Industrial action by Sydney’s rail unions has caused delays and disruptions, leading some transport experts to suggest it could shift public opinion towards driverless trains. While unions and the government continue negotiations, experts warn prolonged disruptions may erode trust in public transport.
Public transport workers in Sydney have taken industrial action in recent weeks, slowing train speeds and staging work stoppages, disrupting thousands of commuters. While unions argue for fairer conditions, transport analysts believe sustained delays could unintentionally bolster the case for automated rail systems, which are already in operation in some parts of the city.
Ongoing industrial action and negotiations
The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) temporarily postponed its planned industrial action for 48 hours after reaching an agreement with the New South Wales (NSW) government, according to union officials. The RTBU had initially threatened to slow trains by 23 km/h below the speed limit in certain zones, a move that could have caused significant service delays.
In addition, the Electrical Trades Union (ETU) has gone ahead with rolling hourly stoppages, affecting Sydney Trains operations between 8am and 4pm. The state’s Transport Minister, John Graham, confirmed that negotiations were ongoing and encouraged commuters to check travel apps for real-time updates.
According to RTBU NSW secretary Toby Warnes, the temporary delay in action does not mean a resolution has been reached. He stated that while the government has withdrawn legal notices for now, union members remain ready to resume disruptions if negotiations fail.
Shift in public opinion towards automation
While unions aim to pressure the government for improved working conditions, transport experts warn the strikes may be undermining their public support. Dr Geoffrey Clifton, a senior lecturer in transport management at the University of Sydney, suggests ongoing disruptions could have a “perverse impact”, making driverless trains a more attractive alternative to commuters and policymakers.
According to Dr Clifton, as industrial action continues, commuters’ patience may wear thin, leading to reduced sympathy for unions and increased support for automation. Sydney already operates driverless trains on the Metro Northwest line, and further disruptions to traditional services may strengthen arguments for expanding automated networks.
Prolonged train disruptions could also push commuters to switch to cars, further reducing public confidence in Sydney’s rail system. Dr Clifton noted that for many residents, reliability is key, particularly for those travelling late at night or during peak hours. A consistent pattern of cancellations and delays may lead more people to rely on private transport, potentially increasing congestion on Sydney’s roads.
