For the first time in 20 years, ABC journalists and staff will stage a 24-hour strike from 11am on Wednesday (March 23rd), after a majority of workers rejected the broadcaster’s latest pay deal and negotiations with management broke down.
The ABC’s chief people officer, Deena Amorelli, informed staff on Monday morning of the result; that the proposal of a 10% pay rise over three years and $1000 signing bonus was denied by 395 votes.
The Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) confirmed that more than 75% of staff participated in the vote, which took place after months of negotiations between ABC management and unions.
“CPSU members do not vote for strike action lightly. The fact that so many union members have taken this step demonstrates how frustrated they are at this process,” ABC Section Secretary Jocelyn Gammie said.
“ABC staff work hard to provide high quality services for the Australian community. They deserve to be treated with respect and that means a decent pay offer and fair agreement. The last thing union members want to do is inconvenience loyal ABC audiences by disrupting programming and services, but key bargaining claims remain unresolved,” Gammie added.
“Unless the ABC put a fair offer on the table, disruptions are inevitable.”
The last major strike at the ABC was in 2006, again over a pay dispute, and caused severe disruptions to its broadcast operations. Presenters will begin informing audiences of the planned action from 11am on Tuesday.
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A similar 24-hour strike was called off in early 2023 after then-managing director David Anderson tabled an improved 11% pay offer at the last moment, alongside a $1500 cash bonus.
The unions are expected to brief members on plans during meetings on Monday morning.
The latest offer included 3.5%, 3.25% and 3.25% pay rises across three years. The offer also included 16 weeks of parental leave for supporting partners and increased sick and compassionate leave.
The current offer is below the most recent inflation figures, which as of January was 3.8%.
The ABC has been contacted for comment.