Tasmanian electrical workers at Zinfra have secured significant improvements to pay and conditions following a breakthrough enterprise bargaining campaign that saw union density rise dramatically and workers take industrial action for the first time.
The outcome marks a major shift for the workforce, with union membership growing from 48 per cent to full density over the course of the campaign. Alongside this, the delegate structure was strengthened, expanding from just two delegates to six, with a clear focus on building skills in communication, organising and workplace leadership.
At the heart of the campaign was the idea of “same job, same pay.” The CEPU were successful in making the case that workers deserve the same pay and entitlements as people doing the same work but on the mainland. Workers secured a 20 per cent wage increase over the lifetime of the agreement, including a boost of $11.30 per hour for entry-level tradespeople.
Conditions were also significantly improved. Severance pay was doubled from $60 a week to $120, and a new urgent event allowance was introduced. Personal leave entitlements increased from 10 days to 15 days, providing workers with greater security and flexibility.
The campaign also represented a turning point in how workers approached bargaining. Initially, many employees were inclined to follow previous strategies, but organisers encouraged a more proactive approach. When workers took industrial action for the first time, the company responded with a lockout. In response, the campaign escalated, including a strategic use of media to apply pressure and highlight the dispute publicly. Ultimately, the strength of the union members and organizers created enough pressure for better outcomes to be won.
Union Power!
