Motor mechanics and technicians working at the Royal Automobile Association (RAA) of South Australia have strengthened their collective resolve during an exhaustive 10-month long negotiation for a new workplace agreement.

AMWU delegate Paul Gunner said members were generally satisfied to have finalised an agreement in October, that delivered at least a 3.5% pay rise together with a number of improved conditions.

“We took collective action to fight for a better deal and in the end it paid off. But by far the most pleasing thing has been the growth in our union membership (now up to 100 strong) and collective activity during this time.   

“We have built solidarity amongst our workgroup and given them a voice, that has been our most significant outcome.”

Mr Gunner cited the increase in online communications between AMWU members as an important tool in building activity.

“Being remote workers and working on the road it’s difficult to meet together regularly. But we’ve established an online forum for members to discuss the agreement and other workplace issues. It’s been an excellent communication tool.” 

In particular he praised the work of AMWU delegates Lance Head, Barry Depledge, Mike Walker, Ed Barr, John Kalionis and Tom Hasset, during union collective agreement negotiations.

“They all put in so much. What we have achieved is not easily measured but it is still extremely valuable. We’re building on today’s actions for the future.”

He believed the decision to take collective action during September and October shifted the power balance back to the workers and ensured their claims were recognised by management.

“This action lead to the CEO and operations manager becoming directly involved. It showed our members how our collective voice can have an impact.”