The streets of Melbourne could be left littered with trash, its libraries empty, and parks unkempt as thousands of services workers walk off the job during an ongoing pay dispute with the state government.
Australian Services Union Vic/Tas branch announced on Thursday it has lodged a protected action ballot with the Fair Work Commission.
Branch secretary Tash Wark declared the lodgement as “the biggest strike local government has ever seen” as waste, recycling, park, library, home care and other workers prepare to put down the tools in April.
“Local government workers are done being left behind,” Ms Wark said.
“The cost of living is skyrocketing, but your pay isn’t.
“We’re not just pushing back, we are fighting back big.
“Today we have officially filed for the biggest local government protected industry action ballot in history.”
In a statement delivered via the ASU website, the union said collective action was necessary to achieve wage increases of up to 10 per cent.
The Herald Sun reported disgruntled workers from eight different councils across Melbourne, including Melbourne, Hume, Darebin, Merri-bek, Yarra, Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay and Greater Dandenong, are ready to put down the tools.
“The Fair Work Commission authorised the multi-employer bargaining process in December 2025,” the eight councils said in a joint statement.
“Since then, councils and unions have been preparing for negotiations, including appointing an independent chair to oversee bargaining meetings.”
“The first formal discussions are expected in the coming weeks – and it is too early to comment on negotiations or any potential industrial action.”
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