What’s happening?
Council workers in the Southern Downs have secured a pay deal following large scale strike action across Warwick and Stanthorpe last Thursday. A breakthrough in negotiations came at a bargaining meeting on Monday between the Council and union representatives.
The new offer will deliver a 6%/5%/4% wage rise over three years. Council also agreed to drop claims that would have changed Sunday working arrangements and introduced insecure types of employment into the agreement.
Why it matters
The Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) said the outcome is a direct result of workers standing together. Preserved entitlements and improved pay are seen as vital for staff to remain in local government while balancing quality of life.
Local impact
CEO Rachel Brophy and the Council bargaining team were thanked by AWU South Western District Secretary Joey Kaiser for finalising the outcome. The agreement means Council can continue to attract and retain staff while ensuring no increase to rates for residents, as the offer is being absorbed within the existing budget.
By the numbers
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6%/5%/4% – pay rise over the next three years.
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1 week – time between strike action and breakthrough deal.
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No higher rates – confirmed the pay deal will be absorbed within budget.
Zoom In
“This is a great result for our hardworking Council staff and it wouldn’t have been possible if these workers had not have stood up and fought back last week through their strike action,” Mr Kaiser said.
“I would like to thank CEO Rachel Brophy and other members of the Council bargaining team for cutting through the malaise and delivering an outcome their workforce deserves.”
“Working in local government is about having a good work-life balance,” he said. “Our members could take their significant skills and experience to the gas or construction industries and earn a lot more money, but they would lose their quality of life.”
“This was a fight about what working in local government is all about, and through the collective strength of our membership, we have won.”
Zoom Out
Mr Kaiser said the win sends a message to other employers across the region.
“This shows what can happen when workers stick together, know their worth and fight for a better deal,” he said.
“Councils are big employers in regional and rural areas, and it’s important for the economy and liveability of towns like Warwick and Stanthorpe to maintain a decent wage for these workers.”
“This Australian Workers’ Union in Queensland was born in this region – our members are built tough, and they won’t settle for second best.”
What to look for next
The agreement will now be drafted and put to a vote of all Council employees. If endorsed, it will be submitted to the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission for certification.