THE SUMMER 2018 TWUWHEEL www.twuwa.org.au
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TRANSPORT WORKERS UNION (WA BRANCH) PH: 1800 657 477 Stronger Together! We are Ready to Change the Rules on SAFE RATES!
Save Get Ready for the National Convoy the for SAFE RATES 31 March 2019 Date To the travelling public of Perth, our drivers and members of the West Australian Branch of the TWU - we thank you for your continued support.
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Published by Perth Advertising Services. Phone: 9375 1922. Fax: 9275 2955. The Membership has Spoken AND OUR LEADERSHIP OF THE TRANSPORT WORKERS WAS RE-ELECTED IN A RESOUNDING RESULT
Our leadership of the Transport Workers in WA was re-elected in a resounding result in TWU union elections last December. Congratulations to Tim Dawson who was re-elected for a second term as secretary. FORMALLY ELECTED POSITIONS (IN ORDER OF PHOTOS): • Branch Secretary - Tim Dawson • Branch President - Ray ‘Macca’ McMillan “Thank you to our strong and active • Branch Vice President - John ‘JD’ Davis • Our Branch Committee of Management - Ralph Roth, membership who voted to keep our Jo Woodford, Andy Payne, Patricia Bushby, Mike Lawson, Jim Morrison, Bruce Spaul, union strong” said Tim Tony Fleming, Travis Leacock, Lee Patterson, • Branch Trustees - Ralph Roth & Jo Woodford “There was some underhandedness and • National Councillor - John Davis, Ray ‘Maca’ McMillan • Female National Councillor - Jo Woodford some misleading comments made by the other team this election, but I don’t think the wool can be pulled over our and on a platform with a vision for your members eyes as easy as that.” future. Our members elected the best ‘Your union will NEVER “Our membership is smarter than that” team for the job.” said Tim. There were union elections held in our stop working hard “Our membership re-elected the only TWU Branches Australia-wide. NSW for the best interests team that was able to act with integrity Branch and National office were elected unopposed. In SA/NT, QLD and Vic the of Transport Workers’ incumbent Secretaries were re-elected to represent their States too. “Due to the misinformation, we may towards a safe and sustainable industry have lost a member or two, I would say and the rights and conditions of to those members, we are disappointed transport workers. we couldn’t sway your vote. But we “Your union will never stop working understand there is always room for hard for the best interests of Transport DIRECTORY improvement and we’d love to have you Workers.” back on board.” Telephone 1800 657 477 Alongside a Branch Committee of Rank FREE CALL STATEWIDE Only 8% of the membership voted & File Transport workers of all sectors, Facsimile (Fax) 6313 3099 against Tim’s team which puts the union I’m privileged to be the Secretary you’ve Website: www.twuwa.org.au in good stead for the future. Email: [email protected] elected to get on with the job!” Address: Level Three, “My promise to you is for a more united The AEC have formally declared the 82 Beaufort Street, Perth, 6000 and resilient union fighting for your rights Transport Workers Union, Western Postal: PO Box 8497, now and into the future. We are working Australia election result. Congratulations Perth Business Centre, WA 6849 hard as ever towards 2020 campaign, to all candidates and participants. TWU Super: 1800 222 071 FREECALL
The Wheel Summer 2018 1 Something We Can Agree on As the Federal Election looms & safe rates are firmly on Labors agenda we need to discuss why safe rates is so important for Tr ansport workers
Report from our commercial heavy vehicles do not warrant So, when bosses sign on that dotted line, prosecutions under industrial law. they do so knowing that if a life of their Secretary This is a careless approach, because workforce is lost they may just as easily go TIM DAWSON people are dying on the road, AND to Jail or pay a hefty fine. Transport Workers are dying in their The agenda is safety. The biggest priority for unions is workplace workplace. safety. The bottom line for TWU has always been So, when the roads aren’t regarded as safety. It might not surprise you that when you your workplace, but it is 90% of where work in the transport industry the road IS you do your work, when we talk about The assurance you and your family have our workplace. industrial manslaughter, kill a worker and when you leave for work knowing you will send the bosses to jail, if a truck driver return home. And it is a disgrace that Worksafe dies 1000km away from his depot, do you still doesn’t recognise our roads as a think that is going to count? Every worker, no matter what industry, workplace. Do you think that is fair on the truckies should have the right to a safe workplace. And the right to return home safe to their Which means that the fatalities that occur family? families every work day on the road aren’t counted as workplace Industrial manslaughter is not just about fatalities. locking bosses up. And this extends to Safe rates. They are counted on the road toll. Unions are not campaigning for bosses to That if truck drivers and operators are paid line prison cells. a base minimum and a ‘safe’ wage, road And because they are not considered tragedies can be reduced. ‘worksite’ deaths, deaths that involve Unions are asking for a greater accountability from bosses.
Report from GLENN STERLE, Assistant Shadow Minister for Road Safety
Before Christmas, the Australian Labor Party • After decades of decline, the road toll is SAFE held its 48th National Conference in Adelaide again heading in the wrong direction. where the leadership team and Labor party • Labor will establish a National Office of delegates from across the country came Road Safety. This dedicated unit within together to set Labor’s policy platform which RATES: the Department of Infrastructure will be will deliver a fair go for all Australians under tasked with improving data collection, a Shorten Labor Government. promoting best practice research, and SAFE Over the last 7 months, since my leading the development of the next ten- appointment as Shadow Assistant Minister year National Road Safety Strategy, which for Road Safety, I have worked closely with will commence in 2021. Labor will ensure MATES Anthony Albanese MP, Shadow Minister the strategy draws on the findings of the for Infrastructure and Transport and the Inquiry into the National Road Safety National Office and State branches of the Strategy 2011-2020, and is developed ALP mighty Transport Workers Union on policy in partnership with state and territory relating to that portfolio. governments, law enforcement, motoring REAFIRMS organisations, experts, research bodies I was therefore pleased to move amend- and other relevant stakeholders. COMMITMENT ments at the conference to our existing policies on Road Safety which reaffirms the • Labor will ensure that the national safety TO ROAD commitment that the Labor Party has to standards applying to motor vehicles are reducing road trauma and improving road up to date and fit for purpose. The role of SAFETY AT safety more generally. the national government is to ensure the latest road safety technology features are in NATIONAL At the conference, I was proud to move the new vehicles, including electronic stability following motions which were unanimously control and autonomous emergency CONFERENCE endorsed by the Conference delegates: braking. Labor will work with industry and
2 The Wheel Summer 2018 ‘Every Worker, no matter what Something We Can Agree on industry, has a right As the Federal Election looms & safe rates are firmly on Labors agenda to a safe workplace we need to discuss why safe rates is so important for Tr ansport workers & return home safe
Because, as it stands, a drivers’ death is to their families Tim speaks to over 4,000 unionists lining the streets so often seen as an unfortunate accident. each day’ at the Change the Rules Rally in Perth in November When in fact there is a chain of events leading up to these deaths that are entirely preventable. Which is a huge influence on maintaining It starts from the top. Pressure comes from 1. Safe sustainable rates, a fair go for those who choose to operate the top. their own business. 2. Legislation for minimum payments, And even you might believe you’re the 3. Legislation for on time payments and The Road Freight Industry Tribunal has highest authority – everybody has an 4. Legislated conflict resolution recuperated millions for small operators. economic power that dictates what you are paid. This is what your union the TWU is asking This is about a level playing field. for and this is what will help nip these Everybody is accountable to someone. kinds of events in the bud. It is about preventing the high number of deaths on our roads every year. And it is high time the clients, those who Safe rates is not an attack on Owner- hold the purse-strings, the ones who It will not be a golden bullet. operators, small businesses or family- control the contracts and the ones who owned fleets, the TWU has a proud history But it will be the change the industry is aren’t paying any tax in this country; it is of representing you and working alongside looking for. high time they are held to account. you. It will put a substantial dent in influencing The TWU was instrumental in setting up how our industry is governed stop the the owner-driver tribunal. The Road Freight drive to the bottom. Transport Industry Tribunal (RFTIT). IT IS TIME THEY PAID SAFE RATES!
stakeholders to promote vehicle 3. The capacity to resolve (including safety ratings and to amend where necessary through binding the Australian Design Rules to decisions) transport supply chain mandate proven vehicle safety / contract networks disputes; technologies in new vehicles. 4. Appropriate and adequate The more important motion enforcement regime; and for transport workers which 5. Appropriate resourcing of the conference endorsed supply chain / contract networks unanimously was the re- auditing, training and education establishment of Safe Rates Our State Secretary Tim Dawson is fighting for a fair go through an industry fund. legislation. for transport workers alongside Senator Glenn Sterle Last year’s conference was terrific A Federal Labor Government will, and it highlighted the power that as a matter of urgency, legislate 1. Universal application of a system the mighty Transport Workers Union can for a national system of Safe Rates of binding, enforceable and safe have on achieving real outcomes for its consisting of an independent body standards. The standards will cover all membership when we stand together as with responsibility for safe standards parties in the transport supply chain one. of work including fair payments and / contract networks to ensure safe conditions. This task has become more performance, planning and appropriate I look forward to continuing to work with pressing given the emergence of new payments. The standards will focus on stakeholders, research experts, unions, technology and the gig economy in eliminating economic and contractual industry bodies and the leadership team practices that place undue pressure passenger and freight transport which of the ALP in my capacity as Shadow on transport supply chains / contract has accelerated the downward spiral Assistant Minister for Road Safety in networks; throughout the transport industry. order to draw more attention to this very 2. Appropriate, enforceable payments and important issue and to deliver Safe Rates The system will ensure implementation related conditions for all operators and for Australia’s truck drivers when Labor of the following principles: workers, regardless of label;’’ wins the next election!
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4 The Wheel Summer 2018 Strong Unions Need Strong Our State Secretary TIM DAWSON with CFMEU WA Branch Secretary Mick Buchan Women! and the Women of WIMDOI including TWU’s Mel Reid and Kelly Rio And the WA Division of WIMDOI (women in Male Dominated Occupations & Industries) is growing 10 fold!
