The ASU has been made aware that Toll Dnata has recently advised people that the company will no longer be paying for shoes that are required as part of your uniform.
This is completely unacceptable and the Union will be addressing this issue with Andrew Smith on his return from annual leave. In the meantime the answer to the question above, to buy or not to buy, is DO NOT BUY.
What is the Union doing?
Once being made aware of the issue the ASU immediately sent a letter to Toll Dnata highlighting our concerns over the lack of consultation in relation to changing what we say is a work place entitlement. We have told the company that they must meet with us to address this issue or we will escalate the matter to more senior management and or the Fair Work Commission.
Why is this an issue?
Toll Dnata have always provided shoes for employees and the ASU’s position is that this must continue.
Toll Dnata requires you to wear a particular style and colour of shoe therefore it is their obligation to provide you with those shoes as part of your uniform.
You don’t have to pay for any other item of clothing that you wear because Toll Dnata requires you to wear a particular uniform and therefore provides it at no cost to you. We say this also applies to your footwear and always has.
Ground hog day
Some of you may recall that we faced a similar issue in 2011 when those working on the V Australia contract were instructed to buy a particular shoe to go with the new uniform that they introduced that were in excess of $100.
The ASU had this issue rectified at the time, shoes were supplied by Toll Dnata and those that had purchased the shoes were reimbursed.
It is our expectation that the same common sense be shown now to fix this issue.
The ASU will pursue this matter
To be clear we are not asking for anything new. We are simply not agreeing that the company can unilaterally make a decision to take something away from you that has always been supplied.
The ASU intends to pursue this issue and will keep you updated with any progress, in the meantime we suggest that you do not pay for your own shoes. If you have any issues or you are directed to purchase shoes prior to this matter being resolved please see one of your delegates immediately.
It’s time to get on board
If you are not yet a member of the ASU it’s time to get on board with the rest of your workmates and join. We have consistently showed that we are here for the long haul and have rectified many issues for our members.
You can join online and view our website at www.asuvic.org or complete the membership form on the rear of this bulletin and return to the ASU. It’s never been more important to be a member than it is now