A nationwide strike by StarTrack workers today could further delay the delivery of thousands of parcels across the country.
Key points:
- Workers from multiple logistics companies have taken industrial action in recent weeks
- The strikes are expected to further strain the clogged parcel delivery network
- StarTrack workers are taking action today, and FedEx workers are planning to strike tomorrow
The delivery network has been overwhelmed in recent months by the increased demand brought about by COVID lockdowns.
Hundreds of StarTrack workers are today taking part in a 24-hour strike after their negotiations with management over a new workplace agreement broke down, a month after they took similar action.
Workers from Toll and FedEx have also recently taken industrial action.
Transport Workers’ Union national secretary Michael Kaine said the workers were asking for access to overtime and a limit on the use of outside hire.
He accused StarTrack management of “inexplicably” walking away from negotiations.
“They’re here because they want their job security locked in,” he said.
Mr Kaine said StarTrack workers had “done their piece for the community” by continuing to work to deliver packages throughout the pandemic.
StarTrack, which is part of Australia Post, said contingency plans were in place to manage the staff shortfall caused by the strike.
But it warned that regional communities would be impacted the most.
Up to 3,000 employees of FedEx Australia are also planning to take strike action tomorrow over their workplace negotiations. The workers took similar action a month ago.
The boss of logistics company Shippit, Rob Hango-Zada, has said the entire network has been overwhelmed by disruptions caused by COVID and the extra demand from people in lockdown.
He has said that Australia Post is delivering volumes equivalent to the pre-Christmas rush “every single week”.
FedEx has been contacted for comment.
