Pay rise finally in for Sunbus drivers

SUNBUS drivers in Cairns will no longer be the worst paid in Queensland under wage parity conditions to be implemented by the State Government.

Deputy Premier and Transport Minister Jackie Trad announced at the Labor Conference in Townsville, that a standard rate for bus drivers across Queensland would be introduced, starting in Cairns.

The new wages, which are yet to be announced, will be finalised through the government’s Cabinet Budget Review Committee.

Wage disparity has been a sticking point for Cairns’ Sunbus drivers for years, who have been paid as much as $4500 per year less that drivers in Townsville and southeast Queensland.

Regular industrial action by the drivers, including stopping work and refusing to collect fares, has lost the company up to $7000 a day.

Transport Workers Union Queensland branch secretary Peter Biagini said bus drivers across the state were rejoicing at the Deputy Premier’s announcement.

“The pressure that drivers and union members have put on TransLink, is why we are seeing this result today,” he said.

“An equal rate for drivers will see bus drivers have dignity at work and pride in their job.

“All drivers across Queensland do the same fantastic work and an equal rate will reflect that.

“The government has listened to the concerns of working people and has stoop up for bus drivers in Queensland.”

A TWU spokesman said union would forgo any planned industrial action in Cairns.

Minister Trad said the government was committed to fairness in the workplace for all Queenslanders.

“Bus drivers work hard to provide an invaluable service to the Queensland economy and community and deserve to be fairly remunerated for their labour,” she said

“I can announce that we will start delivering fairer rates of pay for bus drivers across the state by ensuring that our lowers paid bus drivers in Cairns and on the Sunshine Coast get a better deal.”