For the first time, bus drivers and private bus companies are entering a time of uncertainty as they begin negotiations with NSW Transport. The O’Farrell Government has announced that bus contracts across NSW will be put out to tender and open up the process to any operator.

What the changes mean is that both Australian and foreign bus operators from 1 July 2012 will compete for NSW private bus contracts.

The announcement of changes to the tender process raised a few eyebrows with Officials at the Transport Workers’ Union, who know this process will encourage a race to the bottom: bus companies undercutting the wages of drivers to secure the contract.

The TWU has swung into action and is lobbying the NSW Government to protect the wages and conditions of members working in the private bus industry.

“Bus drivers are already struggling on low wages with the average driver earning $44,000 annually. Very simply, they need a raise in their earnings – not a system that will only serve to aggravate their incomes and security,” Wayne said.

The changes in the tender process will put thousands of bus drivers across the industry in jeopardy, and have the potential to seriously affect driver and commuter safety.

“The TWU is ready to take up their fight to the NSW Government to protect the jobs, wages and conditions of our bus drivers,” said Wayne Forno.

For more information about the TWU bus campaign contact your delegate or official.