Queensland Rail clinches provisional deal with train controller unions amid ongoing service cuts

After months of bargaining overseen by the Fair Work Commission, Queensland Rail announced an in-principle settlement with the unions representing its train controllers, encompassing about 270 employees from the Rail, Tram and Bus Union and the Services Union. The agreement includes an 8.5% wage increase spread over three years and a strategic delivery allowance aimed at major projects. Despite restoring 135 weekly train services, the network remains on a reduced timetable because the Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union continues protected industrial action, causing a rolling-stock maintenance backlog.

Queensland Rail said the new deal does not yet allow additional service recovery. Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg said Queenslanders want trains running and praised the progress, while urging all unions to finalize remaining agreements. The Services Union deputy secretary Rebecca Girard highlighted safety and technology provisions secured in the deal. Final approval must still come from the Queensland Rail board and the state government.