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Important Update for All Newcastle Members 

Sep 24, 2025

We want to keep everyone informed on where things stand with bargaining, the campaign, and what comes next.

1️ KDH hasn’t improved the pay offer

  • Despite months of bargaining, the company hasn’t increased their wage offer.
  • In fact, they went backwards during a recent Fair Work Commission (FWC) appearance.
  • The upcoming public campaign is our best shot at putting enough pressure on the company to lift their offer.

2️ What’s this “Intractable Bargaining” stuff?

  • The company is trying to take us down the path of “Intractable Bargaining” through the FWC.
  • That’s a process that would take 6+ months and removes members’ right to vote on the deal — we do NOT support this at the moment.
  • It also very likely it won’t lead to the outcome members want.

3️ What If KDH comes back with a better offer?

  • If the company brings a better deal to the table, the RTBU will immediately take it to members.
  • The current campaign will never get in the way of a good EA outcome.
  • If members vote “yes” on a fair deal, the EA is locked in — and the campaign continues to ensure long-term change.

4️ Why Launch a Public Campaign?

  • We’ve tried stoppages. We’ve done media. But the company still won’t move.
  • This campaign ramps up the pressure — through public attention, government scrutiny, and reputational damage.
  • The company can stop all this easily: by giving workers a fair wage offer.

Bottom Line: The Choice Is Yours

If members want to accept the current offer, we can communicate that to the company at any time.
If you want to keep fighting for fair pay, this campaign is the strongest tool we’ve got right now.

  • The campaign will never override your right to vote or get in the way of a deal.
  • It’s 100% about getting a better outcome for Newcastle workers.
  • The goal: fair pay, secure jobs, and a future in public hands.

If you have any questions, reach out. Let’s stay united and focused. Together, we’ll get the deal you deserve.

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