The Sydney rail strike ends with historic wage agreement, bringing long-awaited relief to commuters across New South Wales. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The Sydney rail strike ends with historic wage agreement, bringing long-awaited relief to commuters across New South Wales.
Image: Rose Makin/stock.adobe.com

After months of disruption, more than 11,700 union members voted overwhelmingly—92% in favor—to approve a new enterprise agreement that guarantees a 12% pay increase over the next three years. The deal also includes backpay dating to May 2024.

Workers Approve Historic Agreement as Sydney Rail Strike Ends

This vote officially ends a period of industrial action that caused major delays and cancellations on the Sydney Trains and NSW TrainLink networks since September. The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) confirmed that the new agreement delivers improved pay for all worker classifications and enhanced working conditions across the board.

Don’t miss…Bairabi–Sairang railway line connects Aizawl to rail grid

RTBU NSW Secretary Toby Warnes described the outcome as a “historic” result following a long and difficult negotiation. “It’s been incredibly tough, but rail workers now have a deal that recognizes the vital role they play in keeping our state moving,” he said. “This agreement offers not just wage increases but respect for the job they do every day.”

Warnes emphasized that the union’s goal was always twofold: fair treatment for workers and a safe, reliable rail network for passengers. “Now that the Sydney rail strike ends, we can shift focus back to delivering high-quality service,” he added.

Government Declares Free Travel to Celebrate End of Strike

To thank the public for their patience, the NSW Government announced fare-free travel on July 31 and August 1. During this 48-hour window, Opal gates and readers will be turned off, allowing passengers to ride for free across the network.

A government spokesperson said: “This gesture is not only a thank you but an invitation for people to visit central business districts and support local restaurants and retailers impacted by the months of disruption.”

Transport Minister Pledges Reliability and Investment Post-Agreement

Minister for Transport John Graham welcomed the resolution and looked ahead with optimism. “The Sydney rail strike ends with historic wage agreement, and now we must invest in stronger infrastructure and new technology to ensure future stability,” he stated. “With both management and workers united, we’re focused on reliability and fast recovery when disruptions occur.”

The government plans to continue record-level funding for rail maintenance, technology upgrades, and service reliability, aiming to deliver a system worthy of public trust and worker pride.

Source: www.railexpress.com.au

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

Don’t miss…Wabtec Acquisition of Evident Inspection Technologies Finalized

Find the latest news of the railway industry in Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union and the rest of the world on our page on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, read Railway Supply magazine online.

Place your ads on webportal and in Railway Supply magazine. Detailed information is in Railway Supply media kit