Unions issue demand in the wake of utilities sell-off

Two of Australia’s power unions, the Electrical Trades Union (ETU) and United Services Union (USU), are calling for the new owners of a controlling stake in Australia’s largest electricity distribution network, Ausgrid, to commit to a legally binding agreement that ensures existing employment numbers and service standards are retained.

The demand is in the wake of last week’s announcement that AustralianSuper and IFM Investors will take a 50.4% ownership in Ausgrid in a $16 billion deal.

ETU secretary Steve Butler has also signalled the intention to continue working with Christian Democratic Party leader Fred Nile in order to deliver job protections through the NSW Parliament.

He says this is particularly important as Ausgrid management had previously announced their intention to test the legal standing of existing protections through the Fair Work Commission.

USU General Secretary Graeme Kelly said the unions will be writing to the new owners seeking an urgent meeting to discuss protections and future operations.

“Electricity distribution is a natural monopoly,” Kelly said. “That means that if service standards drop, if maintenance is reduced or emergency response times blow out, consumers have no ability to choose an alternative supplier for their power.

“That is why unions have fought against this sale from day one, and why we will continue to fight to ensure the best possible outcome for workers and consumers going forward.

“Today’s announcement will not see us back away from our commitment to protect the jobs of our members and the services that Ausgrid provides to the people of NSW,” he said.