Melbourne Public Transport – Free Rides
Melbourne public transport systems will be free for commuters on August 12 and 19 – two Monday’s in a row – as Unions strike.
There’s an ongoing dispute, and it’s part of industrial action led by the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) and its members.
On the August Monday’s, authorised officers will refuse to check Myki tickets.
As part of the days of action, booking-office staff will refuse to sell or upload Myki cards as well, so gates will be open for commuters to ride at no cost.
“This industrial action is aimed at Metro’s hip pocket, not the travelling public,” said RTBU Victorian branch secretary Luba Grigorovitch in a statement.
“The RTBU is seeking to keep the public well-informed of any impacts ahead of any industrial action, however these action items announced today are designed to target Metro and will not impact commuters’ ability to catch the train.”
“This is a very disappointing outcome – industrial action is a completely unnecessary step. This action is still avoidable, and we encourage the union to reconsider,” says a Metro spokesperson in a statement. “We will do everything in our power to minimise disruptions to our passengers as a result of any action taken.”
7News Melbourne on the Melbourne Rail Union Action
“The RTBU will continue to meet with Metro and negotiate in good faith. Our members would prefer to avoid industrial action if an agreement can be reached, however the level of frustration among members is at an all-time high and we will continue with industrial action if pushed.”
News from Public Transport Victoria for more – Latest from Melbourne News
