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Latest News

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It’s time to end the privatisation of our region’s bus network

We stand with the Rail Tram and Bus Union & Newcastle councillors calling for the state government to take back control of the region's bus network when its contract with Keolis Downer expires in 2027.


Privatising our buses has eroded the quality, accessibility and reliability of public transport, leaving both commuters and bus drivers worse off as the pursuit of profit is prioritised.


Keolis Downer has the workforce stuck in a toxic cycle where poor wages and working conditions are exacerbating a driver shortage, which impacts service quality and further worsens working conditions and pressures.


These bus drivers, who are copping a rise in violent and antisocial incidences, recently asked for a wage increase to keep up with the cost of living and fairly compensate drivers, but Keolis Downer refused to negotiate in good faith, forcing workers to take industrial action.


It’s not acceptable. Our public transport should prioritise service quality and community benefit, not private profits. It’s time to end the privatisation of our bus network!



RTBU Secretary David Babineau and president Peter Gresch.
RTBU Secretary David Babineau and president Peter Gresch.

Acknowledgement of Country

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Hunter Workers acknowledges the Awabakal, Worimi and Wonnarua Nations as the traditional custodians of Newcastle and the Hunter region, and recognises their continuing cultural and spiritual relationships to the land, waters, and seas.
We pay respect to the wisdom of the Elders past and present, and extend that respect to other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders visiting this website.

Hunter Workers recognises that the Union Movement has not always upheld our defining principle of solidarity, having oftentimes excluded First Nations comrades historically. We are committed to the work of reconciliation.

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Authorised by Leigh Shears, Hunter Workers, Newcastle 

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(02) 4929 1162

Hunter Unions Building,

406-408 King Street, Newcastle West NSW 2302
Australia

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©2021 Hunter Workers

Home page photos by Iron Monkey Photography

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