrace the change while holding on to core labour values.
04 December 2002 [ full story ]
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Sharan Burrow opens ASU National Conference 2002
This morning, Tuesday, December 3, 2002, ACTU President Sharan Burrow opened the biennial ASU National Conference being held in Canberra. Beginning by explaining the significant “dream” coverage of the ASU, she discussed the need to organise for the future.
03 December 2002 [ full story ]
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Ansett Workers Update
Despite an indication by the Judge in the Victorian Supreme Court Case that a decision would be available by mid November 2002, there has still been no decision on the Ground Staff Superannuation Scheme dispute.
02 December 2002 [ full story ]
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Water Industry Training Package review
State ITAB representatives have met to develop arrangements for the Water Industry Training Package throughout Australia.
01 December 2002 [ full story ]
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Campaigning for a better workplace
This is the theme of the biennial ASU National Conference which will meet in Canberra from December 3 to 5, 2002. Approximately 100 delegates representing members from all over Australia will hear speakers, attend workshops, make presentations and generally deliberate to set the direction of the Union for the next two years.
01 December 2002 [ full story ]
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November 2002 |
Make Air New Zealand Secure Employee Entitlements Says Key Union
Following the announcement of a strategic alliance between Qantas and Air New Zealand the Australian Services Union, the largest union in the Airline Industry in Australia today called on the ACCC to ensure that the entitlements of Australian staff working for Air New Zealand are secure before approval is given for this alliance between Air New Zealand and Qantas.
25 November 2002 [ full story ]
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Malaysia Airlines Drop Tradeoffs – It looks like a deal
Your representatives met with Malaysia Airlines in Sydney on Tuesday 19 November 2002 to try and finalise the details of the latest EBA.
25 November 2002 [ full story ]
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How much is a living wage?
On Monday 18 November 2002, the ASU lodged applications with the Australian Industrial Relations Commission for a $24.60 per week wage increase, which we hope to flow through to all our awards. Our applications are only the beginning of several months of work aimed at bringing a fair and decent “living wage” to low paid workers.
19 November 2002 [ full story ]
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Tasmanian Branch Conference
The Tasmanian Branch Conference was held on Saturday the November 9, 2002, in Hobart. The Conference was made up of over 30 rank & file delegates, with local Branch Organisers attending with the Branch Secretary, Sean Kelly. Conference delegates included representatives of the Local Government, Energy, Community Services, Airlines industries and more.
18 November 2002 [ full story ]
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Pre-poll shows you intend to vote No to the poor offer: now Air New Zealand goes on the hard sell
Last Friday Air New Zealand employee representatives received survey results that showed that the majority of staff who are covered by the agreement intend to vote No to the latest company offer.
18 November 2002 [ full story ]
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Want to be inspired?
As you know, many GLAM people attended the opening ceremony of the Gay Games which took place directly after the Workers Out! Conference. Many commented on the inspirational address by Justice Michael Kirby, so we have decided to reproduce it here.
15 November 2002 [ full story ]
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Interim Award for contract call centre workers
The ASU, as part of the ACTU coordinated Call Centre campaign, has secured redundancy benefits, a disputes handling procedure, union access and traineeship entitlements for 5,000 employees of the largest contract call centres. This is as a result of the Australian Industrial Relations Commission approving the making of the Contract Call Centre Industry (Interim) Award 2002.
15 November 2002 [ full story ]
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No Response on the EBA from Malaysia Airlines
In order to get your feedback your representatives have been asking you what you think of the Malaysia Airlines offer, and if you are prepared to support the offer put to management by the Staff Representative Committee.
14 November 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU attends EEQSB electricity industry training conference
The ASU was represented at the EEQSB Annual Conference examining issues of training and the training packages for the electricity generation/transmission/distribution industries and its use within energy companies. The EEQSB is responsible for electricity, electrotechnology and gas industry training packages.
14 November 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU Energy Bulletin - October 2002
Inside this issue: Public sector unions to lead not follow; GATS – Australia and Philippines; Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations; Blair defeated on privatisation; Electrician qualification NUE 505A; Plus more …
14 November 2002 [ full story ]
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EBA closer after productive meeting
After the latest P&O Nedlloyd EBA meeting held on Tuesday we feel we are much closer to arriving at a new EBA agreement. This is thanks to the feedback that we received from ASU members in response to some of the proposals that had previously been put by the company. This meeting saw movement on some key issues in a direction that we believe will benefit both employees and the company if they are finalised.
13 November 2002 [ full story ]
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Air New Zealand - Explaining Industrial Action, we need to decide our next steps
With negotiations reaching a critical stage at Air New Zealand many people have asked us to explain how they can take legal industrial action if this is the only way to get a better deal from Air NZ. The law can be complex so here is what we hope is a simple explanation.
08 November 2002 [ full story ]
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There may be a drought but it’s raining EBAs in Qantas Regionals
Over the past few months there has been significant developments in the negotiations for new Enterprise Bargaining Agreements (EBAs) for the Qantas Regional Airlines – Eastern, Impulse, Sunstate and Southern Airlines.
08 November 2002 [ full story ]
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Malaysia Airlines - Five meetings down
At the last Malaysia Airlines EBA Negotiations meeting the National Negotiating Team went through each of your claims and asked the Company what their position was on each of them. The response - no movement on any of your claims except for a move from 2.5 to 3% base rate increase p.a. This is less than current inflation rates and much less than our claim of 5% p.a.
07 November 2002 [ full story ]
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NSW Premier reflects ASU view on PFIs and PPPs
Many ASU members would have heard discussions of Private Public Partnerships (PPPs) and Private Funding Initiatives (PFIs). These programs, used to fund public projects, have been pursued by the British Labour Government, with disastrous results for the trade union movement and have culminated in the British Labour Party rejecting the use of PPPs or PFIs. Similarly, NSW Premier Bob Carr has announced his Government's great concern and questioned the use of PPPs or PFIs.
07 November 2002 [ full story ]
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Mayne demerger saga ends in trade sale
As ASU members employed by the Mayne Group know, the Company has been proposing for some time to “demerge” the non-health parts of the business and create a new, separate company to be known as Loomis.
06 November 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU wins $18 a week award increase with EBA decrease ahead
Thomas Cook employees will take a cut in their pay rates if a non-union EBA is certified by the Australian Industrial Relations Commission (AIRC). This follows an application to vary the Thomas Cook Award which was approved by the AIRC today. The ASU application was to pass on the $18 a week increase handed down by the Full Bench of the Commission this year, and will apply to all employees currently covered by the Award from 14 November onwards.
06 November 2002 [ full story ]
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Tech Salaried Staff EBAV recommended
After recommencement of negotiations and suitable amendments, the ASU is now in the position to recommend Qantas Enterprise Bargaining Agreement V (EBAV) to members. The EBA still must go through the appropriate voting process and that means you decide.
04 November 2002 [ full story ]
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New South Wales Branch mergers
On October 21-22, 2002, the MEU NSW Branch State Conference was held in regional NSW. Called to debate policy and the rules of the Union, the Conference has resolved to move forward with its merger with another Branch of the ASU, the NSW C&A Branch.
01 November 2002 [ full story ]
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A better than expected profit but no movement on the EBA offer!
We would have thought it was a thorn in Air New Zealand's side that on the same day we were negotiating with Air New Zealand they forecasted a $200 million annual profit for the 2003 year. This followed the company posting a $30.4 million profit up from a $51.8 million loss last year. Who made these profits possible? You did!
