Queensland Rail finalises last pay agreement, pledges full service restoration

Queensland Rail concluded negotiations with the remaining union representing network and rolling-stock staff, bringing the series of industrial disputes to a close. The final agreement was announced by Transport Minister Brett Mickelberg at Central Station, who said the rail operator aims to restore 91% of its timetable by October 12, with a complete schedule to follow. Several of the new contracts will be back-dated to either June or the start of September.

The timing coincides with upcoming temporary closures on the Beenleigh and Gold Coast lines, scheduled to match school holidays and allow extensive track works, including a pedestrian overpass at Moorooka and upgrades at the new Loganlea station. During the three-week closure, passengers will rely on replacement buses, while other lines such as Airport, Cleveland, Doomben and Ferny Grove will see timetable adjustments. Translink head Dean Helm emphasized that the shutdowns are necessary for safety while the works are carried out.