Workers at Riverina Water have returned to work this morning following a walkout over unequal working conditions after CEO Andrew Crakanthorp called an extraordinary meeting of the board for next Tuesday the 13th to address workers' demands in response to the unprecedented industrial action.
But union representatives have made it clear their members' expect a prompt resolution of this matter otherwise all options are on the table.
Overnight's industrial action, led by members of the United Services Union (USU), was sparked by a long-running disagreement over working hours.
While indoor staff at the council work a 35-hour week, outdoor workers are required to complete 38 hours, despite being on the same salary band.
The union argues this discrepancy equates to nearly a month of unpaid work per year and undermines the principle of equal pay for equal work.
Following a report-back meeting held early this morning, union members voted to return to work "in good faith" but resolved to reconvene next week to assess any progress on their claims.
USU Acting General Secretary Daniel Papps looks forward to learning the results of the board's deliberations.
"Our members have shown they're prepared to stand up for what's fair," Mr Papps said.
"We've returned to work today out of respect for the community and our shared commitment to public services, but we are absolutely clear: the status quo is not acceptable."
The USU has reiterated that its members are not seeking additional pay — only parity in hours worked compared to colleagues in similar roles.
"We are simply asking that workers doing equally graded work receive equal treatment," said Mr Papps.
"This is about basic fairness, and it's time Riverina Water recognised that."
The union will hold another mass meeting next week to decide on next steps following the outcome of the board meeting.
