The Rail, Tram and Bus Union, RTBU, will take industrial action tomorrow, Wednesday, resulting in a full train network closure between 3am and 7am.
Train conductors, controllers, officers, station staff, and customer service workers are set to walk off the job.
In a statement, a V/Line spokesperson said it was currently working to finalise a plan for replacement coaches and would notify passengers of the plans as soon as possible.
The RTBU is in negotiations for the V/Line Rail Operations Enterprise Agreement.
“V/Line have continued to refuse claims that would deliver job security, wage security and clauses that ensure a fair process for all,” a RTBU spokesperson said.
“Members at Metro won conditions that address the same concerns, yet V/Line think you don’t deserve what Metro has.”
The RTBU’s critical claims include a grievance clause; no forced reduandancies; job classification structure; a part-time clause to ensure over-time fairness and wage security; and a 36-hour week with additional rostered days off and no loss of pay.
Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland said services during the strike woud be paused, and delays were expected to continue throughout the day after the strike concludes.
“The strikes and expected delays are just one of many issues members of my community have to deal with when it comes to commuting on our regional train network,” she said.
“We have just three trains a day from Albury to Melbourne – this is completely unacceptable with our region’s population.
“Since fares were reduced, we are seeing significantly increased traffic across our regional network – resulting in crowded and uncomfortable services on our trains and coaches.
“I have countless stories of people missing medical appointments due to unreliable trains, and the elderly having to stand for hours on the train because of the overcrowding and poor frequency of trains.
“With strikes set to impact the morning services, issues with this train line will become more apparent.”
Information about service changes will be published on the V/Line website, mobile app and social media. Commuters are advised to check for updates before travelling.