01 November 2002 [ full story ]
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October 2002 |
ASU members say “NO” to cuts
The ASU has responded to P&O Nedlloyd's outrageous “draft” EBA with a resounding "NO" on a number of issues. This follows weeks of consultation with members in all States.
31 October 2002 [ full story ]
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International Monetary Fund attacks Australian industrial relations system
The International Monetary Fund (IMF), the world's largest financial institution and the organisation that develops economic packages for governments, in conjunction with the World Bank and other organisations, has released a report attacking the Australian industrial relations system.
31 October 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU says all working families should have access to child care
ASU Assistant National Secretary Greg McLean has called on the Federal Government to keep child care fees down through increased support for the industry and, in particular, for local government that delivers on child care, to ensure all Australian working families have access to quality and affordable child care.
31 October 2002 [ full story ]
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Pay TV appeal disconnected
The ASU’s coverage of workers in Austar and Foxtel call centres has once again been upheld. This is despite the recent appeal by the companies against a decision reached by the Australian Industrial Relations Commission in May. A Full Bench of the AIRC threw out the appeal by the “Pay TV” operators earlier this week.
25 October 2002 [ full story ]
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What was said: A full report of what ASU members said to the AIRC
Here is a summary of the submissions made by Lisa Heap (ASU National Industrial Officer) in the Commission to oppose the certification of the Travelex agreement.
25 October 2002 [ full story ]
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GLAM at Workers Out!
Workers Out! is the second world conference of lesbian and gay trade unionists. Participants are arriving into Sydney from all parts of the international labour community bringing with them their varied experiences. As a major union network for gay, lesbian, transgender, bisexual and intersex workers, GLAM will be out in force with close to 20 participants attending from all over Australia.
24 October 2002 [ full story ]
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What will a federal ALP government offer workers?
As part of our role representing the interests of our members to those with influence over workplace laws, the ASU lobbies politicians at both State and Federal level. Yesterday one of these meetings occurred between National Secretary, Paul Slape, Assistant National Secretary, Greg McLean and Robert McClelland MP, Shadow Attorney-General and Shadow Minister for Workplace Relations. This meeting was facilitated by former ASU official, Brendan O’Connor MP, who is the Federal Member for Burke.
18 October 2002 [ full story ]
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Review of the “Museums and Library/Information Services Industry Training Package”
Members working in libraries, museums and art galleries throughout local government, the private sector or other public sector areas should be aware that the "CREATE" ITAB (Industry Training Advisory Board), has undertaken a review of the current Industry Training Package and that a report is available to members working in the sector.
17 October 2002 [ full story ]
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Union takes on Telstra Board
The Victorian Secretary of the Communications Union (CEPU) Len Cooper will once again be running against the Federal Government's candidates for the board of Telstra. He has the backing of Telstra employee shareholders, and in previous years his votes from the "mum and dad" shareholders and even institutions has been growing steadily. This year should be no exception.
16 October 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU takes lead on youth organising
The ASU took a leading role at the ACTU’s first National Youth Forum held on October 10-11, with participation from rank and file members, delegates and officials from across a range of Branches nationally and from the National Office.
15 October 2002 [ full story ]
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Unions condemn Bali terror
The Internation Confederation of Free Trade Unions (ICFTU) has condemned and described as "barbaric" the terrorist attack in Bali that has killed and maimed hundreds of Australians, Indonesians and others from around the world. The ICFTU has also called for co-operation between nations to track down those responsible.
14 October 2002 [ full story ]
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Water industry workers get recognition
The Australian Services Union, water industry workers and their employers have worked to achieve industry recognition for ASU members working in the water industry.
14 October 2002 [ full story ]
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Electricity industry security
The Australian Services Union has today requested advice from the Federal Government on issues associated with the security of the Australian electricity industry (generation/transmission & distribution), not only in relation to the job security of ASU members employed throughout the electricity industry, but also the security of supply of electricity for Australian citizens.
14 October 2002 [ full story ]
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It’s official - Qantas EBA endorsed
The votes in the ASU’s Qantas EBA VI were counted today and an overwhelming 91.85% of those who cast a valid vote, voted yes to approving the EBA for the 9701 employees in ASU areas in Qantas, Qantas Holidays, QFIT Levels 1-10 and QFCL. This vote follows the approval of the EBA at meetings of ASU members in September 2002.
11 October 2002 [ full story ]
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Devout unionist threatened with the sack for praying
ASU member and IT worker Kamal El-Masri, has been threatened with dismissal by his employer TPG, an Internet company in Sydney, for praying during work hours. His Branch, the NSW & ACT (Services), has been representing him in the Australian Industrial Relations Commission in an attempt to resolve this apparent example of religious discrimination.
11 October 2002 [ full story ]
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National Office working with Branch officials
In a new stage of the ASU’s development, the National Office has developed a program for the training of Branch Officials to assist them in their duties before the Australian Industrial Relations Commission.
10 October 2002 [ full story ]
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How do you “glamchat”?
The ASU National Office is coordinating an online discussion group for our GLAM people called “glamchat”. This forum will allow both officials and members across the country to “talk” to each other. Its terms of reference are "A place to share ideas, experiences and news with other GLAM folk." GLAM is a special network within the ASU to promote and protect the rights of Gay and Lesbian ASU Members, including bi-sexual, transgender, intersex, etc, workers, a diverse group which often experiences discrimination in the workplace.
10 October 2002 [ full story ]
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Did you know that Qantas Directors want you to give them a 36% pay rise?
Yes, that’s right at this year’s Annual General Meeting of Qantas Airways Limited which is to be held on Thursday 17 October 2002 at 2.00pm at the Burswood Convention Centre Perth, Qantas Directors are asking shareholders to vote them an increase in pay from $1.1m per year to $1.5m and increase of 36%.
09 October 2002 [ full story ]
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Latest Employee Update from Ansett Administrators
The latest Employee Update from the Ansett Administrators (Update 2) is now available on this website and deals with the Ready Reckoner for calculating entitlements. The ASU will continue to post information for members as it becomes available.
08 October 2002 [ full story ]
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Job Security the major EBA issue at P&O Nedlloyd
Negotiations have progressed to the stage where the company has presented a draft proposal containing the changes it is seeking to the EBA. The ASU has also presented its claims to the company, as outlined in newsletter 2. Feedback received to date makes it clear that job security is a major issue for employees. It is an issue the company is reluctant to move on. It appears they want to retain the ability to slash yet more jobs.
01 October 2002 [ full story ]
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September 2002 |
Promoting the rights of public sector workers and quality public services
Public Services International (PSI) is the global union for unions in the public sector and represents 20 million public sector workers. PSI World Congress meets every five years and was held this year in Ottawa, Canada. National Secretary Paul Slape and Assistant National Secretary Greg McLean represented the ASU. Meeting for five days from September 2, 1250 participants debated policies and programs to improve the lives of Federal, State, municipal and utilities workers.
30 September 2002 [ full story ]
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Vote YES to EBA VI
On Wednesday 2 October 2002 voting will commence on the ASU Qantas EBA VI. The ASU is recommending a YES vote in this ballot as the agreement has been endorsed by meetings of ASU members.
27 September 2002 [ full story ]
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Negotiations underway for P&O Nedlloyd EBA 2002
Negotiations for a new EBA agreement have commenced with a meeting on 16 Sept between ASU and employee representatives and P&O management. Subsequent meetings to negotiate the EBA have been set for 30 September, 29 October and fortnightly thereafter.
