Global transporter addresses job security accusations and says offer on table for improved employee entitlements
FedEx has denied accusations of heavy handedness from the Transport Workers Union (TWU) after being listed alongside StarTrack, Toll, Linfox and BevChain as targets for industrial action.
FedEx claims its cooperative negotiations with the TWU included securing an agreement for a fair wage and superannuation increase for its employees.
“We are disappointed that the TWU has chosen to take industrial action and is now threatening further industry wide industrial action, despite productive negotiations to date and the impact it will have on customers and the community, especially in these critical times,” FedEx says in a statement.
“FedEx has been in negotiation with the TWU for the past five months. We have tabled an offer which improves current employee entitlements and includes a fair wage and superannuation increase.
“These increases would come on top of the already above market wage rates and superannuation which we pay our employees, which are higher than many of our competitors.”
FedEx says it also addressed the TWU’s primary concern of job security with its most recent negotiations with the union taking place on September 29 this year.
“FedEx has committed to reduce use of outside hire where we are able. However, in the course of doing our business, we do face situations such as annual leave and peak periods where it is necessary to engage outside hire to meet our delivery commitments and provide industry leading service to customers.”
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maintains that its operations are all about servicing tens of thousands of Australian businesses, playing a vital role to keep supply chains moving, delivering essential goods and services which are of utmost importance.
“With Australian businesses already significantly impacted by COVID, TWU’s industrial action is not only disruptive to our business but, more importantly, to our team members, customers and communities,” FedEx says.
“We continue to provide pickups and deliveries for our customers. Providing the best customer experience possible is a top priority for us. The comprehensive contingency plans we have put in place are working well in case of any disruptions we face on account of COVID-19 or a possible strike action as in the past by the TWU.
“We are working hard to minimise the impact to our customers to the extent possible.”
FedEx states that it is endeavouring to work closely with customers and keep them informed about any possible service disruptions that may impact them.
“Customers can also find the latest updates on our website or contact customer service regarding their shipments.
“FedEx has continued to invest in the growth and development of team members and our operations in Australia. At FedEx we believe our team members are our biggest asset.
“We are committed to ensure a fair workplace with competitive wages and benefits, learning and development opportunities, and a good work environment for our team members along with promoting job security.”
FedEx says it hopes to work together with the TWU to finalise an enterprise agreement that balances the interests of both team members and the company.