More Hydro workers join industrial action plans

White-collar workers at Hydro Tasmania will join their Communications, Electrical and Plumbing Union (CEPU) counterparts in taking industrial action.

Professionals Australia confirmed that its Hydro Tasmania members – comprising engineers, hydrologists, and other specialist and white-collar staff at the organisation – will be taking action in the coming weeks.

CEPU workers at Hydro have already voted in favour of industrial action.

Professionals Australia national energy lead Pierce Tyson said that since the pandemic, workers have received pay increases below inflation - equating to real wage cuts each year.

 “Our members have kept Hydro Tasmania running through COVID, climate challenges, and increasing demands on Tasmania’s energy system,” Mr Tyson said.

“While workloads have risen, pay has gone underwater.

“The dam has burst.

“Our members are highly skilled professionals who’ve been patient and reasonable, but there’s only so long you can tread water when your wages are going backwards.”

Mr Tyson said Professionals Australia were united with its CEPU counterparts.

“The message is clear: enough is enough.

“Hydro Tasmania needs to come back to the table with a fair offer that recognises the value and contribution of its people.

“Last one out of the Tasmanian Government turn off the lights – while the Liberal Government fights over the scraps of the election, workers that generate over 90% of Tassie’s electricity are being left high and dry.” 

Hydro Tasmania Executive General Manager People and Corporate Affairs, Ruth Groom, said the organisation offered strong remuneration and benefits to its employees.

“The average salary for employees on the Hydro Tasmania Enterprise Agreement is over $117,000, excluding superannuation or overtime,” Ms Groom said.

“We also offer employee entitlements such as unlimited sick leave, generous gender-neutral parental leave and flexible work arrangements.

“We believe the offer we put forward was fair and reasonable, but we respect the outcome of the vote.

“We’ll head back to the bargaining table and continue to negotiate in good faith.”

Ms Groom said the looming industrial action would not impact the state’s electricity supply.

“Hydro Tasmania respects the right of employees to take industrial action and assures Tasmanians that energy security and safety are our top priorities and we have plans in place to minimise any impacts. 

“The unions have provided undertakings that union members taking action will respond to safety-related directions.

“There is plenty of capacity within our energy network and within our business to manage Tasmanian demand.”