27 September 2002 [ full story ]
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Governments acknowledge ASU submission to Parliamentary Inquiry
Recently the ASU lodged a comprehensive submission in to the Australian Parliament House of Representatives, Standing Committee on Economic Finance and Public Administration, Inquiry into Local Government and Cost Shifting. Since then, both Federal and State ministers have acknowledged the submission and thanked the ASU.
27 September 2002 [ full story ]
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Time to vote on United Airlines EBA
After meetings of employees across United Airlines it has been decided to put the proposed enterprise agreement out to staff for a vote.
27 September 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU Energy Bulletin - September 2002
Inside this issue: 'Compliance and Risk' Conference; Bonded Asbestos; Privatisation can be a death sentence, warns the PSI; French trade unions in the energy sector; Ireland & energy reform - Western Australia; Global update
27 September 2002 [ full story ]
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Public sector unions to lead not follow
Over the last 20 years we have seen the attacks on the public sector by governments throughout the world, as they have implemented competitive tendering, contracting out and privatisation. The long-term quality of public services was ignored in favour of short term cost savings. The Public Services International (PSI) is about changing that with the launch of "Quality Public Services", a worldwide campaign. Earlier campaigns have included Utilities (Water and Electricity), Paid Maternity Leave and Pay Equity, to name a few.
26 September 2002 [ full story ]
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Tell the Government – No more double dipping
The clear message from creditors and former Ansett staff who attended the third meeting of Ansett Creditors on 25 September 2002 was that the Federal Government should stop double dipping by taking both the Ansett $10 ticket tax and claiming back the SEESA money from the sale of Ansett’s assets.
26 September 2002 [ full story ]
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Company advises of claim for QFIT A-Cs
Your Negotiating Team met with the Qantas IT Management team (Jane Thornton, Kate Nuttall, Ryan Willemsen-Bell, and John Short) for the first time last Friday.
25 September 2002 [ full story ]
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Executive pay-outs reward failure at the cost of ordinary workers
Former ASU Assistant National Secretary and now Federal Member of Parliament, Brendan O’Connor, raised during Question Time on September 16 the inequitable fate of former Ansett workers in comparison to their former bosses in the failed airline. Mr O’Connor revealed that $25 million had gone to executives since the Ansett collapse, adding, "Is the Prime Minister also aware that 16,000 Ansett employees are still waiting for some $400 million in entitlements, an average of $25,000 per employee?"
25 September 2002 [ full story ]
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Malaysia Airlines - Where your negotiations are up to
We have now had three meetings with the Company; during which we have had to explain and justify our claim time a number of times. On Tuesday 17 September your Negotiating Team met with the Company for the third time and management finally delivered their claim.
25 September 2002 [ full story ]
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We must defend the rights of Australian citizens
Greg McLean, ASU Assistant National Secretary and a member of the ALP Legal and Constitutional Committee (NSW), has asked ASU members to look closely at the reforms being pursued to Australian government security.
17 September 2002 [ full story ]
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Ansett third creditors report released
Last night the Ansett administrators released their third report to the Ansett creditors ahead of the meeting of creditors scheduled for Wednesday 25 September 2002 in Melbourne at 11.00am at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre.
17 September 2002 [ full story ]
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Qantas members endorse deal
Meetings of Qantas ASU members around Australia have voted to endorse the EBA VI deal recommended by the National Negotiating Team and ASU delegates.
16 September 2002 [ full story ]
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Qantas Delegates meet to consider EBA VI deal
Almost 100 ASU delegates from around Australia met in Sydney on Monday 9 September 2002 to discuss the EBA VI deal recommended by the National Negotiating Team (NNT) which came from talks with Qantas on 30 August 2002 following ASU members industrial action on 2 and 19 August 2002.
10 September 2002 [ full story ]
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Life After Ansett Party
If you are interested in attending the Life After Ansett Party being held in Melbourne on Saturday 14 September 2002, please open the attached invitation.
05 September 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU speaks with Greek community radio
Assistant National Secretary, Greg McLean, was the guest of Dimitri Symeonidis at SYMBAN FM radio to discuss the role of the Australian Services Union in today's society and how unions can respond to the global economy, preserving jobs for Australian workers and their families.
04 September 2002 [ full story ]
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National Negotiating Team to recommend deal to Qantas delegates
After many months of discussion, the ASU National Negotiating Team now believes they have negotiated a deal with Qantas that can be recommended to a national meeting of ASU delegates for consideration.
03 September 2002 [ full story ]
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EBA negotiations to commence at P&O Nedlloyd
Negotiations for a new EBA agreement are due to commence on Sept 16, which is when ASU representatives will meet with management over the issue.
02 September 2002 [ full story ]
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August 2002 |
ASU Welcomes NSW Government Rescue Package
The Australian Services Union welcomes yesterday's (August 28) $100 million dollar State Government rescue package for more than 10,000 non-government community workers.
29 August 2002 [ full story ]
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Fourth meeting of Ansett Creditors announced
The fourth meeting of creditors of the Ansett Group is scheduled to be held at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre, Level 2 Auditorium on Wednesday 25 September 2002.
27 August 2002 [ full story ]
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Travelex agreement to be challenged
On 15 August 2002 the vote of staff for the Travelex EBA was counted. Of those who voted the majority did vote yes to the agreement but there is no doubt the vote was very close.
22 August 2002 [ full story ]
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Doorstop: Qantas profits and the prospects for future industrial action at Qantas
Australian Services Union National Assistant Secretary Linda White will be giving a doorstop interview immediately following the announcement of Qantas’ profits for the financial year 2001 / 2002.
21 August 2002 [ full story ]
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No job security despite massive profits at Qantas
The Australian Services Union has condemned Qantas’ refusal to give job security commitments despite today’s announcement of a massive $631 million pre tax profit for the 2001 / 2002 financial year and the announcement of its $800 million capital raising plans.
21 August 2002 [ full story ]
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Strike action a success
Yesterday ASU members across Australia took strike action for 24 hours and forced the cancellation of around 170 domestic flights and the rescheduling of a further 30 flights and the delay of every domestic, regional and international flight.
20 August 2002 [ full story ]
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A Message to Passengers from Qantas Staff
Qantas staff are sorry that we had to take industrial action today and disrupt some travel plans but Qantas left us with no choice as they have refused to negotiate.
19 August 2002 [ full story ]
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Strike action cuts flight numbers in half
The industrial action by ASU members across Australia today saw around 48% of all Qantas domestic flights cancelled or rescheduled resulting in some delays and disruptions to the traveling public.
19 August 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU Energy Bulletin - July 2002
Inside this issue: Electricity Generation Training Package review; International recognition for ASU electricity industry workers; PSI quality public services campaign call; Energy reform France; plus more...
19 August 2002 [ full story ]
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Qantas taken to Court over Unlawful and Un-Australian tactics in Union dispute
The Australian Services Union (ASU) today issued proceedings in the Federal Court against Qantas Airways over unlawful activities in its current enterprise bargaining dispute. ASU members are taking 24 hour nationwide stoppage on Monday over the dispute.
16 August 2002 [ full story ]
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A Message of Support from ACTU Secretary for Qantas Members
ACTU Secretary Greg Combet today issued the following statement in support of the ASU members at Qantas who are taking industrial action across Australia on Monday 19 August 2002.
