ABC staff vote to take industrial action if management doesn’t improve offer
ABC journalists have voted overwhelmingly in favour of taking industrial action as they push for a fair deal from management.
Close to 90% of union members voted in favour of a range of industrial actions up to and including an indefinite strike in a protected action ballot that closed yesterday.
MEAA Media Director Cassie Derrick said members were resolute that the current proposal from ABC management needs to be improved.
Union representatives met with ABC managing director David Anderson on Tuesday but there was no better offer forthcoming.
“David Anderson listened to our concerns and has agreed to postpone voting on the current offer, but there was no commitment made about providing an improved deal that addresses the major concerns of staff.
“This is not just about pay. It’s about ensuring a fair go at forging a career at the public broadcaster.
“It’s about sustainable careers and equal pay for journalists in the regions, from diverse backgrounds and women.”
Outstanding issues for ABC staff include career progression through pay bands to provide a pathway for junior staff, and the majority of staff in the regions as journalists gain skill and experience in a role; a regular, transparently reported gender and race pay gap audit so we can address specific problems with inequality and retention of diverse staff; and an improved buyout system.
The offer must also include back pay to the expiry date of the previous enterprise bargaining agreement.
ABC members around Australia will be meeting later today to discuss the result of the protected action ballot and next steps.
ABC staff vote to take industrial action if management doesn’t improve offer
Last update: March 1, 2023
