Bus drivers can earn up to $94,000 a year with Metro Tasmania, but the union says the public transport provider’s recruitment ads don’t tell the full story about what it takes to reach that figure.
The Rail, Tram and Bus Union says that while the $94,000 figure is technically achievable, it is “misleading” and requires drivers to work substantial overtime and weekend shifts.
According to the union, drivers are frustrated by the figure, as most won’t earn that much through regular shifts alone and new recruits might quit when they realise the top salary isn’t realistic.
Independent MP Miriam Beswick raised the union’s concerns with Transport Minister Eric Abetz in parliament on Wednesday.
“Drivers are walking away, claiming conditions are poor and support is lacking,” she said.
“Why are you spending money on deceptive advertising instead of supporting your existing workforce?”
Abetz said the recruitment campaign included figures that accurately reflect what is achievable under Metro’s new enterprise bargaining agreement.
Metro’s website lists “competitive”bus driver salaries as ranging from $70,140 to $94,000, which it says is “well above the national award”.
“Just because you say up to does not mean that everybody is going to earn that,” Abetz said.
He described the $94,000 figure as the “potential” a driver could earn based on reaching the top classification of level four and working “a bit of” overtime.
Under Metro’s current system, accelerated drivers can reach level four after two years, while all drivers are automatically elevated to the top classification after 36 months.
The minister said the recent enterprise agreement negotiated between the union and Metro was so competitive it has the private sector concerned.
“They’re saying they will find it hard to match,” Abetz said. “And so when we are talking about the rates for bus drivers, Metro is in front now.”
The recruitment package also includes a $2,000 sign-on bonus paid in two instalments, with $1,000 after passing probation and another $1,000 after 12 months with Metro.
