Thousands of ABC staff are set to walk off the job this week for the first time in 20 years after rejecting the broadcaster’s latest pay offer.
Staff were informed that 60% of employees voted against a draft enterprise agreement, which proposed a 10% pay rise over three years and a one‑off $1000 sign-on bonus. Over 75% of staff participated in the vote, confirmed the Community and Public Sector Union, following months of negotiations with ABC management.
The vote has prompted a protected 24-hour strike starting at 11 am on Wednesday. The Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance reported that over 90% of participants supported industrial action, which allows unlimited work stoppages except for emergency broadcasts.
MEAA CEO Erin Madeley criticized the proposed $1000 payment, noting it would not be added to base salaries, would not attract superannuation, and would exclude casual staff. She highlighted that experienced journalists and media workers are being asked to do more with fewer opportunities for pay progression and growing workloads, warning that regional communities risk losing trusted local voices.
The MEAA has urged ABC management to offer a deal that reflects staff value and protects the future of Australia’s public broadcaster. The ABC employs around 4,500 people, with roughly 1,000 participating in the ballot for protected industrial action.
Jocelyn Gammie said the strike reflects staff frustration and emphasized that ABC employees deserve fair pay and recognition for their work. She added that disruptions are inevitable unless management presents a reasonable offer, though union members do not wish to inconvenience loyal ABC audiences.
The last nationwide industrial action at the broadcaster occurred in 2006, when ABC staff staged a 24-hour work stoppage.