Report from Branch Secretary The women of the committee are all To give a voice to women who work union and work in a range of different in male dominated occupations and TIM DAWSON industries. provide a network to ensure women have resources to feel safe and adequately I was invited as a guest along with Transport, construction, electricians, provided for in their workplaces. Mick Buchan from CFMEU to the last Rail, manufacturing, maritime etc. The meeting of 2018 for the Women in Male committee’s purpose is simple, but While there are some things that make Dominated Occupations and Industries effective: women different from men. (WIMDOI) WA division committee in December. There are more things that unite us than divide us. And I have a lot of respect for anyone giving this game a TWU Membership crack. Fees 2018 WIMDOI offers another outlet (All prices include GST) to share resources and offer advantages to campaign and CASH – CHEQUE – BPAY change the industry for the JOINING FEE better. $20.00 (new members only) Attracting and retaining FULL YEAR women in our industry, $598.70 (1st Jan – 31st Dec) that will ensure for a more HALF YEAR diverse workplace and an overall better workplace. $310.35 (1st Jan – 30th June or 1st Jul – 31st Dec) The committee was HHHHHH assembled half way (from cheque, through 2018 and holds DIRECT DEBIT savings or Credit card a/c) meetings every month. (Visa, MasterCard accepted) If you’re interested in JOINING FEE being a part of the Proudly servicing Western Australia $20.00 (new members only) committee you can FORTNIGHTLY contact the girls on the for over 40 years Facebook page and at $23.80 (debited on your nominated day of each fortnight) the contact numbers below. 35B Sarich Court,Osborne Park WA 6017 MONTHLY 9244 2999 $51.50 (debited on your nominated day of each month) www.fastacouriers.com.au Members fees current as of 1 Jan 2019 and as advertised on our website
The Wheel Summer 2018 5 Power in Knowledge & Numbers
Report from New Organiser CHARLIE NICHOLS ‘Having a STRONG union floor it wasn’t hard to rally at quick notice’
All members should know and This could interfere with direct debits pays went in on the Monday before understand their EBA. and even worse angry families not Christmas. receiving any monies until after It is not just your Delegates duty to Well done to all those committed union Christmas. understand it and act on it if management members who held their ground. chooses not to abide by it. Having a strong union floor it wasn’t Power comes from knowledge and hard to rally at quick notice thirty or more The guys at Toll Ipec Hazelmere certainly numbers which is why your EBA is members to stand at their manager’s do. so important to read. And why it is so office door and demand that Toll abide important to belong to the union. Christmas this year fell on their pay day by their EBA. and with their agreement Toll could pay I remember Jim Morrison who is one of them on the next day but the next day The strength in numbers we have at Toll the delegates out at Toll Ipec telling me was Boxing Day. Ipec was the deciding factor. when he first became a delegate and was having a meeting with a manager. Toll management over East said no A lot of people felt strongly and deeply worries we will pay them on Thursday. enough about an issue, and were willing Jim was referring to his EBA and the to stand their ground on it. manager told him the last thing this The delegates knew their EBA and manager wanted was the delegates notified management that this was not Members waited outside the office while reading that. acceptable. their delegates had a meeting with Toll management and happy to advise their He said he has never forgotten those words. They’re tough as concrete at Cockburn Cement
The guys at Cockburn Cement A great deal from • Direct engagement with apprentices (Adelaide Brighton) have reached an TWU organiser instead of using agency trades in-principle agreement strengthening CHRIS NELSON • Implementing employee committees their previous EA to give them even to review and update work practices better pay and conditions than before. Some of the improvements were – It has taken a long time to get to an The site is made up of numerous • Large reduction in committed agreement but it’s been worth the wait unions (ETU, AWU, AMWU, CFMEU, overtime hours with no loss in pay and the crew can be proud they stuck and TWU) who were all united together • Remaining hours written off in first together to see it through to the end to and supporting each other to fight for year of next EA get a good deal. a great outcome over a long period of • CPI pay rises and increase in Overtime bargaining for 2 years. pay rate The work isn’t over yet, the boys need • Back pay of almost 2 years to make sure they keep the Company honest and make sure the agreement ‘The crew can be proud • No trade-offs of any current conditions is adhered to which won’t be a problem they stuck together to see it • Retained unlimited sick leave for with this strong union site. through for a good deal’ serious illness/injury Keep up the great work!
6 The Wheel Summer 2018 Time to Take Toll to Task With our newest Organiser Charlie Nichols coming on board at the WA Branch who shouldn’t need any introduction but wanted to take this opportunity to introduce himself
Hi to all my Toll comrades, some of you I can recall at the last agreement how Toll may know me, but for those of you who wanted take a lot of protections out of the don’t my name is Charlie Nichols. agreement, and offer no pay rises in the I have recently come on board the TWU first 2 years or any super. as an official organiser. What a joke!! I have worked at Toll Ipec since 2002, Union workers showed Toll we meant at DX transport before that for 6 years, business and when the protected action beginning it all as a sub-contractor at went out to vote, Tolls attitude changed. courier Australia from 1987. STAUNCH UNIONIST With action imminent, they got serious, Charlie is always up I have a fair idea about transport and I and we lost nothing out of the agreement. know how tough it is to be a subbie. for a Rally 1st year we got pay rises, $750 sign on for I know what it’s like to work in a weak, everyone including Owner Driver’s, and non-union yard. Super up to 13%. And I know the difference between The 2nd year saw 2% pay rises and super I have come to understand you can’t working in a strong union yard with a TWU to go to 13.75%. rely on the Fair Work Commission to win bargained agreement like the Toll EBA. disputes. This year, as of the 1st of July another 3% An agreement that is 33.35% above pay rise and super to go to 14.75%. Strong union yards and building our union award rates of pay, a further 3% to come members is how we need to fight back, next July, and super to be paid at 14.75%. We also were able to negotiate full support ‘THE CHANGE THE RULES’ utilisation clause 18, casual conversion These sorts of pay rises, and great terms campaign which gives members power and conditions would never have been clause, indemnity insurance, and extra to resolve issues and protect each paid parental leave. won, had it not been negotiated Nationally other through bringing back our right to by the TWU. We also got Toll to agree on a swab test withdraw our labour. for random DNA testing. That is every Toll union member across This worked before, it will work again! Australia standing together in unity Now that just goes to show the strength to achieve these claims on pay and Toll union members have when it comes Finally, I just want to thank all the conditions. to negotiating an EBA. Delegates for the great job they do! Keep it up, I really appreciate it. I have been a shop steward at one of the Well done to all on that achievement. biggest yards at Toll Ipec which has close Especially Steve Den Ridder and Joel Also, to all the Toll members new and long to 200 members that are in the TWU. O’Brien, WA State Delegates. serving, thank you for your support. I then became a state Delegate and a I’ve been organising now for over 6 I expect you’ll be hearing more from me National negotiator who represented WA months and I’ve learnt a lot. and I look forward to doing the best I can at the last EBA, and have seen first-hand for the members. the power and responsibility that the Toll try and undermine the agreement national negotiators have when it comes to where ever they can. Which makes it protecting terms and conditions of the EBA. tough for us to hold them accountable at times. This EBA has been fought for by previous National Delegates, and the team always ensure a fair log of claims be submitted on behalf of our members. And fair pay rises and increased Super locked in, over the term of the agreement. While all of this is being done, we are keeping members informed with our extra paid meetings.
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS: Charlie and his first organiser Glenn Sterle at DX when the union saved all these boys’ jobs... look at how dark my hair was says Charlie...
The Wheel Summer 2018 7 For the people whoFor keep the people Australia who keepmoving. Australia moving.
In a world that never stops So at TWUSUPER, we’re proud TWUSUPER.COM.AU moving,In a world where that supply never stopsis toSo be at theTWUSUPER, people who we’re look proud after forTWUSUPER.COM.AU the people who keep to be the people who look after for the people who keep franticallymoving, wheretrying supplyto keep is you. And we do this by investing Australia moving. frantically trying to keep overyou. $360And we million do this in Australianby investing Australia moving. up with demand, time has over $360 million in Australian up with demand, time has infrastructure – the road, bridges, become our most valuable infrastructure – the road, bridges, become our most valuable stations, airports and ports that commodity. stations, airports and ports that commodity. keep Australia moving. keep Australia moving. From the food in our From the food in our And, as your Industry SuperFund, supermarkets, to the petrol in our And, as your Industry SuperFund, supermarkets, to the petrol in our we’ve delivered more to our cars, none of it would exist if it we’ve delivered more to our cars, none of it would exist if it members over the past 10 years weren’t for the people who, day members over the past 10 years weren’t for the people who, day thanthan thethe averageaverage retail super in day out, keep Australia moving in day out, keep Australia moving fund.fund. – you.– you.
Disclaimer:Disclaimer: Past Past performance performance is not is not a reliable a reliable indicator indicator of of future future performance performance and and should should never never be be thethe solesole factor considered whenwhen selectingselecting a a fund. fund. See See twusuper.com.au/superrater twusuper.com.au/superrater for for full full disclaimer. disclaimer. TWUTWU Nominees Nominees Pty PtyLtd, Ltd, ABN ABN 67 67002 002 835 835 412, 412, AFSL AFSL 239163, 239163, is isthe the trustee trustee of of TWUSUPER TWUSUPER ABN ABN 77 77 343 343 563 563 307307 andand the issuer of interestsinterests inin it. it. This This information information is is of of a ageneral general nature nature and and does does not not take take into into account account your your personalpersonal objectives, objectives, situation situation or needs.or needs. Before Before acting acting on on this this information, information, you you should should consider consider your your objectives,objectives, financial situation andand needs.needs. A Acopy copy ofof the the product product disclosure disclosure statement statement should should be beobtained obtained from from TWUSUPERTWUSUPER (at (atwww.twusuper.com.au www.twusuper.com.au or orby by calling calling 1800 1800 222 222 071) 071) and and considered considered carefully carefully before before youyou makemake a decision to acquireacquire thethe product product or or continue continue to to hold hold the the product. product.
