Union warns company can expect “expensive headache” if it does not intend on creating jobs for Australian workers.
The Transport Workers Union (TWU) is pushing to hold formal talks with Toll in the coming weeks about the Japan Post deal to work out what it means for Australian workers.
Japan Post last week made a takeover bid for Toll, which has supported the move.
Toll’s existing branding and management will remain in place, and TWU New South Wales secretary Michael Aird says he expects similar assurances for the rest of Toll’s workforce.
“Toll Management has given us a verbal agreement on job assurances, but formal meetings need to be held with workplace representatives over the coming weeks to cement job security and discuss the issues important to our members,” Aird writes in a missive sent to union members.
“Toll CEO Brian Kruger said this buyout was an opportunity for the company to develop further, including growth and career opportunities for employees, but rest assured the TWU will embark on an extensive consultative process to clarify exactly how this takeover will affect our members.
“History tells us many foreign takeovers of Australian-grown companies have resulted in the worsening of conditions for workers and we want to ensure this does not happen at Toll.”
Aird says the union is seeking a resolution that results in a win for its members, Toll’s workforce and company shareholders.
However, he has issued a warning should the planned takeover jeopardise jobs and workplace conditions.
“We want to see Toll grow and create quality jobs for Aussies workers in Australia. If that is not what Japan Post and Toll are planning then they may find the deal very quickly becomes a difficult and expensive headache,” Aird says.
Toll announced on February 18 Japan Post made a $6.5 billion offer for the company.
Federal trade minister Andrew Robb claims the deal will lead to a substantial injection of capital, jobs and opportunities in Toll’s Australian operations.