With new a Government in place and new workplace laws on the way, is there a better deal coming for Telstra workers?
Telstra unions including CPSU, CEPU, and APESMA will meet with management on 15 May to open negotiations on a new union enterprise bargaining agreement (EBA). The ACTU - Australia's peak union body - will also be play a key role coordinating the combined unions' campaign.
CPSU President Louise Persse sees the negotiation of a new agreement as a "unique opportunity" for employees of Australia’s most important telecommunications company.
"To be a success the new agreement must deliver for staff, management and clients. With more balanced workplace laws on the way Telstra employees have their best opportunity in a decade to fight for and win a new agreement that rewards hard work and respects workplace rights.
"It’s in the interest of all parties to ensure this EBA allows Telstra to attract and retain highly skilled and motivated employees. We need a positive and modern EBA that rewards staff properly, while recognising Telstra operates in a highly competitive global environment.
"Getting a positive outcome is particularly important right now because AWAs are being phased out in Telstra and the new EBA is likely to set the standard for pay and conditions," said Ms Persse.
The unions have adopted the following principles to guide negotiations:
• Good secure jobs for a skilled workforce who deliver important services to the community.
• Protection of current conditions including the redundancy agreement.
• A fair balance between work commitments and family and community life.
• A workplace where employees get a genuine say about decisions that affect them.
• Decent pay rises that keep pace with the cost of living and also recognises the contribution of staff.
• Fair and equitable performance management arrangements.
• The right to join and be represented by a union, and access to effective conciliation and arbitration.
What you can do
If you are already a union member, thanks for your support. Please help by talking about the unions' EBA campaign with your workmates.
If you are not yet a member, please join today and help us win some real improvements in Telstra for you and your colleagues. The more members we have, the better agreement we will make.
More information
As well as helping members win better pay and conditions, the CPSU also provides expert advice and support on a wide rage of individual workplace issues and offers other benefits and services. Find out how much you can save here http://www.cpsu.org.au/benefitsservices