8 The Wheel Summer 2018 Making our Voices Heard
From MICHAEL KAINE National Secretary
It says the wealthy companies at the top can no longer escape the responsibility 2019 will be SIGN UP TODAY FOR THE of their effects on our industry. MARCH CONVOY: If you’re a road transport worker we hope a big year for bit.ly/Convoy2019 to see you on the day, to stand with your union mates and to take on those who our union... think its ok to trash drivers and their jobs. We need to show those who oppose our If you’re not a road transport worker we’d push for Safe Rates that we will never love to see you join in to demonstrate This year we will make our voices heard give up until we have achieved our goal. that all transport workers must be safe and we will leave no one in any doubt - on the job. not the politicians, the regulators, the The push for Safe Rates is simply about wealthy companies at the top or the fairness. Expect more protests at airports again general public - that we want change in this year, to highlight the race to the It is a solution not an ideology. It is a fight our industry. bottom in aviation. not a surrender. In March we will hold a national convoy Forced part-time work, low rates and It says transport operators and drivers which will traverse the bridges, highways casualisation must be combatted have the right to earn a living without and streets of our major capitals in a because these issues are also affecting being pushed into bankruptcy by wealthy show of strength and determination that safety and security in aviation. trucking has got to be made fairer and companies at the top which pay their safer. chief executives millions. This year will be an important time to set down a marker ahead of 2020 that our It says drivers have the right to be paid Perth will be among the cities leading demands for change will continue and for all the work they do and to be safe in the charge with trucks, vans and cars grow. travelling over its iconic bridges and their jobs. We will be loud and active and we will thoroughfares. It says all road users have the right not never give up the fight for better jobs in to be killed and injured on the roads from If you’re not already active on our Safe transport. Rates campaign, March is the time to join safety getting cut because of costs. in. There have been too many deaths, too many injuries, too many drivers pushed to work long hours and speed, and too many owner drivers who have gone out of business or teetered on the brink of going bust. Even if you work for a company which pays you well and has safe conditions, you can only be as safe on the road as those around you. What we need to do is lift standards right across the industry so that all drivers are safe at work and are paid a fair safe rate. To do this, to truly lift our voices, we need everyone on board. We need drivers and their supporters in our union to turn out on the day with Transport Workers Rally at Convoy in East Perth their kids, grandkids and other family July 2018 in support of Safe Rates members.
The Wheel Summer 2018 9 The Truth about Safe Rates SINCE THE RSRT WAS ABOLISHED IN 2016 A LOT OF STORIES HAVE BEEN TOLD. LET’S SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT!
From State Secretary & in a system that is there to make them safer and have a more sustainable National President TIM DAWSON future. 3 Object of the Act The object of this Act is to promote safety and fairness in the road transport industry by doing the following: The Road Safety Remuneration Act. We have a champion of the transport industry and all working men and (a) ensuring that road transport drivers do not have The piece of legislation that was remuneration related incentives to work in an unsafe governing pay of transport workers woman in Australia Senator Glenn manner; Sterle. (b) removing remuneration related incentives, was written in 2012. pressures and practices that contribute to unsafe That is right! It had Glenn is the Assistant work practices; ‘STOP screwing (c) ensuring that road transport drivers are paid for their been in place for Shadow Minister for work, including loading or unloading their vehicles 4 years before the Road Safety who is or waiting for someone else to load or unload their truckies & passionate about vehicles; Liberal Government (d) developing and applying reasonable and ripped it up. STOP the drive making sure we have enforceable standards throughout the road transport a safer transport industry supply chain to ensure the safety of road It’s true and we will all industry through Safe transport drivers; agree that the RSRO to the bottom’ (e) ensuring that hirers of road transport drivers and Rates legislation. participants in the supply chain take responsibility had its problems. for implementing and maintaining those standards; But instead of fixing these problems (f) facilitating access to dispute resolution procedures It is time for the truth to relating to remuneration and related conditions for the Turnball government of the day, road transport drivers. threw out a system that would have be told once more Division 2—Definitions made our industry safer and more The major misinformation about 4 Definitions of the Act sustainable. compellable person means any of the following: the RSRT was that it only covered (a) a road transport driver; This legislation came in years before Owner Drivers. (b) the employer or hirer of a road transport driver; the RSRO order was enacted and (c) a participant in the supply chain in relation to a since it was ripped up hundreds of This was either a deliberate lie or road transport driver, if the driver is involved in a these people didn’t want to read matter the Tribunal is dealing with small to medium sized business in the contractor driver means a road transport driver who is Transport Industry have gone broke. the Act. an independent contractor. independent contractor We continue to write in the Wheel The lie about it not covering all modern award means a modern is not confined award under the Fair about what should be done to improve truck drivers especially employed Work Act 2009. paid work means work for financial gain or reward our current state of affairs for truckies drivers is laid out in the Road (whether as an employee, a self employed person or either Owner Drivers or employed Safety Remuneration Act 2012. otherwise). drivers. There can be only one reason 6. Meaning of road transport driver (1) This section applies to an individual—individual (for the purposes We know what the solution is. for these lies is that they want of paragraph 5(a)) if: Stop screwing truckies AND Stop the to continue the drive to the (a) the individual engages in the road transport drive to the bottom. bottom by either cutting rates or industry by driving a vehicle to transport things by screwing drivers or maybe both. road; and The TWU motion that is now in the ALP (b) the individual does so: (i) as an employee of a constitutional corporation, platform agreed on at the National ALP The RSRT covered the Road the Commonwealth, a Commonwealth Conference in December last year will Transport and Distribution authority, a Territory or a Territory authority; or make Safe Rates law when Labor win industry, Long Distance oper- (ii) under a road transport contract the other party to which is a constitutional corporation, the the election this year. ations, Cash in Transit industry, Commonwealth, a Commonwealth authority, a Waste management industry Territory or a Territory authority; or The TWU want to make sure that the (iii) under a contract entered into in a Territory; or issues that we saw with the RSRO, Awards to name a few. (iv) under a contract at least one of the parties to that caused so much angst with owner which is an individual who is resident in, or a And it could have changed body corporate that has its principal place of drivers doesn’t happen this time. the game for thousands of business in, a Territory; or The TWU Australia-wide is putting transport workers. (v) for the purposes of a business undertaking of a constitutional corporation; or together committees of Owner drivers. I have copied in a number (vi) for the purposes of the Commonwealth, a Commonwealth authority, a Territory or a These committees will help advise of clauses form the Road Territory authority; or the ALP while in Opposition and when Safety Remuneration Act (vii) in the course of or in relation to constitutional trade or commerce. they win the election, when the ALP 2012 for those that are really (2) Without limiting its effect apart from this subsection, are in Government. interested in a safer transport subparagraph (1)(b)(ii) also has the effect it would have if the reference to a constitutional corporation were, by Transport Workers need to make sure industry to read. express provision, confined to a corporation that has that all truck drivers have confidence entered into the contract for the purposes of the business of that corporation. If you feel like reading more. Which is in your best interest. Don’t Let the Rate Cutters Visit: https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/C2014C00603 con you anymore
10 The Wheel Summer 2018 The Importance of Having Income Protection We can all relate to the stresses and strains of manual labour. But when you injure yourself, especially outside your workplace where you’re not covered by workers comp, the financial stresses and strains could be more burden than they’re worth. These are some stories from our members about the importance of having income protection.
Dylan was off work for 8 months after he I did rehab, visited neurosurgeons and broke his neck playing for his local footy physio. Now I’m a 100%. Bill of good club. health and back on the job. Plus I never missed a mortgage payment, didn’t This incident put Dylan in a full upper have to solely rely on my partners’ body brace for 3 months. income, and could still put food on the “For the first couple of months I needed table. full 24 hour care, showering and Which means that my mental health sleeping was a struggle” didn’t suffer in the process too. Working as a truckie at TNT, there Having income protection in our EBA is was no way I could have fulfilled my a credit to the work the union does at job with this kind of injury. our site. With help from my Delegate and the And the support I got from my Delegate, union, I was able to take out a claim for Mel Reid and TWU Organiser, Kari income protection. Pnacek, was felt 10 fold. I think the recovery was all that much speedier knowing my mortgage was still being paid while I was on the mend.
I rekon, if it weren’t for bad luck, I’d Stress can do terrible things to your have no luck at all. body and your mind-frame. My troubles started when I pinched a Two years later, I sustained a similar nerve in my elbow. The doctors said it injury to my right shoulder. The recovery was arthritic. And despite the incident of this incident took me literally 10 days happening at work, my employer denied short of 2 years. my application for workers comp. Again, the injury was not covered under Of course it put a strain on my arm, compo. But this time I had income and prevented me from doing my job protection. properly. And I can tell you the difference it made But unfortunately the biggest strain was to my stress levels and the recovery on my hip pocket. process was beyond comparison. Having the security of income protection Because at the time I didn’t have makes a difference to your body and income protection. mind. Recovery from this injury took me 1 year Having seen both sides of the coin, my to get back to work. And by the end of advice is that without income protection that year I was scraping the bottom of it can bury you. the barrel. You can either start campaigning your Don’t be caught high and dry. Look into workplace to sign up at your next It had my wife and I relying on a what your workplace conditions are.’ negotiations. single income. It had us redrawing on the mortgage and redrawing on our If you don’t have income protection Or get on board the no frills program investments. Any inheritance we had, as part of your EBA or conditions of offered by the TWU. we no longer had. It put more stress employment. It’ll be the best money you’ll ever spend. on me and aggravated the recovery process. For more information call 1300 881 464 or visit:www.twuwa.org.au/content/page/income-protection-cover.html
The Wheel Summer 2018 11 Centurion NW MICK KNOWLES NORTH WEST The Centurion north west agreement Centurion are out there ripping the REPORT was voted up in December. whole world off. This comes after an identical Centurion are using these workers to agreement was put to the employees, their advantage. and was voted down. Centurion are pinching work off other A single vote made the difference on companies doing the right thing, and both occasions. dragging our whole industry into a downward spiral. The agreement expired in June and Qube the membership has been bargaining This cannot be allowed to continue. ever since. So, we did something about it. CML BULK To give you an idea of just how shit the Our incredibly hard-working IR team agreement they were on was. made 21 undertakings that the Clerks Woodie Woodie These guys are getting paid 19% – Private Sector Award 2010 is more MORE on the agreement that has just beneficial than this agreement. been voted up than what they were And 27 undertakings that the Road getting paid before. EA Voted Up! Transport and Distribution Award AND YET this agreement still only puts 2010 is more beneficial than this Congratulations to the team who them a whisker in front of the award. agreement. all pulled together on getting this agreement up! It wasn’t an easy fight, but it was noble. TWU Workplace representative were able to stem the flow of casualization at a site where drivers were employed casuals for almost 5 years. Toll Energy Dampier WIN!! A very successful outcome for permanent, secure jobs. IT PAYS TO FIGHT FOR YOUR ENTITLEMENTS... And off the back of a majority support determination. The site is And the good hard-working TWU Credit to Toll for coughing up. more united than ever. members at Toll Energy in Dampier But more so credit to our strong TWU It’s not sheep-stations in regards know this well. Delegates for reading their agreements to the rate these guys are getting That is why when they noticed a thoroughly. paid. missing 2% increase in their wages they Being informed about what you are But that’s something we can work contacted me. entitled to is the second-best line together when the agreement Probably an innocent mistake, we are all of defense for a worker against any comes up for negotiation again in only human and shit happens. company. the next 18 months. But when a company has an opportunity Being part of your union is the first. As long as they stay united and to skim something off the top of you, don’t forget about what they can Unfortunately when Toll coughed up the they’re not going to knock it back. win when they work together, it cash, they forgot to break it down on should be another success story This particular 2% underpayment was pay records. in the coming months. missing from January 2013. We’re still in the process of cost Congrats again guys – you’ve set So our members were stoked when they checking what’s been paid. a standard in the north west. received their 2% and backpay to make Toll’s also been holding back on paying up for it. Just in time for Christmas too. And companies up here will start some first aid allowance entitlements. taking notice.
