Sydney commuters are being warned to expect major delays and cancellations across the city’s train network on Saturday, with over 350 services disrupted due to ongoing industrial action by rail unions. The New South Wales transport minister, Jo Haylen, said close to 40% of train services are expected to be cancelled or significantly delayed.
The disruptions come just days before Christmas, causing headaches for holiday travelers and last-minute shoppers. Authorities are urging people to avoid non-essential travel on the rail network and consider alternative modes of transport such as buses, light rail, or the Metro.
Major Impacts on Key Lines and Routes
Sydney Trains CEO Matthew Longland said commuters should prepare for significant delays and cancellations, particularly on the T1, T2, T3, and T8 lines, as well as the airport link. Those heading to major events like the Randwick races or Saturday evening’s Carols in the Domain are advised to leave extra travel time or find another way to get there.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Jeopardy
The industrial action also threatens to derail Sydney’s iconic New Year’s Eve celebrations, with the police commissioner warning that the midnight fireworks display may need to be called off if train services are cut by half as unions have foreshadowed. Authorities say they can’t risk having a quarter of a million revelers stranded in the city center with no way to get home.
“Imagine this kind of impact with services cancelled or delayed on New Year’s Eve. People need to be able to celebrate with their families. They need to be able to get where they want, where they need to go.”
– NSW Transport Minister Jo Haylen
Calls for Strike Action to End
Minister Haylen said the ongoing industrial disputes are having a “significant and real impact” on commuters and businesses. She called on the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) to end the strikes, saying “no level of disturbance or disruption” is acceptable over the busy holiday period.
- Significant delays and cancellations expected, with 40% of services impacted
- T1, T2, T3, T8 and airport lines to see major disruptions throughout Saturday
- Travelers urged to make alternative plans and avoid rail network if possible
- NYE celebrations under threat if train capacity is halved as unions warn
The NSW government will take its case to the Fair Work Commission on Tuesday in an attempt to suspend or terminate the protected industrial action on the grounds that it threatens to endanger public safety and cause substantial economic harm. Several businesses have also lodged their own applications with the industrial umpire in a bid to stop the strikes.
As the court battle looms, Sydney commuters are being warned to brace for more disruptions in the lead up to the busy Christmas and New Year period. With no end to the industrial standoff in sight, travelers will need to keep a close eye on service updates and make contingency plans to navigate the city’s crippled rail network.
