Sydney Trains Delays Cause Major Disruptions for Commuters Across the City
17.02.2025
Sydney Trains Delays Cause Major Transport Disruptions Across the City. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Sydney Trains Delays continue to disrupt commuters, with hundreds of services cancelled due to industrial action. The ongoing dispute between the NSW government and the RTBU has worsened, causing frustration.
Hundreds of Sydney Trains Cancelled Amid Industrial Action
Over 335 train services were cancelled this morning as 210 rail employees failed to report for work. The persistent Sydney Trains Delays have severely impacted the transport network, leaving thousands of commuters stranded. Sydney Trains CEO Matt Longland stated that 90% of scheduled services were operational, but disruptions remained unpredictable.
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Longland warned that while some train lines were running smoothly, delays might worsen in the afternoon. Transport Minister John Graham advised parents to arrange alternative transport for schoolchildren due to service disruptions. “Parents should explore other travel options to ensure children reach school safely,” Graham urged.
Premier Chris Minns Condemns Strike, Calling It ‘Union Blackmail’
Premier Chris Minns criticized the ongoing train strikes, calling union demands unreasonable and refusing to negotiate further. He stated that making concessions now would set a dangerous precedent and lead to ongoing disruptions. “If we conceded now, industrial actions would continue, worsening the situation for Sydney commuters,” Minns argued.
Minns accused the RTBU of manipulating the system to pressure the government into financial commitments. “If we give in, similar strikes will keep happening every few months,” he warned. He also dismissed the union’s request for a one-time $4,500 payment, calling it an unsustainable financial demand.
Fair Work Commission Rejects NSW Government’s Appeal to Halt Strike
The Fair Work Commission (FWC) rejected the NSW government’s attempt to prevent industrial action. The commission ruled that no conclusive evidence linked the RTBU to coordinated staff absences. Sydney Trains reported nearly 4,000 service disruptions between Friday and Sunday, with further delays expected throughout the week.
Despite the ruling, the government remains firm, hinting at alternative strategies to manage the crisis. The Premier suggested that federal intervention might become necessary if negotiations with the RTBU remain unresolved.
RTBU Defends Strike, Accusing Government of Delaying Resolution
RTBU NSW secretary Toby Warnes defended the union’s stance, arguing that the government misrepresented facts. He claimed that negotiations were nearly finalized last Thursday, with only one issue left unresolved. “We were close to an agreement, but the government refused our final condition,” Warnes said.
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Warnes dismissed claims that the RTBU planned additional Sydney Trains Delays after reaching an agreement. “These claims are false; we simply want a fair deal for all rail workers,” he emphasized. He warned that continued government inaction could escalate industrial disputes rather than resolve them.
Sydney Commuters Face Long Delays and Uncertainty
Thousands of commuters continue to struggle with unpredictable train schedules, extended delays, and overcrowded stations. Passengers at key transport hubs, including Parramatta Station, reported wait times exceeding 40 minutes. Many travelers expressed frustration over unreliable train services disrupting their daily routines.
Transport Minister John Graham acknowledged the inconvenience and encouraged commuters to check real-time train updates. “We recommend checking transport apps frequently to avoid unexpected delays,” Graham stated. He added that while the government hopes for a resolution, contingency plans are being explored.
Key Developments in the Sydney Train Strike
• Mass staff absences:Over 200 rail workers did not show up for work, worsening disruptions.
• Train cancellations:More than 335 services have already been cancelled, stranding daily commuters.
• Government stance:Premier Chris Minns refuses to give in to what he calls “union blackmail.”
• Union response:RTBU claims they have no intention of launching further strikes after securing an agreement.
• Fair Work Commission ruling:The commission dismissed the government’s appeal to halt industrial action.
Future of Sydney Trains Remains Uncertain
The dispute remains unresolved, with another Fair Work Commission hearing scheduled for Wednesday. The government has hinted at potential federal intervention if negotiations stall further. Chris Minns did not rule out seeking assistance from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to break the deadlock.
The RTBU urged the government to withdraw its 471 notices, which prevent workers from receiving pay during partial strikes. Union leaders argued that if disruptions continue, the government will be responsible for ongoing transport issues.
Government and Union Stand Off as Commuters Suffer
The Sydney train strike has escalated into a high-stakes political standoff, with no clear resolution in sight. The government refuses to meet union demands, while the RTBU insists workers deserve fair wages and conditions. Meanwhile, thousands of Sydney commuters remain caught in the middle, struggling with delays and uncertainty.
The outcome of Wednesday’s Fair Work Commission hearing could determine the future of Sydney’s transport network. Until then, travelers must prepare for continued service cancellations and potential further industrial action.
What Sydney Commuters Should Do?
• Monitor train updates:Use real-time tracking apps to check for cancellations and schedule changes.
• Consider alternative transport:Buses, rideshare services, and carpools may provide better reliability during train strikes.
• Plan extra travel time:Expect longer commutes due to ongoing industrial action affecting Sydney train services.
• Stay informed:Follow government announcements for updates regarding Sydney’s transport disruptions.
Source: colitco.com
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