12 The Wheel Summer 2018 ‘Anything we can MI SWACO do to piss Centurion The drilling rigs and warehouse handlers of M-I off moving forward SWACO operating out of Karratha, Broome and Dampier voted their agreement up last month. Members we will!’ Backpay from July, 2% increases per year for a 2 year deal and overall kept all their conditions. at Karratha Of course the company tried to drag it out. AND an additional 12 undertakings and that the Road Transport (Long But the main thing is when everyone out there is Distance Operations) Award 2010 is trying to get their pound of flesh from you and you Port Hedland! more beneficial than this agreement. work and keep everything, it is a good result. Even blind Freddy can tell you that an This result would not have been possible without UNITED Enterprise Agreement is meant to be reps, Christian Rowston and Matt Bennett. better than the award. They both worked hard for their workmates WE WIN! This won’t pass the BOOT test – and interests and deserve a pat on the back. if it does I will lose all faith I have left Thanks for your assistance fellas and congrats on in this country’s industrial relations a job well done. system. But more than that the way I see it, Anything we can do to piss Centurion off moving forward – we will.
Toll Energy Dampier WIN!! IT PAYS TO FIGHT FOR YOUR ENTITLEMENTS...
A review is in process and it is only PORT HEDLAND through the pressure union members and Delegates are putting on the company are we getting the favourable results your union is pushing for. Watch this space. We expect more win stories coming out of Toll Dampier.
Watch this space! We expect more wins coming out of here!
KARRATHA
The Wheel Summer 2018 13 Lead Organiser JASON WALTERS They came close to Round walking out the gate Up at Hanson Quarry The Hanson Quarry guys managed to On top of that we’re still currently in the wrangle a deal out of their employer. ‘Instead the workers process of negotiating the Tippers and Tankers agreement with Hanson. But came close to walking out the gate. walked away with The main sticking points the drivers are In fact, they were 2 days away from a 24 working toward include; hour stoppage until the following offer a good deal’ came to the table: 1. Current practice of start and finishing times written into the • 2% each year for a 2 year agreement agreement Except an opportunity to miss 24 hours • Back paid to expiry of old agreement of work. 2. Maintaining the status quo for RDO procedure • $500 sign on bonus Which inevitably got the company to • Guaranteed payment of Bonus worth fold, and Hanson Quarry workers walked These guys are willing to fight for these almost $1500 away with a great deal. too, so stay tuned. It was a fair result, and the most important The agreement is currently in the process Could be an interesting year at Hanson. part of the deal was that the guys didn’t of going out to vote. lose anything. Time for Centurion to Listen The agreement centurion at Hazelmere Says Lead Organiser Factoring in Super, Personal Leave, is trying to get their workforce to accept Annual leave, long Service Leave and if JASON WALTERS just got voted down for a third time. years of service exceed 4 years. Members at the site refuse to accept a But if you do the math that same Three No Votes makes it pretty clear pay reduction and be responsible for employee after 4 years will be that the union has numbers. the race to the bottom. $7,180.27 worse off than on the current agreement. It means the workforce want a real offer This agreement offers drivers who on the table. haven’t been working there very long a Even with the 2% pay increase in year 2 And the workers will not stand for $3,500 bribe to take the agreement as of the EBA, workers will still be a LONG Centurion’s dirty tactics. it stands. WAY BEHIND where they are now.
14 The Wheel Summer 2018 Linfox Hazelmere members Unite over Management’s Nit-picking
Branch Secretary Tim Dawson and Lead Organiser Jason Walters with the troops at Linfox Hazelmere
Management at Linfox Hazelmere will We know that if we let this go, this regime need to have a big say in what is safe try anything to ride roughshod over their will continue and it is likely to get worse. and what isn’t. staff. That is why workers are uniting and On that note the TWU encourages all Recently they have tried to take away joining the TWU in droves. our members to make sure you have a members’ paid breaks. Led by great delegates and strong fair representation of Health and safety They’ve told workers they can’t talk to activist members are starting to have reps that are fully trained and prepared each other for more than 1 minute. wins across the site. to stand up to unsafe work practices. And they must turn off their music and Members have also started to get active If you feel uncomfortable in your work tuck their shirts in. in the Health and safety space with a raft environment you have the right to refuse. of new HSR’s being elected and trained. Who would have thought that hard Safety is serious business and can be working transport workers would have Members at Linfox across all sites value the difference between life and death. untucked shirts from time to time? their safety and have realised that they THIRSTY WORK The daily heroes that deliver for the Carlton United Breweries (CUB) contract from SCT recently reached a deal on their new agreement. These guys were asking for a fair and Rounding the crew up at the SCT CUB site decent wage for the fair and decent work they do. They won 2.5% + 2.5% + 3% wage Which will lead to more secure jobs These guys only have the best increases over the next 3 years. overall. intentions for their workmates and fought hard to keep good conditions Fully back paid to the expiry of their Credit to the hard work of the TWU old agreement from June 2018. Bargaining team John Baradziej, Kim in this yard. Evans and Darren Appel for all the The biggest win was getting some Well done team, it was a pleasure! long hours they put into getting this better provisions around casual agreement up. conversion written into the agreement.
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16 The Wheel Summer 2018 JOB INTERVIEW
While taking the interview, the employer asked the candidate: Employer: So, how long did you work Where there’s a will there’s a way during you’re last job? Candidate: 30 years An old farmer wrote a letter to his innocent son in prison: Employer: oh, you look young how old “This year I’m unable to plant potatoes because I can’t dig the ground. are you I know if you were here you would’ve helped me” The Son wrote back to his dad: “You idiot, don’t dig the ground, that’s Candidate: 20 years old where I’ve hidden all the guns.” The employer was surprised and asked Police read the letter, next day the ground was dug by the police, the candidate how she worked 30 years searched for guns, but nothing was found. and has only been living for 20 years?? Son wrote again: “now plant your potatoes dad, it’s the best I could Candidate: Overtime! do from here.”
HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
SURVEY Ageing FIRED UP! A worldwide survey was conducted by the A gal comes in for her interview with the UN. The only question asked was: “Would Human-beings human resources department of a large you please give your honest opinion about get rich as they company and hands the executive her solutions to the food shortage in the rest of grow old: application. As the executive begins to the world?” The survey was a huge failure. Silver in Hair; scan her resume, he notices that she has In Africa they didn’t know what “food” meant. Gold in Teeth; been fired from every job she’s ever held. Sugar in Blood; In Eastern Europe they didn’t know what “I must say,” says the executive, “your Precious Stones “honest” meant. In Western Europe they work history is terrible. You’ve been fired in Kidney; didn’t know what “shortage” meant. In China from every job.” “Yes,” says the lady. they didn’t know what “opinion” meant. And a never ending supply of “Well,” continues the executive, “there’s In the Middle East they didn’t know what Gas! not much positive in that.” “Well, “ says “solution” meant. In South America they didn’t the woman as she pokes the application. know what “please” meant. And in the USA “At least I’m not a quitter!” they didn’t know what “the rest of the world” meant.
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Fair-dinkum, honest, Militant, bullying union hardworking Australians thugs prepared to disrupt who deserve tax relief to and damage businesses to Bus Replacement help pay the bills.. demand a pay rise... I tried to get to work by train this morning, they said “Today there is a Bus replacement service” So I gave them a tin of pineapple chunks. They said “What’s that?” I said “That’s my money replacement service.”
The Wheel Summer 2018 17 Perth Bus Drivers Fight for Secure Employment! Our bus drivers working for contractor Transdev continue their pursuit for parity with other WA Bus contracts. Our WA State Labor Government can no longer take a backseat in this dispute.
Report from MARK BYDDER & KARI PNACEK
Transdev bus drivers of Perth have been taking industrial action since October 2018. Drivers are fighting for respect, job security, a decent wage and parity with the other bus drivers in Perth. Transdev is a French multinational company profiting 10 billion worldwide and 36 million in Australasia. In Perth they hold contracts that extend over the next 9 years and total 42% of bus contract areas. Drivers are fighting Before the Labor government was elected, then Shadow Minister Rita for Respect, job Saffiotti made commitments that she would make bus drivers safe at work. security, a decent The TWU campaigned for Labor on this promise. wage & parity with Yet the government has done nothing to other Perth support these workers. Even to this day, nothing has been done. bus drivers In fact, an article published in PerthNow on 18 November 2018, reported that Transdev took industrial action against over the last 12 months on the bus Drivers and stood drivers down for 48 network, altercations have increased hours, to no response. by 50%, antisocial behaviour 22%, and A response did come from the dangerous behaviour 16%, just to name Government, 30 minutes after the a few. 4-hour work stoppage that would In that article PTA, said “antisocial have disrupted bus services to the behaviour and violence was a societal Taylor Swift concert was withdrawn. issue, not a public transport issue.” Drivers were sympathetic to the And Minister Saffiotti stated “Transperth families who saved for tickets. This was a slap in the face to 1000 has undertaken further driver safety Sympathetic to the kids who were Transdev drivers who supported this protection training, passenger de- attending a once in a lifetime Government in the last election. escalation training and upgraded on- opportunity. board CCTV.” Which is completely Since then Minister Saffioti has met And withdrew the action on a promise untrue! with drivers on 2 occasions. that the Government would come to the TWU members talked to Minister Saffiotti table. We hoped this would lead to a Once after the Taylor Swift concert about equal conditions for all WA bus swift outcome. and a second time after Bus Drivers drivers 12 months ago, to no response. rallied outside Dumas House. But instead this response came in the 5 months ago they met with Rita’s form of Premier McGowan posting a On both occasions the Government staff, telling them that industrial action video of himself playing a Taylor Swift disrupted the drivers and led them to was imminent and to intervene, to no record and encouraging people to plan believe there would be something in it for response. their travel via Transperth website. them.
