Workers across six Toll distribution centres in Victoria and New South Wales have voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action, setting the stage for widespread disruption across Toll’s distribution operations.
The protected action ballot vote in favour of strike action comes after earlier industrial action by Toll truck drivers, with whom an agreement has reportedly been reached.
More than 95 per cent of union members from Toll warehouses providing third party logistics services for Nike, Kmart, Mondelez and Optus voted in favour of industrial action, including the option of an indefinite strike, in a ballot that was finalised yesterday.
Workers have been bargaining with Toll for more than six months but the company has so far refused claims for more permanent jobs, one single agreement, better redundancy protections and a fair wage increase.
United Workers Union organiser Anna Thwaites said Toll’s disregard for their workforce could cause disruptions to a retail supply chain already under severe stress due to pandemic lockdowns and restrictions across Victoria and New South Wales.
“Our members have risked their health and safety to keep Toll in business during this 18-month long pandemic,” Thwaites said.
“In the meantime, Toll’s revenues have seen a massive boost as the company seeks to secure further contracts with hugely profitable companies such as Amazon.
“The latest offer from Toll is an insult to these workers’ hard work and sacrifice. Our members are prepared to strike to get a fair deal, including better job security and a fair wage increase.”
Workers are looking to take ongoing action from the beginning of November if Toll does not come to the negotiation table with a reasonable offer.
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