16 August 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU Members – United and Strong
ASU members in Qantas across Australia will take further industrial action for 24 hours on Monday 19 August 2002 in support of our claims for job security, a fair wage increase, job share and a classification structure that recognises our skills.
16 August 2002 [ full story ]
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Keeping it public for workers and the community
National Secretary, Paul Slape, was recently invited to the National Conferences of two of the ASU’s sister unions in the United Kingdom, GMB and Unison. He learned that public and local government unions in Britain are conducting a “Keep Public Services Public“ campaign in the face of the Blair Labour Government’s decision to use the private sector to provide public services – a problem we are beginning to face here in Australia.
15 August 2002 [ full story ]
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Qantas to face industrial action over job security
Nearly 6,000 Qantas staff will stage a nationwide strike for 24 hours on Monday 19 August 2002 to support their claim for job security at the airline, according to the Australian Services Union.
15 August 2002 [ full story ]
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It’s just not a fair deal Geoff
Members of the Australian Services Union took unprecedented national industrial action on Friday 2nd August in pursuit of a fair and reasonable EBA. Talks with Qantas recommenced on Thursday 8th August.
14 August 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU acknowledges "Year of the Outback"
Australia's largest local government and utilities union, the ASU, acknowledges the great contribution made by the union members that live and work in the Australian outback and the bush. ASU members work within these communities providing services including electricity, water and gas, as well as services via local government councils.
13 August 2002 [ full story ]
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Don’t forget to vote NO at Travelex
It’s not to late to vote in the Travelex EBA Vote which closes on Thursday 15 August 2002. If you have not already voted do so ASAP so your vote can be counted.
09 August 2002 [ full story ]
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Talks continue with Qantas
The ASU National Negotiating Team met with Qantas on Thursday 8 August 2002 following our successful industrial action across the country on Friday 2 August 2002.
09 August 2002 [ full story ]
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Some home truths about the Travelex agreement
Listed below are some home truths about the Travelex agreement.
08 August 2002 [ full story ]
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Meeting Date with Qantas Changed
The ASU and Qantas have agreed to change the date of EBA VI meeting scheduled for Wednesday 7 August 2002. The meeting will now be held on Thursday 8 August 2002.
06 August 2002 [ full story ]
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Western Sahara campaign gains ground
Kamal Fadel, the Australian representative of the Polisario, has exclusivly advised the ASU of the current position of the Western Sahara and the views of the United Nations during a meeting with the Assistant National Secretary, Greg McLean.
05 August 2002 [ full story ]
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United we bargain
On Friday 2 August 2002 ASU members across Australia took unprecedented industrial action in support of our claims against Qantas for our EBA VI.
05 August 2002 [ full story ]
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A Message to Passengers from Qantas Staff
Qantas staff are sorry that we had to take industrial action today and disrupt some travel plans but Qantas left us with no choice as they have refused to talk to our National Negotiating Team since Monday.
01 August 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU gives local government workers a voice in Federal Inquiry
The ASU has lodged a submission in to the Australian Parliament House of Representatives, Standing Committee on Economic Finance and Public Administration, Inquiry into Local Government and Cost Shifting.
01 August 2002 [ full story ]
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Qantas Industrial Action – Media Door Stop Thursday 1 August 2002 at 12.00noon outside Qantas, 50 Franklin Street, Melbourne
Australian Services Union (ASU) Assistant National Secretary Linda White will hold a media door stop today outside Qantas’ Melbourne Offices at 50 Franklin Street, Melbourne at 12.00noon.
01 August 2002 [ full story ]
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July 2002 |
SAE is it really off the table?
Qantas have notified staff today that they are withdrawing the Suitable Alternative Employment (SAE) proposals and the Unit Cost Clause from their claims but we have to ask are they really? And what are Qantas trying to achieve?
31 July 2002 [ full story ]
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The only way is to vote NO at Travelex
Voting begins on 1st August 2002 for the Travelex Collective Agreement and ceases on 15 August 2002.
30 July 2002 [ full story ]
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Recognising and measuring electricity workers' spark
The ASU has been participating in both national and international forums to ensure the recognition and measurement of electricity workers' skills and the design of appropriate training.
30 July 2002 [ full story ]
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Industrial Action Plan for Qantas 2nd August 2002
ASU members across Australia have planned Protected Industrial Action at Qantas on Friday 2nd August 2002.
30 July 2002 [ full story ]
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Talks with Qantas Break Down – Now It’s Action
Last minute talks with Qantas were held today (29 July 2002) following the resounding endorsement by members across the country calling on Qantas for movement on our EBA claims.
29 July 2002 [ full story ]
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Federal Government threatens local government with more cuts
The ASU has been alerted by a media release from Labor’s Gavin O'Connor that the Federal Government is reviewing its funding options for local government in Queensland. The ASU's Assistant National Secretary and National Local Government convener, Greg McLean, has expressed deep concern at this type of intervention.
29 July 2002 [ full story ]
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Is Eastern serious about our claims?
The ASU Negotiating Team has now had 3 meetings with Eastern Australia Airlines. Here is a summary of the position so far as at the last meeting on 24 July 2002:
29 July 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU pushes pay equity for childcare workers
The ASU Victorian Branch covering childcare workers, the MEU/PSV Branch, has released a series of high quality posters, and stickers, designed to highlight the issues faced by childcare workers and the disparity in their wages compared to other local government para and professional workers.
25 July 2002 [ full story ]
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Utility prices and regulation in Australia
Assistant National Secretary, Greg McLean, has congratulated the NSW Independent Pricing Advisory Regulation Tribunal on its 10th Anniversary and the removal from the NSW Government of the ability for them to make unilateral decisions on electricity, water, transport and other State Government Services by price fixing of retail and network charges.
25 July 2002 [ full story ]
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Life's a picnic, but only if you're a member
In a move welcomed by National Secretary Paul Slape, the ASU-MEU NSW Branch has instigated moves to restrict the annual Picnic Day paid holiday to union members only.
24 July 2002 [ full story ]
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Commision’s Decision on Reasonable Hours Gives Clerical Workers New Rights Against Unreasonable Employers
Paul Slape, National Secretary of the Australian Services Union (ASU) said that today’s Australian Industrial Relations Commission decision gave Australia’s clerical workers the chance to reign in growing demands from employers to work unreasonable working hours.
23 July 2002 [ full story ]
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Time to decide is it good enough?
At our meeting on 18 and 19 July 2002 Qantas said they were putting their final position on our claims. This is a summary of their position on our claims:
22 July 2002 [ full story ]
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Qantas’ Transmission of Business Clause – What would it mean?
At the eighth EBA VI negotiation meeting Qantas surprised the ASU team by adding a claim to their wish list very late in the piece. The claim relates to transmission of business and suitable alternative employment (SAE), and has implications for your redundancy entitlements.
22 July 2002 [ full story ]
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Qantas is not acting on Impulse
The ASU Negotiating Team has now met with Impulse / Qantas management on six occasions and we are still no closer to reaching an agreement.
22 July 2002 [ full story ]
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Sunstate Enterprise Bargaining Round 2
Your enterprise bargaining representatives met today, Wednesday 17 July to continue the negotiations for your enterprise agreement.
22 July 2002 [ full story ]
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Staff Reject the Company’s Final Offer
The ASU has co-ordinated a series of meetings over the past few weeks to take a vote of staff on the Company’s offer for a proposed Agreement. This process took longer than expected due to difficulties experienced in reaching sufficient numbers of staff in some locations to adequately gauge their views.