18 The Wheel SummerSummer 20182018 Perth Bus Drivers Fight for Secure Employment! Our bus drivers working for contractor Transdev continue their pursuit for parity with other WA Bus contracts. Our WA State Labor Government can no longer take a backseat in this dispute.
Support for Transdev bus drivers has been coming from all walks of the union movement. The people of WA are behind you guys! Keep up the Fight!
So far, not the case. Which is a shame. So Bus Drivers continue to apply the Especially when strong Labor ‘Strong Labor pressure. governments in QLD and Victoria, have recently supported their bus drivers, Sending hundreds of individual e-mails Governments in Qld including Transdev drivers, in their to the Government and delivering the struggle for parity. petition with 1000’s of signatures to & NSW have recently them. Holding true to their Labor values of unionism, and supporting working supported their bus Transport Minister Rita Saffiotti needs families. It is time that our State Labor to step in to resolve this and not take Government does the same for its Bus drivers holding true a backseat thinking that it’ll work out drivers in WA and for all blue collar without Government intervention. workers. to their Labor values This Government has even extended We would also like to thank contributions the Transdev held contract of Joondalup of unionism & that have been made to the Transdev for the 3rd time, supporting an unethical strike fund, supporting members through company and reducing the leverage of workers rights’ this difficult time. In particular the CFMEU working people. WA Branch for their generous donation.
The Wheel SummerSummer 20182018 1919 A FEW BAD APPLES An open letter from our Branch President & Vice President RAY ‘MACCA’ McMILLAN & JOHN ‘JD’ DAVIS
After the slanderous lies that were seen during our Not once has your union leadership EVER shied branch elections. John & I thought it important away from answering to put pen to paper & clear some stuff up. the tough questions that members ask us. Union Elections are meant to be taken And that’s why these people don’t work seriously. at the Branch anymore. The current leadership of our union has They activate our membership in the Simple as that. an ongoing record of open, transparent name of democracy. communication and accountability that But unfortunately these disgruntled extends to accessibility. And give our members a voice when employees hijacked the last election for it comes to the leadership of our great their own selfish gain. We are always available to you and we union. have a strong track record of fighting for So John and I thought we’d put pen to our membership. Unfortunately this last election was paper and clear up some of the untruths marred by a group of disgruntled ex- that were spread. When it was discovered that money employees, a few bad apples. had been misappropriated, we ordered First of all, Tim Dawson was NEVER an independent internal investigation Who, misled the membership by being investigated by ROC or AEC. into the Branch that’s when the wrong- throwing mud and fabricating a story This was a blatant lie. doers were dealt with and Tim became based on lies that undermined an Secondly, Ferguson, who was originally Secretary. election that should be based on the running for Secretary, had been spirit of democracy. The report from the Royal Commission bludging on the membership, neglecting commended the Branch officials for These are the same employees that to pay his union dues, before paying promptly and appropriately dealing with were sacked because union members 3 years’ worth of his dues, 2 months misappropriation of member’s money demanded these people be let go. before election nominations closed. and ruled the current leadership had They were not representing member’s Highlighting his incompetence, nothing to answer to, praising the TWU interests. Ferguson had no understanding of for the way it handled the wrong-doing. union rules and if he did he would have And their selfishness and sense of The Royal Commission acknowledging realised he was ineligible to run as entitlement was their down fall. the steps taken by the current Secretary. leadership led by Tim Dawson saying It goes against the unionist values John Ferguson is a failed Secretary of in its report, the TWU “demonstrated and I stand for and it’s not the kind of the Meat Workers Union. His own commitment in ensuring high standards union Tim Dawson, our current Branch membership voted him out as their of conduct by its offices and proper use Secretary stands for neither. Secretary because of his incompetence. of Union Funds”.
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20 The Wheel Summer 2018 A FEW BAD APPLES Collapse of An open letter from our Branch President & Vice President RAY ‘MACCA’ McMILLAN & JOHN ‘JD’ DAVIS Redstar Governance standards and auditing procedures were implemented at the Branch that changed the accountabilities 400 drivers are out of work, as Transport company RedStar went of the officials, which will ensure these into liquidation just days before Christmas last year. turbulent times never happen again. Workers got the call that they were made redundant “effective As far as I’m concerned, it’s water under immediately”. the bridge. It’s only Ferguson who keeps playing the Royal Commission card. A And many reports came from truck drivers being told to leave their card that was dealt the same time he trucks at their destinations and find their own way home. was working at the Branch. Redstar’s collapse underlines an urgent need for regulation to We look towards your future protect the interests of the drivers and to prevent the downward spiral of our trucking industry. with a vision for the future Redstar did not even have enough funds to appoint a liquidator but of Transport Workers. transport operator Toll and ANZ bank pledged to cover the costs of Something the other mob simply their services revealed liquidator Price Waterhouse Coopers (PwC). couldn’t do was talk about what the PwC will be tasked with making sure the entitlements of these 400 future means for transport workers. employees are calculated and paid by FEG as soon as possible. Our team could. We have direction and a vision for the future of the transport industry and what the future means for transport workers. ‘There is some clear uncertainty It means: training and development for delegates that builds power for transport in our industry which highlights workers. It means: working toward a more the urgent need for regulation’ sustainable industry, through 2020 and into 2035. It means: If we have to shut down every The Transport Workers’ Union has urged the Federal Government moving object, anything with Wheels, to expedite the affected drivers’ claims of lost pay and entitlements, on the road or in the air, to get the the due process of which is now in progress. big businesses to listen, we’re coming Toll, Linfox, ACFS and Freight Assist Australia have offered to come for ya. to the aid of the ex-Redstar employees. Your union has a plan and under this leadership is headed in the right Offering the 400 employees work, but no certainty as the industry direction. continues to operate in a squeeze from the top. TWU members were not fooled by the If we aren’t holding wealthy clients, retailers, mining giants or lies they saw. the Government to account on prices the race to the bottom will What we see every day that is Tim continue. Dawson and your Union working hard And simply we as an industry cannot keep it going in this direction. for TWU members. What is the fix? We wish to thank you for your ongoing support. Join your union, encourage others to join their union and let’s put Cheers, pressure on those at the top who hoard the Nation’s wealth. Ray “Maca” McMillan and John Davis It’s up to us. It’s up to you to hold them to account and make them know we care.
The Wheel Summer 2018 21 supporting the twu sykes transport local & long distance General Freight
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22 The Wheel Summer 2018 Under the Weather Little Johnny’s parents decided to have their son circumcised. After a few days of recovery, Little Johnny returns to school. An hour or so after homeroom, the pain is really starting to bother him and he asks Miss Jones if he can go see the school nurse. Seeing that Little Johnny is in obvious pain, Miss Jones allows him to go. Immediately, the nurse suggest that Little Johnny call his mother to see if she will OFFENSIVE come and get him. The nurse politely waits in the other room while he makes the call. LANGUAGE A few minutes pass, and Little Johnny exits the room and starts walking back to class. The nurse can’t help but notice that Little Johnny’s penis is hanging out of his trousers. Obviously concerned, the nurse asks, “Little Johnny, what are you doing? You can’t walk around like that!” “Well,” he replies, “I told my Mum how much it hurt and she said if I could just stick it out ‘til lunch time…she’s come pick me up then.”
Duck Tape Sex An old man is sitting on his front porch one morning, enjoying the weather and having a cup of coffee. Therapy A couple, both age 78, Suddenly he sees a young boy walking down went to a sex therapist’s the road carrying several rolls of duct tape. This office. The doctor asked, obviously makes him curious so he calls out, “hey “What can I do for you?” son, what are you doing with all that duct tape?” The little boy replies, “I’m going to catch some ducks The man said, “Will you sir!” The old man chuckles and calls out, “son don’t watch us have sex?” be silly. You can’t catch ducks with duct tape!” The The doctor looked puzzled, little boy just smiles and yells “well I’m gonna try.” but agreed. Several hours pass and the old man is out in his When the couple finished, yard when the little boy walks past him dragging a the doctor said, “There’s whole bunch of ducks. The old man just scratches nothing wrong with the his head and go’s about his business. way you have sex,” and STOPPED BY charged them $50. The next morning the old man is having his morning POLICE AT 2am coffee on the porch as usual and the little boy This happened several comes walking down the road. As he gets closer the weeks in a row. The An elderly man was old man notices he is carrying a bunch of chicken couple would make an stopped by the police wire. He wonders what the lad is up to so he calls appointment, have sex around 2am and was out “excuse me young man! What’s all that chicken with no problems, pay the asked where he was going wire for?” The little boy calls out “I’m going to catch doctor, then leave. at that time of night. me some chickens!” The old man scoffs and says Finally, the doctor asked, The man replied, “son that’s not what chicken wire is for! You’re not “Just exactly what are you I’m on my way to a lecture gonna get any chickens with that!” The young boy trying to find out?” happily crys out “well I’m gonna try!” about alcohol abuse and “We’re not trying to find the effects it has on the Later that day the old man notices the boy walking out anything,” the husband human body, as well as down the road dragging several chickens. He replied. smoking and staying out shakes his head and says, “well I’ll be damned”. late.” “She’s married and we A few days later the old man is on his porch, having can’t go to her house. I’m The officer then asked, his morning coffee when the same little boy comes married and we can’t go to “Really?” Who’s giving running down the road carrying a bundle of sticks. my house. The Holiday Inn that lecture at this time of The old man wonders what this is all about so he charges $90. The Hilton night?” calls out “hey son! What do you got there?” The charges $108. We do it little boy yells back, “pussy willows sir!” The old man here for $50...and I get $43 The man replied, “That stands up and says “wait up, let me grab my hat”. back from Medicare. would be my wife.”
