The Community and Public Sector Union has today revealed that the new offer from ABC management will leave workers worse off in year one than the offer that was voted down late last year.

The new offer includes a one off $1,500 sign on payment, which fails to offset the exclusion of backpay, and results in a real offer of just 2.3% in the first year.

Union members in the ABC are disappointed in their employer’s attitude towards bargaining and are continuing to prepare for industrial action.

The CPSU Protected Action Ballot opens on Monday 20th February. To vote, staff need to have joined the CPSU by the end of today (Thursday 16th February).

Quotes attributable to Sinddy Ealy, CPSU ABC Section Secretary:

“Not only has ABC management insulted staff with a backwards offer, but they are also ignoring requests to meet with union representatives.

“Putting an offer on the table that leaves staff worse off at the very time they need relief from inflation and cost of living pressures, and worse off than the offer they voted down, means ABC management are either terrible at maths or have a complete lack of respect for their staff.

“The ABC is built on the people who work there, and it is time for management to start acknowledging that. Investing in content making means investing in the support staff and workers who make ABC content.

“It is safe to say that CPSU members will be continuing on the path toward protected industrial action, but if management intend on putting another offer on the table, we recommend it at least be an improvement on the previous ones.

Media contact: Tori McGregor 0429 000 620