Hundreds of FSU members have expressed deep disappointment and frustration with ANZ’s proposed Suncorp Bank Enterprise Agreement. The clear message we heard at last week’s union meetings was this: we are united in voting NO when the ballot opens on 11 August.
To ensure you make an informed decision when you vote, please read our summary of key concerns:
Being informed is key, so the best thing we can all do right now is speak to our workmates about what’s at stake.
If your colleagues have questions, ask them to get in touch with the FSU — or simply forward them this email.
And if you have any questions yourself, reply to this email and we’ll be in touch.
More information about ANZ’s offer is also available on our website.
Does ANZ have to return to negotiations if we vote ‘no’?
Yes. Under the Fair Work Act, ANZ/Suncorp Bank is legally required to bargain in good faith. That obligation remains even if employees reject the current proposal.
Voting ‘no’ is not a vote for delay — it’s a vote for a better offer. If ANZ attempts to walk away or stall negotiations, the FSU will escalate the matter to the Fair Work Commission.
A ‘no’ vote is a strong, legitimate way to say: this deal isn’t good enough — and we deserve better.
Could management come back with a worse offer?
In the FSU’s experience, employers do not respond to a ‘no’ vote by returning with a worse offer. Doing so would show a complete lack of respect for employees.
Voting is a fundamental part of this process, and a ‘no’ vote is a clear and legitimate indication that the proposal doesn’t meet employees’ needs.
ANZ should respect the outcome, listen to its workforce, and return to the table in good faith to work with the FSU on a proposal we can all support. Responding with a worse offer would only signal that the company is unwilling to engage respectfully with staff.
In 2015, when ANZ workers voted ‘no’, the company came back to negotiate. That’s what respect looks like — and it’s what we expect now.
Together, we can send a strong message: we deserve better.
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