The Wheel Summer 2018 23 Dyed in the Wool
Salt of the Earth
TIM DAWSON Reports Our TWU vets may have retired from the workforce, but they haven’t retired from life. And continue to fight to protect conditions for the next generation!
An invite was extended November last year to our list of retired Let’s be honest, the conditions we are fighting to protect today members to attend a Christmas celebration for our Veterans are the ones these Veterans won all those years ago. program. Our Veterans know that and want to continue to fight to protect Our TWU Vets have served on average between 25 and 50 years what they’ve won for their grandkids when they enter the in the transport industry. These are the dyed in the wool, salt of workplace in the future. the earth unionists have carried Australia through the good times I say to our retired members: You may have retired from work, and bad. but you have not retired from life. They are a pleasure to catch up with and enjoy sharing a story Your TWU still needs you! from the old times. To find out about TWU Vets meetings, upcoming actions and Your TWU put together a Veterans program in the middle of 2016 rallies keep informed via email or call the office and ensure and it has been building from strength to strength. you’re on our mailing list. We host a catch up at least 3 times a year and call on our Vets for campaigns and rallies throughout the year.
Some photos of the Veterans Christmas dinner - celebrating all they have worked to achieve for us
24 The Wheel Summer 2018 Five Resolutions IR Recap for a Richer 2018 at a Glance NEW YEAR! Report from JOEL CLARKE
The New Year is a chance to turn INDUSTRIAL & SUPERANNUATION OFFICER a new leaf, break old habits and Happy New Year’s folks! I’m still wondering what happened start fresh ones – and setting a few to last year, 2018 was a huge year in the TWU WA office and financial resolutions can add wealth there’s sure to be more fun in store for 2019! and prosperity to your 2019. I’ve put together a little recap of 2018 from the legal eagles at the 1. Grow some savings TWU office. This is a summary of 2018: We had 34 Unfair dismissals cases referred to IR dept. Most of We’d all like to have more money in the which were settled with strong outcomes. bank, and building savings is a lot easier Financially speaking our department was able to win back $165k when we set a clear target, like $50 altogether. A figure that comprises of settlements, wage claims, each week. Next, open a dedicated high negotiated redundancies. And that’s just internally. interest savings account to give your savings the benefit of healthy interest We refer claims to our lawyers at Slater & Gordan and they’ve reported that in the last 2 years combined, we’ve won back returns. almost close to $5 million for our members. 2. Maximise returns on cash A really fantastic financial result and a real indication of why it If you have some savings tucked away, PAYS to be union. review the rates you’re currently earning We took 12 applications for Protected Action to the Fair Work to be sure you’re getting the best return Commission. 10 which had great outcomes for our members and possible. Some banks are paying Protected Action which has been taken against Transdev and competitive rates term deposits and Broadspectrum. some require as little as $1,000 to earn We’re still pursuing annual leave entitlements for casual FIFO the top rate. employees following landmark WorkPac Pty Ltd v Skene [2018] FCAFC 131. 3. Reduce card debt And recovered unpaid invoices through the Road Freight Industry Credit cards are one of the most Tribunal for Owner Drivers. expensive types of credit available with These are just some of the many outcomes our team at the office rates topping 20% p.a. on some cards. manage. Switching your balance to a low rate card Most cases are generally issued a deed of settlement, so like could see you save in interest in the confidentiality agreements restrict us from publishing names and first year alone. companies. 4. Give your home loan a check up But rest assure in the fact that your union is fighting for working people like yourselves every day. A home loan is one of the biggest financial commitments we can take on. And being and remaining a financial member ensures that when So it makes sense to review it at the start you ever require our services, your union will go into bat for you. of each year to check that you’re still getting great value for money. 5. Streamline debt If you’re struggling to keep track of your debts streamline your debt by folding the lot into a single personal loan. It means less paperwork, one monthly repayment, and with a low rate you have opportunities to save.
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The Wheel Summer 2018 25 Know the LAW You are entitled to accrue annual leave while on workers comp. Below are 2 stories from members who have recently been assisted by their union, the TWU in recouperating annual leave owed to them Bronwyn Edwards Stephen Leonard from Mark Bydder from Adam Dziecol
Transdev is now in the Stephen Leonard had been working for Centurion Transport as process of (back paying) a long-distance truck driver for many years. a substantial amount of In early 2017 Steve suffered an injury at word as a result of employee’s annual leave which he had a significant amount of time off work. after a win by your union. Steve was not able to return to truck driving work and he Bronwyn Edwards drives resigned from his employment with Centurion in late 2017. buses for a living, working out of Mandurah depot for When Steve went through his pay slips he noticed that he had Transdev. not been paid all of the annual leave that was owed to him by Centurion Transport. Bronwyn sustained an injury while on the job As he was a member of the TWU, Steve contacted the Union and had been on workers about his issues with his former employer. comp for a number of Steve therefore contacted the TWU. TWU Legal Officer, Adam months, and during that Dzieciol met with Steve, reviewed the information that Steve had time Bronwyn was advised provided and confirmed that he had been underpaid, slightly, in by the company that she several pay periods, that he had not been paid annual leave on was not entitled to accrue Bronwyn speaks to other Transdev drivers termination, and also, that he had not accrued any annual leave annual leave during the during the time that he was off work as a result of his injury. time she was off work. about her injury Adam wrote a letter to Centurion Transport on Steve’s behalf Bronwyn and I had about the above matters. been chatting when she mentioned that she had to cut her annual leave short After receiving the letter from the TWU, Centurion acknowledged because she had not been accruing the leave. that Steve had not been paid nearly two weeks of accrued annual leave entitlements and the company paid Steve the I knew immediately this was not correct, which meant that money that was owed to him for the accrued annual leave. Bronwyn was entitled to the annual leave accrual due to a ruling about this issue in 2015. I therefore, raised the matter As well, after some further exchanges Centurion Transport also with the employer, Transdev. The company acknowledged agreed to pay Steve the monies that he had been underpaid in that Bronwyn should have been accruing annual leave while several pay periods. she was off work on workers’ compensation, and they have The matter of Steve’s entitlement to be paid for the annual leave credited her with more than 80 hours annual leave. in relation to the time he had off work due to injury proved to be Transdev has also credited a significant number of other a bit more difficult. drivers with annual leave which the drivers should have However, eventually, the Union was able to persuade Centurion accrued during periods that they were off work on workers’ Transport that Steve did in fact accrue annual leave during the compensation, going back several years. time that he was off work due as a result of the work injury and “This is why it pays to be a TWU member.” Said Bronwyn. he was being paid workers’ compensation during that time. The company paid Steve nearly four weeks of additional “If it wasn’t for that conversation with Mark, I and hundreds annual leave for the time that he was off work on workers’ of other Transdev drivers would be none the wiser. This compensation. goes to show the employer doesn’t always know what they are doing and are only interested in their own profit margins” All up the TWU was able to get Steve a total of some $6,900.00
26 The Wheel Summer 2018 Qubes’ funny business will cost them dearly
Qube Picton are up for the Fight!
Mark Bydder This offer went to vote and the Qube initially took membership said NO WAY! With a Last edition of the Wheel I reported resounding 70% of the vote. back about current bargaining away all these Qube’s funny business has cost underway with the Giacci Bros Qube them dearly with the workers filing agreement. workers conditions for protected action. This agreement covers the workers then gave everything And the company continues to of Picton, Kwinana, Muchea and cry poor, even after Qube won Geraldton sites. back & tried to sell it the Westpine contract from K&S, Alongside some really dedicated undercutting the contract by 10%. Delegates we’ve been bargaining as a good deal TWU members at Qube will not be this agreement with Qube for 6 months now. fooled with this race to the bottom in our industry. The company has tried some crafty Then Qube had the nerve to give things to sneak an agreement back everything they had taken Members are willing to do what it through that doesn’t give the guys a away, and tried to sell it to the takes to get what they deserve and whole-lot. workforce as a good deal. we’re right beside them all the way. Qube initially tried taking away Crafty bastards. working conditions which workers But TWU Delegates at fought back hard to keep. the bargaining table are craftier. And called the company out! Forcing their hand to offer more. Qube came back with a 2.25% per year, 3 year agreement, without any back pay to expiry of agreement.
