International Railroad Discussion > Aurizon looks to dump outdated workplace deals

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/companies/aurizon-looks-to-dump-outdated-workplace-deals/story-fn91v9q3-1226914232080

RAIL operator Aurizon Holdings wants to end worker agreements claiming they are hurting its competitiveness amid a slowdown in mining investment

Brisbane-based Aurizon said it would apply to Australia’s Fair Work Commission to terminate 14 so-called enterprise agreements that cover the work conditions of its Queensland employees. It has failed to renegotiate the agreements with union representatives despite more than 70 days of talks since April 2013.

Aurizon has proposed a 4 per cent annual wage increase over a three-year period. Still, Aurizon said it has been unable to reach an agreement on issues that include hours of work, rostering, and free rail travel.

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“What we have at the present time is an employer looking for a fight,” Mr. Doogan (memo: union rep) said. “We will pursue this matter.”

If the enterprise agreements are terminated, workers would become employed on individual contracts, allowing the rail company more flexibility to cut jobs and relocate workers when needed.