The Andrews Labor Government will lodge an application with the Fair Work Commission to terminate or suspend the Rail, Tram and Bus Union’s (RTBU) protected industrial action, in a bid to protect the Grand Prix.

The RTBU’s decision to take industrial action during the Grand Prix not only impacts the Victorian economy but is another unnecessary attempt to disrupt passengers during one of the biggest sporting events on the calendar.

The Government has written to the RTBU to urge them to withdraw this unnecessary action – following a meeting with the Secretary of the Union on Monday.

The RTBU has refused to withdraw the action in full – so we are acting and lodging an application with the Fair Work Commission in a bid to protect the Grand Prix and ensure Victorians and visitors can get to the track safely.

The Government has also written to the CEO of Yarra Trams – making it clear that it is the Government’s expectation that Yarra Trams comes to an agreement with its workforce as soon as possible.

The Fair Work Commission remains the most appropriate avenue for all parties to the agreement to resolve outstanding bargaining matters.

Victorians and visitors to our state have been disrupted enough and we continue to encourage all parties to come to an agreement as soon as possible.