18 July 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU welcomes ACTU's maternity leave campaign
ASU National Secretary Paul Slape today said that the ASU fully supports the ACTU campaign for paid maternity leave for working women.
17 July 2002 [ full story ]
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UK local government workers hit the grass
Local government workers in Britain have voted to take strike action today (17 July). The workers belong to Unison, the biggest union in the UK and, according to their General Secretary Dave Prentis, the intention of the strike is to "show the national employers and local employers in no uncertain terms that enough is enough of poverty wages, the lack of respect and dignity shown to all groups of staff and the gender pay gap."
17 July 2002 [ full story ]
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New MBF Award
The Australian Industrial Relations Commission (AIRC) recently approved the making of a new national award for MBF staff. Employees classified as Grades A to G now have a minimum safety net to underpin future certified agreements.
15 July 2002 [ full story ]
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John Travolta : come fly with us!
The Australian Services Union will today offer Qantas’ newest recruit, Hollywood actor John Travolta, honorary membership and invite him to join the campaign for better wages and conditions currently underway at the airline.
12 July 2002 [ full story ]
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Latest Travelex EBA Update
By now you would have received two newsletters from Travelex Human Resources regarding the EBA negotiations.
11 July 2002 [ full story ]
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8 meetings down and now a new claim
At our EBA VI meeting with Qantas on 4 July 2002 Qantas tabled a new clause they want included in the EBA which deals with transmission of business, suitable alternative employment and the payment of redundancy. We also discussed job share, access and allocation of leave and the Sales Executive Offer.
08 July 2002 [ full story ]
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All we want is certainty
At our meeting on Wednesday 3 June 2002 Simon Lane and John Gallagher advised the Change Action Team and representatives of the Australian Services Union that (Travelex EB) negotiations would cease until further notice.
05 July 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU Energy Bulletin - June 2002
Inside this issue: Electricity Generation Competencies; European Energy Commission; TXU & unions; Websites - energy pricing – UK; What's happening in Jakarta; Free trade - does it have a price?; World bank loans on our doorstep; plus more...
03 July 2002 [ full story ]
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Time to get serious about your wage rise!
On 27 June 2002 the National Negotiating Team again met with Qantas and discussed a range of issues including Job Share, Childcare, OHS, Bargaining Fees, Sales Executives Allowances, QFIT, Access to Leave and Superannuation.
01 July 2002 [ full story ]
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June 2002 |
Contracts, Core Hours and Travelex EBA
Last Thursday 21 June 2002 we again met with Travelex about the EBA. Travelex tabled more information on their Learning Proposals but also listed what they really want from the Agreement including the change to Core Hours.
27 June 2002 [ full story ]
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United Airlines - Final Offer
On 20 June 2002 the UNCLE Team met United Airlines management (including Stephen Pearse) to negotiate on the Company’s offer to staff in our EBA.
25 June 2002 [ full story ]
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Complete the ACTU National Survey of Workplace Issues 2002
The ASU is encouraging all members and potential members to participate in this important survey so that the results analysed by the ACTU through its independent research organisation are representative of the facts and views out there in workplaces.
25 June 2002 [ full story ]
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Recognising the contributions of childcare workers
In the latest edition of a NSW child care industry journal "Rattler" ASU Assistant National Secretary, Greg McLean has called for, "All council general managers to spend a day in a child care centre working with staff to see the issues faced by child care centre workers, and the contribution they make to society."
24 June 2002 [ full story ]
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Expect a visit from your manager soon
The 1st July 2002 is looming. So over the next few weeks your manager may be sent to brief you about the Company’s view on our enterprise bargaining agreement (EBA) negotiations.
24 June 2002 [ full story ]
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GLAM goes camping in Queensland
GLAM will participate in this year's Pride March, which commences at 10.00am in King George Square this Saturday (22 June).
19 June 2002 [ full story ]
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Plenty of talk – not much action
After six meeting with Qantas and with the ASU’s EBA V Agreement about to expire on 30 June 2002 it is time to assess where we are at with negotiations for EBA VI.
19 June 2002 [ full story ]
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Leap forward in call centres
The ASU has made another significant move forward in our attempts to improve the wages and conditions of workers in the call centre industry. On May 30, the AIRC recognised the ASU’s right to represent the industrial interests of call centre workers at Foxtel and Austar, after the ASU had served a log of claims on the companies.
18 June 2002 [ full story ]
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Southern Airlines – ASU Members in Dispute
ASU Members employed by Southern Airlines have been advised by Qantas that most of their jobs will be made redundant later this year.
17 June 2002 [ full story ]
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Travelex – It only gets worse
A further meeting was held with Travelex on Thursday 13 June 2002 and Travelex tabled most of the rest of their Enterprise Bargaining Agreement wish list, this included:
17 June 2002 [ full story ]
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Qantas regional flights threatened as Southern Airlines staff take action
Members of the Australian Services Union employed at Southern Australia Airlines are set to take industrial action next week after talks with parent company Qantas broke down today.
17 June 2002 [ full story ]
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AAE EBA Approved
Today the Australian Industrial Relations Commission approved the two AaE EBA’s for On Airport and Off Airport workers.
17 June 2002 [ full story ]
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Bushfires: workers show their strength
Earlier this year the NSW Government, Premier Bob Carr and the Heads of over 30 Government Agencies stood on the steps of the Sydney Town Hall and thanked NSW Firefighters, volunteer and full-time, for their efforts in saving NSW citizens and their houses and property. When you looked across the mass of people there was one thing missing - the contractors - there were no electricity industry companies contractors, there were no multi-nationals present, there were only Australian workers wearing the yellow fire suits and their blue uniforms of the electricity industry.
17 June 2002 [ full story ]
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Victory comes with perseverance
The ASU EBA Negotiating Team has met with Qantas on 4 and 12 June 2002. Talks continue at a snails pace, but we should revel in our first small win – it’s a lesson in perseverance.
14 June 2002 [ full story ]
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Perseverance delivers our first win!
As you will remember, last year over 2000 Qantas staff signed a petition supporting our claim that QFIT 1 – 10s should be included in the main round negotiations with the rest of Qantas.
14 June 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU Energy Bulletin - May 2002
Inside this issue: Market concentration in European power - The Greens; ASU negotiates international agreement with Vivendi; 15 million strike against privatisation; Indonesia; ASU water & local government - Queensland Services and NSW MEU Branches; plus more…
13 June 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU responds to Western Australian energy reform
The ASU Western Australian Branch has responded to the Government's planned reform of the electricity sector with submissions to the Government inquiry and information seminars for delegates.
12 June 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU negotiates international agreement with Vivendi
The company known to most Australians as Universal Film Studios, Vivendi Water, Collex or Connex, is involved in negotiations with the ASU for a worldwide agreement on workers' rights.
07 June 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU puts its claim to the Company
On June 5, 2002, the Change Action Team met with Simon Lane and Linda Asbridge (Travelex). The following were put forward by the Company.
07 June 2002 [ full story ]
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Update for Thomas Cook Branches
There have been a number of issues raised over the last few weeks that relate specifically to the working conditions of staff in Thomas Cook, HSBC and Harvey World Travel Branches.
06 June 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU supports women and children in Western Sahara refugee camps
At a reception held at the New South Wales Parliament attended by diplomats, consular generals, politicians and trade union officials, ASU Assistant National Secretary Greg McLean, spoke in support of the work being undertaken by the Western Sahara Freedom movement and their representative in Australia , in the pursuit of the United Nations call for free and democratic elections.