The Wheel Summer 2018 27 TWU Owner Driver Guideline Rates Based on Vehicles 5 YEARS OLD & Diesel Price Averages in December 2018 RATES METROPOLITAN REGIONAL NORTH WEST Based on diesel fuel cost of Based on diesel fuel cost of Based on diesel fuel cost of January 2019 150.2c per litre (inc GST) 155.7c per litre (inc GST) 167.4c per litre (inc GST)
VEHICLES 5 YEARS OLD One Driver One Driver One Driver
Hourly rate Hourly rate Rate per km Hourly rate Rate per km Heavy Vehicle Type (exc GST) (exc GST) (exc GST) (exc GST) (exc GST) 5 Tonne GVM $57.06 $80.30 $1.21 $81.93 $1.24 (rigid truck, 2 axles) 8 tonne GVM $59.18 $81.27 $1.23 $82.89 $1.25 (rigid truck, 2 axles) 15 tonne GVM $67.08 $91.20 $1.38 $92.82 $1.40 (rigid truck, 2 axles) 22.5 tonne GVM $73.97 $102.78 $1.55 $104.76 $1.58 (rigid truck, 2 axles) Prime mover (haulier) $78.23 $111.88 $1.69 $114.84 $1.73 2 axles, 31.5 tonne GVM
Prime mover (haulier) 3 axles, 1 trailer $83.75 $118.98 $1.79 $122.29 $1.84 42.5 tonne GVM
Pocket road train (haulier) $97.74 $143.68 $2.17 $148.48 $2.24 79 tonne GVM Prime mover (haulier) 3 axles, 2 trailers $97.73 $143.68 $2.17 $148.48 $2.24 79 tonne GVM
Prime mover (haulier) 3 axles, 3 trailers $156.89 $2.37 $162.74 $2.46 122.5 tonne GVM
Prime mover + 1 trailer $92.84 $136.54 $4.11 $139.85 $4.22 42.5 tonne GVM Prime mover + 2 trailers $112.56 $166.13 $5.01 $170.92 $5.15 79 tonne GVM Prime mover + 3 trailers $183.89 $5.53 $189.74 $5.71 122.5 tonne GVM B-Double $113.18 $170.17 $5.13 $174.54 $5.25 62.5 tonne GVM Please Note ● The above rates have been derived from a comprehensive schedule The TWU maintains that the Guideline Rates in the above schedule are of Owner Driver costings compiled by an independant consultant the minimum payments for running a safe and sustainable owner truck ● They are based on vehicles that are 5+years old. driver operation. The TWU will assist owner-driver members in ● The Regional Hauler rates are for all kilometres travelled on a negotiating appropriate safe and sustainable rates RETURN TRIP. with prime contractors & hirers. ● The Regional Full-Rigger rates are based on a ONE WAY TRIP Authorised by Branch Secretary Tim Dawson TWU WA 1800 657 477 [email protected]
28 The Wheel Summer 2018 Securing their Future
The tough workers from Armaguard Road crew have WRIGGLE ROOM AT RAND Negotiations at Rand have employment differ significantly. had a series of wins in their swung around again. The Rand agreement is the And this time the crew are best because it pays penalties. negotiations so far. But are asking for ‘freedom to move’ in their log of claims. But new workers aren’t offered employment under the Rand taking protective See, their parent company, agreement. AHG, was supposed to be action to secure selling their refrigerated They’re usually recruited transport companies, which through Scotts or Harris that their futures. include Rand, Harris and pay less than Rand. Scotts to Chinese owned HNA However, Rand is only better says JOHN CUTRALI Group. when you’re working a 9.5 The same HNA that owns hour day, because you’re At the time of writing a protected action ballot was Aerocare through links to getting overtime. being lodged for Armaguard road crew. Swissport and owns a number If you’re only working a 38 of stakes in other companies These guys have been in talks with their company hour week, you’re better off like Virgin Australia. over their agreement for quite some time. under Scotts or Harris. Big conglomerates that can Since their last stab at protected action to get the Thus the freedom to move afford a $400 million deal. company to move. clause. But turns out they couldn’t and A revised offer was put to the employees. Transport Workers could have HNA Group backed out of the rosters that would suit them, deal. Which included a reduced probationary rate for new and both the worker and the starters and they’ll get paid the award + 10%. So its business as usual for the company would get the best Which is essentially a $4-5 pay cut overall. guys. of both worlds. Our members aren’t happy. But this ‘freedom to move’ That’s what we think anyways. clause might shake some Updates to come as This comes after the transport workers won their things up. Meal on Road dispute with the company. negotiations steam ahead. You see, between the 3 The company was going to refuse to pay them for companies, the conditions of taking breaks. Rand drivers are looking forward to some room to Until they decided that if that was the case, they’d move! drive back to the depot to eat their meals – rather than have them on the road. Make sense. But the company didn’t like it. So now they’re getting paid for taking meal breaks. Keep standing up guys – the pressure you’re putting on the company is moving them. Stay tuned for updates to come.
The Wheel Summer 2018 29 Broadspectrum CS & CS Unprotected Industrial Action? Flying Kangaroo WE DO NOT THINK SO GLEN BARRON’S This is an example of how Aviation Grounds Volunteer Plan the ‘Fair Work’ Act falls Report well short of ‘FAIR’ Says our Legal Advisor ADAM DZIECIOL
The struggle by TWU members Therefore, in October 2018, after the employed by Broadspectrum in the suspension period had expired, the WA Court Security and Custodial TWU gave notice to Broadspectrum Services (CS&CS) has been a long that the CS&CS members will indeed one, and still the saga continues. take industrial action. It is one that has included constant Broadspectrum then applied to the appeals by the company to the Fair Commission for an order that the Work Commission against the workers industrial action not proceed as it was and the Fair Work Commission has supposedly “unprotected” industrial not been particularly helpful in these action. matters. After a hearing on this The FWC taking a ‘The FWC taking matter the Fair Work legalistic rather than an Commission agreed “industrial” approach to a legalistic rather with the company, the powers that it has and made an order to stop lawful industrial than ‘industrial’ that the proposed action by employees, industrial action must and granting orders approach to the not go ahead. sought by the company The TWU has lodged to stop the members powers that it has.’ an appeal against that from taking industrial order, and the appeal action. will be heard in February 2019. One recent example of this was Your union is pursuing the appeal a decision by the Commission in because we consider that the decision October 2018 that proposed industrial was legally wrong, as the Commission GARBO action by CS&CS members was not member did not follow a decision “protected industrial action”. on this point by a Full Bench of the On 10 August 2018 the Commission Commission, and also, that it is VIGILANTE made an order suspending proposed inconsistent with the scheme of the industrial action by the CS&CS Fair Work Act in relation to protected members until 13 October 2018. industrial action generally. Christmas time is the busiest time of the year for Garbos. However, the effect of the suspension It is these kinds of decisions made is that it suspended all other industrial by a tribunal which is supposed to be It is also the time of the year when we action by the employees, whether about fairness, that make it clear that appreciate them the most. Our bins are full and bin days are thrown off by the or not the industrial action was the industrial rules in this country need public holiday. So it’s a sigh of relief specifically mentioned in the order. to change. when your trash finally gets collected. The Fair Work Act provides that It’s time to change the rules. Martin Sheaf has been a Garbo for more when a period of suspension ends than 6 years, collecting bins throughout We will keep you posted about the the employees can once again take Victoria Park. outcome of this appeal. protected industrial action without the “The route is generally good. It’s cruisy. need to have another protected action ballot.
30 The Wheel Summer 2018 Flying Kangaroo Grounds Volunteer Plan The Power of the union movement put Alan ‘Joyces’ plan of workers working for free over Christmas to Bed!
Prior to Christmas, Qantas put a callout This program would have had the Meanwhile, the number of staff at the to their employees to volunteer for effect of indirectly pressuring workers kiosk would be 12 rather than eight and unpaid work over the peak Christmas- that want to impress their employer increased to 18 during peak periods. New Year travel period. into volunteering, which could take This was a great win by the collective work that would have otherwise been Naturally, this caused a huge backlash union movement. And serves to show available to a paid employee. from unions ASU and TWU and the what we’re capable of when we stick broader community. No wonder Qantas faced a huge together, and call out wage theft when backlash on social media over the memo we see it. The flying Kangaroo had asked their calling for volunteers which attracted staff to “volunteer” by “lending a hand” Qantas still intends to hold employee’s worldwide coverage in mainstream to frontline staff during December and bonuses to ransom. media, ranging from Fox News in the January. US to the UK’s Daily Mail and the South After claiming they would “reward This is a time where a significant amount China Morning Post. workers for their contribution” of pressure is placed on frontline staff. So thanks to the community and union CEO Alan Joyce promised the Because it is a time where thousands of pressure Qantas has backed down on workforce bonuses of $2,500 each. people are travelling to see loved ones. the program. But only until the workers finalise their It’s also a time when Qantas jacks up Instead Qantas limited the volunteer agreements and do so without doing their prices and price gouges people program strictly to employees ranked at anything that harms the company prior travelling to see loved ones. Senior Executives Grade 5 and above to reaching an agreement. – managers, middle management and Go figure. And all this from a company that executives and that participation will be reported a profit in excess of $1 billion capped at 50 people. last financial year.
As long as you start early, you finish the little shits. “oi” I said and Marty said after the incident early and nobody bothers you” scared them off a bit. he’s not expecting any permanent damage, “I enjoy my work” – said Marty. I spoke to the old couple though since the incident and they were shaken, But on Saturday 29 December, 4 days his left eye still hasn’t but thankful that someone come good yet. after Christmas, Marty’s route was all had stepped in. but cruisy. We take our hat off to As I got back into the Marty who put his own “Christmas time is playing catch up cab and closed the door for Garbos” said Martin “The Friday y safety aside and had the a brick came through my guts to step in. becomes our Friday.” window. So it’s a hectic time of year. He’s a real hero in our It shattered the window and books. The local Garbo, under- You see a fair bit of shit in this job, bounced off my head. appreciated and over worked. but it’s not usual that you see three I didn’t realise the kids had a knife on As this Wheel goes to print, they’ve yet 20 something year olds threatening a them as well until someone pointed it out. 70-year-old man. to catch the mongrels. Pretty terrifying experience to be But they have dash cam footage and That’s when something kicks in and you honest. can’t just do nothing” police are still trying to track them down. If I were to do it again I wouldn’t have I couldn’t sit idly by and watch it happen. gone at it alone. There were 3 of them I jumped out of the cab and approached and only one of me.
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DISCLAIMER: All articles in this magazine are published on the understanding that they are the original work of the authors, and that the views are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher is not responsible for the accuracy of items submitted, but makes every reasonable effort to verify information. Editorial staff accept no responsibility for accuracy of material submitted for publication but every effort will be made to verify information. Editorial staff reserve the right to reject, edit and rearrange any item submitted for publication. The Trade Practices Act provides severe penalties for false and misleading advertising. Because it is not possible for this magazine’s staff to check the accuracy of advertising claims, the responsibility for accuracy lies with the person or companies submitting material for publication.
