Members, we are living is very difficult times, both domestically and internationally.
We started 2026 in the middle of a cost of living crisis and are now facing further and extreme pressure on fuel due to the war in the middle east.
Personally, living in Bathurst the latest blow of ever-increasing fuel prices and fears of shortages has really hit hard and I know many members are doing it even tougher. We have taken some direct action in the local government sector by proposing a Splinter Award to assist members get through these tough times. (see story here)
We have also taken action with our national union to address the pressures being applied by the cost of living – read about it below.
Your union is by your side during this crisis. Taking real action on cost of living and fuel as well as supporting you and your family with genuine savings delivered from your USU membership. Do you know your union membership offers you are range of savings? Check out how you and your family can save below.
By Your Side,
Sharon Sewell
President
United Services Union
National action on Cost of Living
On 18 March, USU representatives attended the National Executive meeting alongside fellow ASU branches, where a resolution was passed declaring that ongoing interest rate rises are untenable for working Australians.
Rising interest rates and soaring fuel costs are placing real pressure on all of us, making it harder to make ends meet. The national resolution makes clear the solution must be targeted cost of living relief — not cuts to services or policies that place further pressure on working people.
Why should working Australians be forced to carry the burden of this crisis, while those at the top continue to post record profits?
“Workers are being hit from every direction, housing, fuel and groceries. It’s becoming impossible to keep up. Our members shouldn’t have to choose between filling up their car, paying the rent or putting food on the table.
“Interest rate rises are a blunt tool that are putting enormous pressure on working people, while doing nothing to address the real drivers of inflation. Enough is enough. Workers have a right to a secure home and a decent standard of living.
“We need practical, targeted cost of living relief that supports workers — not policies that put more pressure on people already doing it tough.”
The resolution also outlines key measures to support workers, including:
- Real wage increases to ensure workers can keep up with rising costs
- Greater access to working from home where possible to reduce commuting expenses
- Improved travel and fuel allowances for workers required to be on the road
- A 4-Day work week for frontline workers
- Protections against job insecurity and standdowns
With many USU members working in essential frontline and operational roles, the need for properly funded services has never been greater.
Cuts to government spending would only deepen the crisis, placing further pressure on workers and the communities they support.
The USU will continue working with members and with the ASU nationally to push for real cost of living relief and ensure workers are supported through this period.
Support available to members
As part of your USU membership, you can access discounted fuel through prepaid fuel cards – helping you save around 2% at Shell or Ampol.
It might not solve everything, but it’s one of the discounts to help ease some pressure.
I know this is a challenging time, and the USU will continue pushing for practical solutions that support you at work.
CHECK OUT SOME OF THESE SAVINGS THROUGH YOUR UNION SHOPPER!
