Workers at Fonterra in Tasmania and Hydro Tasmania have launched Protected Industrial Action (PIA) in pursuit of fair pay and better conditions. This is about more than wages—it’s about workers standing together to demand respect, fairness, and a say in their own future.
At Hydro Tasmania, employees have been bargaining for over six months. They have already voted NO twice to inadequate offers and are fed up with having their claims ignored. Their fight is for a pay increase that keeps pace with other State-Owned Corporations and Government Business Enterprises, ensuring they can maintain a decent standard of living.
Accepting Hydro Tas’ current offer would leave workers even further behind their colleagues in the Tasmanian Government energy sector — and miles behind mainland energy workers. Hydro Tas’ workforce is highly skilled, essential to keeping the lights on, and all they’re asking for is what’s fair and reasonable.
Watch CEPU members call out Hydro Tas, making it clear: this offer isn’t good enough here
The PIA has the potential to cost millions in lost revenue, threatening Hydro’s ability to sell power interstate and supply major industries. Whether the Hydro Board will return to the bargaining table with a reasonable offer remains to be seen, but members are locked in for the long fight, demonstrating the union principle that collective strength is the only way to secure meaningful change.
Meanwhile, Fonterra workers are also demanding wage increases that reflect the cost of living and industry standards. In high-pressure, highly skilled manufacturing environments, workers will NOT beg for scraps. They will take action to ensure their work is properly valued and their skills respected. If you haven’t already, stock up on butter—there could be a shortage.