The RTBU is warning Newcastle bus commuters to brace for further impacts in the coming weeks unless Keolis Downer “comes to the table”.
Local drivers recently voted overwhelmingly in favour of more protected industrial action.
It follows months of failed negotiations with the private operator over fair wages and conditions.
In fact, more than 90% of drivers backed the move, which ranges from work stoppages to overtime bans and other measures designed to pressure the company into delivering a just enterprise agreement.
Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) NSW Tram and Bus Division president Peter Grech said its members have had enough of being forced to prop up a failing privatised system.
“Anyone who’s caught a bus in Newcastle knows the service is broken,” he stated.
“Services are late, routes are cut, drivers are assaulted and pay issues are constant.
“This is the reality of bus privatisation.
“Drivers are the face of a crumbling system… and they’re fed up.
“They’re demanding safe conditions, fair pay and a bus network that puts the community first.”
Mr Grech admitted the problems stemmed from privatisation.
“This is what happens when governments hand over public transport to private operators,” he said.
“Profits go up, services go down… and workers and commuters are left to carry the burden.”
The RTBU said notice would be given before any strike took place, although Monday 22 September was slated as the likely date.
Protected industrial actions, including drivers refusing to turn their consoles on and not wearing their uniforms, will continue as they’ve done so since April 2025.
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