ACT prison officers stage first-ever strike over pay dispute
98 per cent of correctional officers voted to strike on October 29 over inadequate pay.
Prison officers at Canberra's Alexander Maconochie Centre have voted to strike for the first time ever. The court transport unit has also voted to strike for the first time.
The Community and Public Sector Union said more than 89 per cent of members voted in the ballot. Of those, 98 per cent backed the strike.
The two-hour walk-out is set for Thursday, October 29. Officers will march on the Legislative Assembly.
The ACT government offered 3 per cent pay rises over three years. Workers say this is not enough.
Union secretary Maddy Northam said they face rising costs of living and deserve better pay. The government says its budget is tight and it cannot offer more.
- Thursday, October 29
- Strike date
- 98 per cent
- Ballot approval
- 3 per cent per year for three years
- Government offer
- More than 89 per cent
- Union participation
Why it mattersPrison staff striking for the first time shows they are willing to disrupt a vital service. This signals serious anger about how the government values their work.
AustraliaCanberra's prison and court transport operations will face disruption on October 29 as officers strike for two hours.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 4 h ago
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