32 The Wheel Summer 2018 Unpaid/Short paid Superannuation Report from our Superman Joel Clarke If there are concerns of unpaid or underpaid super, we can contact your Our mates at employer and seek some answers – It is a worrying trend, just how many TWU Super are working superannuation is often the first thing that members are coming to me with hard to set you up goes unpaid if a company is struggling. concerns that their super has not been paid or is not being paid correctly. when it comes to your Unfortunately, there are employers out retirement. We get a there who would rather your hard-earned If you’re an employee (casual, part-time, super in their own pockets instead of it or full time) and earn more than $450 few updates helping to fund your retirement! in a calendar month, your employer from them! is required to make Super Guarantee Unpaid/short paid superannuation Contribution (SGC) payments into your matters are usually referred to the nominated super fund. Australian Tax Office (ATO) who can hour week and can include some impose penalties for late payments and Super should appear on your pay slip allowances but not overtime payments. specify nominal interest to be paid on each week but it is only required to be late payments. paid into your superannuation account Please get in touch with if you would quarterly, and they are deemed to be late like me to confirm if your super is being I have assisted a number of members payers after 6 months. calculated or paid correctly, I am able to recoup unpaid super via the ATO to review payslips and compare to your and have found the process has been SGC is currently set at 9.5% of your EBA or award. simplified and outcomes being reached Ordinary Time Earnings (OTE), for most sooner than previously. members their OTE is their ordinary 38-
Super Admin Transition Supporting the T.W.U. As reported previously, TWUSUPER has undergone a change of administrators (this is not to be confused with ‘going into administration’). This was an extensive but necessary undertaking by the fund and the process was completed late last year. All TWUSUPER members should have received numerous correspondence regarding this change over, including new member/account numbers and separate letter with PIN to setup online access. If you haven’t received the above correspondence, or if you have any queries please get in touch with TWUSUPER directly on 1800 222 071. Please also note that the mailing address for TWUSUPER has now changed to GPO Box 779, Melbourne VIC 3001. ANDREW BELLMAN Dear Salary, Why are you not growing? KALGOORLIE MANAGER You, Salary, why are you not growing? All your friends are now 60 Great Eastern Highway, Kalgoorlie, WA 6430 grown up! Phone: (08) 9021 3611 Fax: (08) 9021 1397 Email: [email protected] www.rockysown.com.au
Transport Specialist
The Wheel Summer 2018 33 SINGLE TOUCH PAYROLL SET TO STREAMLINE EMPLOYERS REPORTING OF TAX & SUPERANNUATION TO ATO
The way that employers report your tax and super information is gradually changing. The majority of employers with 20 or more employees would have started 1 July 2018. But the Single Touch Payroll (STP) system will become compulsory for all employers from 1 July 2019. So what is STP and how does it affect you?
What is Single Touch Payroll? You will see your year-to-date tax - STP has started gradually, and and super information in myGov. some employers may choose to Single Touch Payroll (“STP”) aims issue payment summaries for the • You will see this information by to streamline the way employers first year. report some tax and superannuation logging into myGov and accessing information to the Australian Taxation ATO online services. • Your payment summary information Office (“ATO”). This legislation will be called an income statement in - It’s easy to set up and manage a received Royal Assent in September myGov. This is the equivalent of your myGov account if you don’t have 2016 and was due to start on 1 July payment summary (some people may one. You can now use your mobile 2018 for any employer with more still refer to it as a group certificate). number or email address to sign in. than 20 employees. However, some • The ATO will send a notification to employers and software providers - It’s not compulsory to have a your myGov inbox when your income were granted a 6 month deferral until myGov account. However, you statement is ‘tax ready’ so you or 1 January 2019 as they are not ready won’t be able to see your year- your tax agent can complete your tax for the new system. From 1 July 2019, to-date tax and super information return. it will be compulsory for all employers. online without one. • You’ll be able to contact the ATO for a • Each time your employer pays you, copy of your income statement. What will happen once STP is your year-to-date tax and super implemented? information will be updated in myGov. • You can continue to lodge your tax Under the STP system: return as you do now. This may be - It may take a few days for your through a registered tax agent, or myGov information to be updated • Ordinary Time Earnings, salary or myTax. wages and Pay-As-You-Go (‘PAYG’) after your employer pays you. That withholding information will be means the information you see in You can check if your super has reported to the ATO in ‘real time’ myGov may not always match what been paid. when payroll is processed. you see on your payslip. • Your employer will tell the ATO how • Superannuation contributions will - Year-to-date information is a total much super they are required to pay be reported to the ATO when the of the payments made by your to your fund. contributions are paid. employer from the start of the financial year. • Super funds will tell the ATO once • Employers may no longer need to your employer has made the payment provide annual payment summaries Payment summaries will also be in to your fund (this will start from 2019). to employees, as the employees myGov. will have access to their payroll • Just remember, employers pay super information via their myGov account. • Your employer is not obliged to give contributions at different times, and To be exempt employers will need to you an end of year payment summary that’s ok. However, they must pay at make a finalisation declaration. for the information they report through least quarterly. STP (the law has changed). • New employees will have the option Your registered tax agent will of completing TFN declarations and • Your payment summary information also be able to access your STP Super Choice forms online. will be available in myGov at the end information. of the financial year. • Your tax agent will know if your What STP means for you - If your employer has already started employer reports through STP. Here are some of the changes you STP reporting, ask them how you will see if your employer reports to us will get your payment summary for • Your income statement will be through STP. this financial year (2017-18). available for your agent to prepare your tax return.
34 The Wheel Summer 2018 Using Hydrogen to POWER Your Vehicle A new innovative way to keep moving that is worth reading about!
Hydrogen on demand is a safe and What you will notice is an increase in economical way to: engine torque. Whether it be overtaking ‘The unit is fitted into grey nomads, pushing into a head wind, • reduce fuel usage climbing Greenmount Hill, or exiting • reduce emissions your truck & is safe to a side road onto a busy highway, the • increase engine torque use, quiet & efficient’ additional torque will be welcomed. • provide a cleaner engine Current emission requirement demand • eliminate the need to use urea products that we reduce pollution. Modern It is important to note that the unit makes vehicles use urea (eg AdBlue©). Urea INNOVATION IN A TIME pure hydrogen and uses it immediately. is injected into the exhaust system Hydrogen is not stored. When the engine in order to burn off waste carbon OF NEED PATENT turns off, so does the unit. particles to reduce exhaust fumes. Hydrogen injected directly into the air PENDING The unit is fitted into your truck and intake will do the same thing, but with With international diesel emission is safe to use, quiet and efficient. It a better outcome. We burn it up in the scandals fresh in our minds and climate takes distilled water at an approximate combustion process which delivers you change is causing destruction around requirement of 2 litres per 24 hour period all the other benefits along with reducing the planet, E-Burn Technologies has of operation. designed, developed and produced emissions, bonus! a game changing industrial clean This way, you get to save on using technology product at a time when the RESULTS urea, save on fuel use, increase engine world needs it the most. We have third party, nationally torque, save on servicing and help save recognised laboratory testing results We need to reduce our environmental the planet at the same time. which demonstrate the effectiveness of footprint, but also we need to deliver the E-Burn System. Truck drivers carry this country, now you better business outcomes in a world that can also save planet and save money! demands performance and efficiencies. Often, the best evidence of all is behind the steering wheel. Contact Progressive Up until the introduction of this system, Fuel Systems to purchase the unit and (PATENT PENDING) there have been very few effective let your people be the best judge! We solutions to the challenge of clean and have yet to find an engineer, mechanic, Graeme Martin efficient energy. This is mainly due to the driver or accountant who have rejected [email protected] historical focus of capturing emissions the E-Burn System after trialling it! 0438 533 932 after they have been generated. Hydrogen on demand is effective because it is focused on the point of BENEFITS combustion. Our clients all report fuel savings but at varying levels. From a fuel saving HOW IT WORKS perspective, the unit works best when The E-Burn system uses Proton under full load. Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells to separate pure distilled water into oxygen Additional benefits are not always and hydrogen. The two gasses remain identified immediately. Once the unit separated, and the oxygen is vented. has been installed, the higher burn with hydrogen will result in the exhaust The system delivers pure hydrogen system presenting immaculately clean. directly to the point of combustion on That is visual and identifiable. What we a diesel engine. The introduction of don’t often consider is the reducing in pure hydrogen increases the speed of required servicing, the value of cleaner combustion in the combustion chamber. engine oil and the reduction in the need A more efficient combustion means that to the replace particulate mass filter (at a greater amount of energy is converted approx. $15k per replacement). to power at the wheels.
The Wheel Summer 2018 35 COUNTRY DRIVING Scott Morrison and his driver were cruising along a country road one evening when a pig ran in front of the car. The driver tried to avoid it but couldn’t. The pig was killed. The Prime Minister told his driver to go up to the farmhouse and explain to the owners what happened. About an hour later the driver staggers back to NBN is a joke the car with his clothes in total disarray. After having dug to a depth of 10 feet last He was holding a bottle of wine in one hand, a cigar in the other and year, British scientists found traces of smiling happily. “What happened?” asked the Prime Minister. “Well,” the copper wire dating back 200 years and driver replied “the Farmer gave me the wine, his wife gave me the cigar, came to the conclusion that their ancestors and their beautiful daughter made mad passionate love to me.” already had a telephone network more than “My God, what did you tell them?” asked the Prime Minister. The driver 150 years ago. replied: “I’m Scott Morrison’s driver, and I just killed the pig.” Not to be outdone by the Brit’s, in the weeks that followed, an American archaeologist dug to a depth of 20 feet, and shortly after, a story published in the New York Times: “American archaeologists, finding CORPORATE SHAKE-UP traces of 250-year-old copper wire, have If you’ve ever worked for a boss who reacts before getting the facts and concluded that their ancestors already had thinking things through, you will love this! an advanced high-tech communications network 50 years earlier than the British”. Arcelor-Mittal Steel, feeling it was time for a shakeup, hired a new CEO. The new boss was determined to rid the company of all slackers. One week later, the state’s Dept of Minerals On a tour of the facilities, the CEO noticed a guy leaning against a wall. and Energy in Western Australia, reported The room was full of workers and he wanted to let them know that he the following: meant business. He asked the guy, “How much money do you make a “After digging as deep as 30 feet in Western week?” Australia’s Pilbara region, Jack Lucknow, a A little surprised, the young man looked at him and said, “I make $400 a self-taught archaeologist, reported that he week. Why?” found absolutely f**k all. Jack has therefore concluded that 250 years ago, Australia had The CEO said, “Wait right here.” He walked back to his office, came back already gone wireless.” in two minutes, and handed the guy $1,600 in cash and said, “Here’s four weeks’ pay. Now GET OUT and Just makes you bloody proud to be don’t come back.” Australian. Feeling pretty good about WENDELL, I’M HOME! HOW’S THAT SORE THROAT, SWEETIE? FELLING BETTER? himself, the CEO looked around the room and asked, SUPPORTING THE TWU “Does anyone want Express Group WA to tell me what that goof-ball did here?” From across the room a voice said, “He is the Pizza delivery guy from H Refrigeration Transport and Distribution H Domino’s.” Depots in Perth, Bunbury and Albany
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