06 June 2002 [ full story ]
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Understanding the Travelex Grading Structure in Branches
One of the major changes proposed at Workplace Agreement Negotiations is the “streamlining” of gradings. The takeover of Thomas Cook has meant that there are two grading systems in place - Travelex and Thomas Cook. The Company feels it would be more efficient if there was a universal grading system.
06 June 2002 [ full story ]
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The Company finally gives the ASU its Claim for QFIT
After the 4th meeting between the ASU National Negotiating Team (NNT) and Qantas Management, the ASU office has now received the company’s claim for QFIT 1-10s.
06 June 2002 [ full story ]
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Vanstone dismisses call to pay SACS shortfall
Federal Family & Community Services Minister Senator Amanda Vanstone has again dismissed our call for her government to pay what it owes our social and community workers.
05 June 2002 [ full story ]
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ITABs under attack from Federal Government
The Howard/Anderson 2002 Budget had a sting in the tail for members of the ASU wanting to improve their skills to create a better work environment, advance themselves and to improve the competitiveness of their Industry for the Australian economy, when the Federal Government moved to stop funding State Industry Training Advisory Boards (ITABs).
05 June 2002 [ full story ]
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May 2002 |
Pay rises for members as the ASU varies awards
The Australian Industrial Relations Commission handed down its decision in the latest round of the Safety Net Review of Wages on May 9, 2002, making an extra $18 per week available to workers covered by federal awards. The ASU was involved in the case to determine the level of increase and is now going through and varying relevant awards so this increase gets to members.
31 May 2002 [ full story ]
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My Entitlements – How Much and When?
This is the question on all former Ansett employees’ minds. The ASU – representing our members who continue to be the priority creditors - asked this key question at the May Meeting of Creditors of the former Ansett companies.
31 May 2002 [ full story ]
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Triton Temps – Telephone Sales Update
After a number of weeks of discussions, your ASU delegates have been able to finalise the negotiations with Qantas about the engagement of temps for the Triton training.
30 May 2002 [ full story ]
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Plenty of change, Plenty of action, No negotiation
On 23rd and 28th May 2002 the “Change Action Team” (CAT) met with John Gallagher (Travelex) and Simon Lane (Human Resource Consultant) to discuss the Company proposed changes to your working conditions.
30 May 2002 [ full story ]
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Local government delegates' forum held on Qld-NSW border
The ASU Branches of the MEU NSW and Queensland Services have held a joint delegates' forum on the NSW and Queensland State border to examine local government workers' issues in that region.
30 May 2002 [ full story ]
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It’s money for nothing, but nothing’s for free
At the EBA meeting with Qantas on 28 May 2002, General Manager IR Steve Schofield told the ASU National Negotiating Team that all Qantas wanted to do was give us “3% per year for 3 years for nothing” – if only that was true.
29 May 2002 [ full story ]
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EBA Talks Set to Begin Again at United
On Thursday, 23 May 2002, UNCLE received a letter from Stephen Pearse responding to our request for a meeting of the entire JCC committee (including the member of the team who was asked to step down) and all senior management staff – Stephen Pearse included.
28 May 2002 [ full story ]
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United responds to our call to meet
Late yesterday afternoon the ASU received a reply from Stephen Pearse to UNCLE’s 18 May 2002 correspondence to the Company requesting a JCC meeting. In this correspondence we also advised the Company of our intent to file a “Notice of Initiation of Bargaining Period” and of our request for Stephen Pearse to attend the next round of negotiation meetings.
22 May 2002 [ full story ]
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AaE EBA Approved – Now for the Money
After considering both the On and Off Airport Enterprise Agreements at AAE, ASU covered staff have voted in favour of the agreements. While the vote was not unanimous the margin was significant and satisfies the requirements of the Workplace Relations Act that provide that a majority of employees affected by the agreements must vote in favour of the agreements so they can be approved.
22 May 2002 [ full story ]
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Ever had a problem with the grading of your position?
One of the major claims we have put forward for the current round of Qantas EBA negotiations is finalising, once and for all, the Classification Structure. For many staff hearing about finalising this structure, that has been outstanding for a very long time, is deja vue. Why should we start all over again?
21 May 2002 [ full story ]
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Staff call for a better proposal, Company yet to respond
Your UNCLE representatives, together with ASU officials, invited all United staff around the country to meetings last week to put the Company’s proposed collective agreement to you. Across all of these meetings we got a good turnout of staff.
17 May 2002 [ full story ]
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Where are the negotiations?
On 15 May 2002 ASU representatives and the “Change Action Team” (“CAT”) met with John Gallagher (Human Resources, Travelex) and Simon Lane (Human Resources Consultant) to discuss the Company proposed changes to staff wages and working conditions.
16 May 2002 [ full story ]
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The Answer is No, No, No and No
Qantas responded to the ASU’s EBA VI claim detailed to the Company in the first negotiation meeting, at the second negotiation meeting on Tuesday 14 May 2002.
15 May 2002 [ full story ]
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Temp talks at telesales break down
The Qantas Telephone Sales Triton Temps Negotiating Team met with Qantas on 7 and 10 May 2002 to talk about how the Triton training would be covered by staff – but unfortunately talks have broken down.
10 May 2002 [ full story ]
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Qantas Regionals Roundup
With the current review of the Qantas Regional businesses – Qantas Link – there has been a lot happening in the regional airlines of Southern, Eastern, Sunstate and Impulse/Air Connex so the ASU is starting a new Qantas Regionals Bulletin to keep our members up to date on the issues and activities in each Airline.
10 May 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU Energy Bulletin - April 2002
Inside this issue; New Zealand Remotes; PSI websites –have you visited them; Are you using PSI Research Centre – PSIRU; EVATT - Foundation – Australia; PSI & Pension Funds; World Bank Programs – what’s being promoted; plus more web sites to visit
10 May 2002 [ full story ]
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A Free and Fair Election
This week Travelex Australasia have started a ballot process for the staff Change Management Team representatives.
09 May 2002 [ full story ]
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Members set to escalate Canon dispute
ASU Services Branch members will meet this afternoon to consider an escalation of industrial action against Canon Australia in their current EBA dispute. The move follows strike action across Australia today by technicians of the company in protest at what ASU Queensland Services Branch Secretary David Smith describes as Canon’s ‘miserable approach to their highly skilled employees’.
08 May 2002 [ full story ]
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Let the games begin…..
Yesterday (7 May 2002) your ASU National Negotiating Team met with Qantas for the first time and tabled the full detailed proposals for the majority of our claims.
08 May 2002 [ full story ]
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Strong, United and Ready to Go
Today the ASU will formally deliver our claim to Qantas and start our bargaining for EBA VI. This follows the endorsement of the claim by meetings of ASU members across Qantas in every State and Territory in Australia.
03 May 2002 [ full story ]
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April 2002 |
ASU energy representatives meeting with Aurora Energy
After recently completing a successful Enterprise Bargaining Agreement with Tasmania's largest energy company, the ASU is now negotiating new work agreements aimed at providing further improvements for members.
29 April 2002 [ full story ]
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It’s Time to Consider AaE Deal
After further talks with AaE, your ASU delegates now believe we have negotiated the best deal possible for the On and Off Airport EBAs.
