Tuesday 4 November 2008
At this point, the process is very straight-forward - submitting the application in writing with no formal hearing or meeting at this stage to discuss the ballot.
In the meantime, members have been very supportive of the move.
They understand that their patience has been abused by a HR team in Telstra that's driven more by a wage cutting, anti-union ideology rather that getting the result of a fairly negotiated wage deal.
"hi just to let you know I support you all the way & I'm willing to take industrial action to get Telstra back to the table. I would be willing to go off a week at a time." - S.A
"CEPU, I am in complete agreement with what is proposed, and you have my full support. I am going on leave shortly, and would like to be kept across the situation so I can vote YES." - G.M.
Telstra has publicly confirmed it will oppose our application along with the application made by our colleagues at the CPSU - click here
Besides our plans for action being broadcast on radio across the country, there's been media coverage via the following outlets:
- Unions shape up for Telstra strike action - Australian Financial Review
- Telstra workers seek nod for strike - The Age
- Telstra workers plan strike action - ABC
- Telstra workers prepare for strike - IT Wire
What next?
It's a public holiday in Melbourne to celebrate the race that stops a nation, so we expect that after this the AIRC will inform us of an initial hearing date - possibly Thursday or early Friday. It's in the hands of the AIRC.
Given Telstra has said it will oppose the ballot, the process will potentially be delayed.
After a few days of hearing, the AIRC will make a decision and if it approves the ballot application there are only a few short days for us to make any last updates to our membership lists - only to correct held record details eg addresses etc.
These lists will be submitted to the body likely to independently run the ballot.
To maximise your chances of staying on the voter roll, and if you have recently moved or changed ANY of your work details - please get in touch with us today on (02) 9893 7822 or admina@cepu.org