23 April 2002 [ full story ]
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Triton Temps Talks Begin in Telesales/QBT
ASU Telephone Sales delegates Barry Hoger (Brisbane), Chris Lytas (Melbourne), Marie Pappicio (Hobart), Andrew Austin (QBT Melbourne) and Linda White (Assistant National Secretary) met with Qantas Management on 22 April 2002 about the proposal to introduce 40 temporary employees in North Sydney for 6 – 8 months, Monday to Friday on daywork while Telephone Sales staff learn the new Amadeus system. Qantas also proposed 18 temps for QBT across Australia.
22 April 2002 [ full story ]
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National Delegates Recommend EBA Strategy
Nearly 100 ASU Qantas Delegates from around Australia met in Sydney on 16 & 17 April 2002 to consider the results of the ASU’s EBA Survey, and examine the international airline industry conditions so that recommendations can be made to members about a claim for EBA VI.
19 April 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU National Conference 2002
The biennial National Conference of the Union will be held on December 3-5 this year in Canberra. The Conference brings together representatives of every Branch of the Union from all around the country.
18 April 2002 [ full story ]
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United Negotiations Update
You will no doubt have seen the letter from Michaela James dated 9 April 2002 regarding the EBA update. This letter contained a statement that following the JCC meeting held 4 April 2002, the employee and company representatives reached agreement in principle to many of the clauses.
18 April 2002 [ full story ]
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Southern Airlines Jobs on the Line
On Wednesday 10 April 2002 Mildura, Melbourne and Canberra, staff were given a briefing by management on the changes that management are proposing to the way in which the Regional fleets and crews are managed and operated.
12 April 2002 [ full story ]
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The Latest Word on the United Negotiations
United Airlines negotiations have finally commenced for the 2002 EBA. At the JCC meeting held 4APR02, the Company and the Employee Representatives were able to start going through the proposed agreement clause by clause.
10 April 2002 [ full story ]
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Latest News on Ansett in Administration
The ASU has been notified that the Administrators of Ansett, Mark Mentha and Mark Korda intend to leave Andersen Australia and commence their own practice KMC Pty Ltd (Korda Mentha and Colleagues) as of 15 May 2002. Both Marks were appointed personally to be administrators of Ansett.
09 April 2002 [ full story ]
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AaE EBA’s Still Not Finalised
On Thursday 4 April 2002 the ASU AaE National Negotiating Team met in Melbourne with AaE management to try and finalise our EBA’s with the Company.
08 April 2002 [ full story ]
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Paid maternity leave to be pursued by NSW C&A in enterprise bargaining
The next stage of the ASU Paid Maternity Leave Campaign is well underway, now that local government workers in NSW and other States have rights for paid maternity leave. The second stage includes the endorsement by Branch Secretary, Michael Want (ASU-NSW C&A Branch), for the pursuit of paid maternity leave in all enterprise bargaining agreements negotiations in NSW.
02 April 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU Energy Bulletin - March 2002
Inside this issue: The ESAA responds – market & COAG; energy markets; NSW Industrial Commission & call centres; United Kingdom – supermarkets sell electricity; more websites for energy members to visit; plus more
02 April 2002 [ full story ]
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March 2002 |
ASU calls on government to immediately pay former Traveland staff
The Australian Services Union is calling on the Federal Government to ensure former Traveland employees urgently receive an estimated $7.5 million owed to them in unpaid wages and entitlements.
27 March 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU official appointed ALP Vice-President
Catryna Bilyk, an Industrial Officer in the ASU Tasmanian Branch is now a Vice-President of the Federal Australian Labor Party.
27 March 2002 [ full story ]
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Why we should support the Ansett Deed of Company Arrangement
As members know, there is a shortfall in the Ansett Ground Staff Superannuation Plan of approximately $100 million. This means that there is insufficient money to pay the retrenchment benefit to all employees made redundant.
26 March 2002 [ full story ]
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International Railway Workers' Day - March 26, 2002
The ASU will be supporting the International Transport Federation's (ITF) initiative for railway workers on March 26 as part of our activities in the rail sector.
25 March 2002 [ full story ]
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It’s on again: Time to get ready to improve your wages and conditions
Meetings of ASU members will be held around the country shortly to begin preparations for the upcoming collective bargaining negotiations.
21 March 2002 [ full story ]
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AaE Delegates to Finalise EBA
ASU AaE delegates are to meet with the Company on 4 April 2002 to finalise the details of the EBA’s for on and off airport workers after the principles of agreement were settled at Christmas.
20 March 2002 [ full story ]
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ECM’s on the way says Qantas
On 15 March 2002 ASU delegates from Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne Airports met with Qantas management about plans to introduce Electronic Checkin Machines (ECM’s) in the domestic terminals at these airports by June 2002.
20 March 2002 [ full story ]
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Local government reps vote "yes"
Meetings of local government workplace delegates have voted to support a merger of the ASU’s two Victorian Branches.
18 March 2002 [ full story ]
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United Airlines Fact File
Management from Head office are holding briefings in the next few days, staff need to be armed with some facts and questions about the Australian situation, so we have prepared some information to help understand what is going on.
15 March 2002 [ full story ]
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Getting Ansett Staff Back to Work – Launch of new website
Today a website Ansett Jobs Assist was launched to assist former Ansett employees across Australia to find new jobs.
13 March 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU Energy Bulletin - February 2002
Inside this issue: AGL – National Rehabilitation policy; Superannuation; Indonesia Electricity to connect to Malaysia and Thailand; American unions thank ASU; Water; Enron workers; California – more reports; more Issues
10 March 2002 [ full story ]
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International Women’s Day – time to celebrate or reflect?
The media is split today about whether International Women’s Day (IWD) is an event for celebration or for wearing black armbands. In the union movement we are always in the midst of moving towards ideal situations for workers, so we recognise the value of days such as this one where we can celebrate past achievements and reflect on the way forward.
08 March 2002 [ full story ]
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The Disgraceful Handling of Entitlements at Traveland
A delegation of former Traveland employees and the Secretary of the ASU’s NSW & ACT Services Branch, Luke Foley have met today with Hall Chadwick, Liquidators of Internova Travel Pty Ltd (the one time owners of the former Ansett company Traveland).
08 March 2002 [ full story ]
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It's EBA Survey Time Again
During March ASU delegates and representatives across Australia will be asking you to fill out our Qantas EBA VI Survey so that we get a clear indication of what members want to achieve in the next agreement with Qantas.
08 March 2002 [ full story ]
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United Airlines Replies to Our Claims
At the JCC meeting held on Tuesday 5 March 2002, the company responded to the presentation of the UNCLE claim. Stephen Pearse on behalf of the company advised that while they felt that the UNCLE presentation was very well done, the company’s position was that the claim was incomplete, lacked credibility, was not substantiated and represented a 20% increase in costs.
07 March 2002 [ full story ]
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Triple M - Live Comedy Benefit for Ansett Workers
Radio Station Triple M (Melbourne) have organised a comedy benefit. The proceeds of which will go to Ansett Workers in Victoria.
The ASU has hardship funds in every State. For information on contributing to the hardship fund or accessing benefits please contact your local ASU Branch.
04 March 2002 [ full story ]
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Equal pay when?
March 8 is International Women’s Day and to mark the event, the ASU is renewing its call for pay equity. Despite the fact that we consider ourselves part of a society which values equality and despite the fact that the principle of equal wage was finally achieved in 1972 (30 years ago) there is still a significant earnings gap between the income of women and the income of men.
01 March 2002 [ full story ]
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February 2002 |
Update on TESNA Withdrawal
With the shock news yesterday that the Fox / Lew TESNA group were withdrawing from the Ansett sale, the ASU is now working hard to ensure that full entitlements will be paid to Ansett staff.
28 February 2002 [ full story ]
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New leadership at the SA/NT Branch
Anne McEwen and Andrew Dennard have been elected to new roles in the ASU-SA/NT Branch as a result of former Secretary John Gazzola’s win in the recent South Australian election and his subsequent resignation (see separate article).
28 February 2002 [ full story ]
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TAB action on Race Day
ASU members working in the TAB in Canberra will take industrial action this Saturday, March 2, 2002, in support of their enterprise bargaining claim. This Saturday is also the Black Opal race day.
27 February 2002 [ full story ]
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Ansett Third Creditors Meeting Details
The third Ansett Creditors meeting is to be held at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre, 2 Clarendon Street, Southbank, Melbourne (Melways Reference Map 2F, B9), Wednesday 27 March 2002 at 11.00am.
22 February 2002 [ full story ]
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EBA 20 Day Payout On The Way
In the pays due next week Qantas members covered by the Airline Officers Award will receive a letter from Qantas about the optional payout of accrued 20th Days over and above 2 days as negotiated in the ASU Qantas EBA.
22 February 2002 [ full story ]
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A stunning victory for ASU activist and delegate
Jodie Campbell, ASU activist and former key delegate at Ansett’s Launceston call centre, has pulled off a stunning victory by outpolling 12 high profile candidates to win by nearly 600 votes over her nearest rival in the race for a vacant alderman’s position on Launceston Council (Tasmania).
22 February 2002 [ full story ]
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United Airlines EBA Claim Presented
At the meeting of the JCC held at Sydney Airport on 21 February 2002, UNCLE and the ASU presented our claim for the 2002 EBA to the Company.
22 February 2002 [ full story ]
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French unions support ASU in Connex dispute
The ASU has received support from the International Transport Federation (ITF) in the ASU dispute against the privatised rail infrastructure owned by Connex, operating in Melbourne.
22 February 2002 [ full story ]
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Tasmanian Branch growing steadily
In an adverse industrial environment, the ASU’s Tasmanian Branch has been posting membership growth while it comprehensively reviews its operations. Despite the tough environment in the smallest Australian State, our Tassie comrades are showing us that growth is always possible.
22 February 2002 [ full story ]
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Victorian Branches to merge
The ASU’s two Victorian Branches – the Services & Energy Branch and the MEU/Private Sector Branch – are heading for a merger that will produce one ASU Branch in that State.
19 February 2002 [ full story ]
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United Airlines Claim Unanimously Endorsed
As you will by now all be aware we have been holding meetings at all work locations around the country presenting the results of the surveys and seeking your responses to the UNCLE recommendations for the EBA claim.
18 February 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU says no to water privatisation
The ASU and its local government Branch in NSW, the MEU, have been working with the community at Bega Valley Council to address public concerns on the proposals to privatise water services and waste water services.
15 February 2002 [ full story ]
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ITF supports ASU in its actions at Connex
The ASU has welcomed the support of the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) in its current dispute against Connex in Melbourne. The dispute with Connex has arisen as a result of the Company's intention to restructure and its intentions to pursue forced redundancies of ASU members.
15 February 2002 [ full story ]
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UNION AND PROUD - Brendan O'Connor’s first speech to Parliament
Former ASU Assistant National Secretary Brendan O'Connor in his first speech to Federal Parliament has unambiguously spelt out what he stands for, from the role of trade unions, the plight of Ansett workers, National Competition Policy, reconciliation, refugees and the republic.
14 February 2002 [ full story ]
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Gazzola heads to SA parliament
John Gazzola, SA/NT Branch Secretary of the ASU, was last Saturday elected to the South Australian Legislative Council on the ALP ticket. Health, education and privatisation will be key areas of interest to John in his new role.
14 February 2002 [ full story ]
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American union says thanks to the ASU
The International President of AFSCME (American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees) has written to the ASU thanking us for our contribution of two volumes of condolence books forwarded in sympathy to our fraternal union in the USA over the attacks of September 11 last year.
12 February 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU Energy Bulletin - January 2002
Inside this issue: Western Australia & Indonesia; PSI GATS campaign in Australia; employees at ENRON paid in ENRON shares; Mexican unions fight privatisation; World Bank money for Afghanistan
05 February 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU Qantas EBA V Approved by AIRC
Today the Australian Industrial Relations Commission certified (approved) the ASU Qantas EBA V which means the Agreement comes into operation from 1 February 2002, as does Qantas’ agreement to change their international staff travel policy. The Agreement expires on 30 June 2002.
01 February 2002 [ full story ]
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The word from U.N.C.L.E.
U.N.C.L.E. stands for the United Negotiating Committee Leading all Employees (union and nonunion).
We are nominated and voted for by staff to negotiate on your behalf as part of the Joint Consultative Committee for the 2002 EBA.
01 February 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU uses global union muscle
The ASU is well on its way to being part of a global union agreement with one of the world's largest companies. Negotiations are underway for unions from all parts of the world, representing around 50 million workers, to complete a global agreement with Vivendi, in order to guarantee union rights, no matter what country they live in or what conservative government may be in power. Assistant National Secretary Greg McLean was invited by the PSI to represent Unions across Asia and the Pacific in these negotiations.
01 February 2002 [ full story ]
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January 2002 |
Creditors Meeting Approves Sale to Tesna
The Ansett Group of Companies Creditors meeting on Tuesday 29 January 2002 approved the sale of the mainline Ansett airlines to the Fox / Lew consortium Tesna. ASU members who had forwarded their proxies were represented by ASU Assistant National Secretary Linda White.
30 January 2002 [ full story ]
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Security of Entitlements
The ACTU have reached in principle agreement with TESNA over the protection of workers entitlements in the new airline due to commence on the 1st February 2002.
24 January 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU Overseas Airlines Conference
We are very excited to announce the inaugural overseas airlines conference to be held in March this year. This conference will be for employees in the overseas airline industry who are interested in understanding how the ASU as a union pursues improvements to wages and conditions.
23 January 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU’s Qantas EBA Endorsed
The votes in the ASU’s Qantas EBA V were counted on Friday 18 January 2002 and an overwhelming 80% of those who voted, voted yes to approving the EBA for the 8500 employees in ASU areas in Qantas, Qantas Holidays, QFIT and QFCL. This vote follows the approval of the EBA at meetings of ASU members in November and December 2001.
21 January 2002 [ full story ]
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TESNA Job Offers on the Way
Formal job offers are soon to be posted to all staff who have already received letters confirming they have been selected for new jobs with TESNA. We expect that the offers will start arriving on 15 January 2002.
11 January 2002 [ full story ]
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ASU Official to attend ILO Aviation Summit
Assistant National Secretary Linda White has been nominated as one of 20 aviation worker delegates worldwide for the upcoming International Labour Office’s Tripartite Meeting considering the consequences of the September 11, 2001 incidents on the aviation industry. This meeting which also involves 20 representatives each from aviation companies and governments will be held in Geneva from 21-25 January 2002.
11 January 2002 [ full story ]
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ALGT Announces a Major National Project to Improve Training Strategies for Australia's 800 Councils
Australian Local Government Training (ALGT) has commenced a six month process designed to build an improved national response to meet Local Government's skill development needs.
10 January 2002 [ full story ]
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