Union Solidarity helps Preston Motors' workers

Workers from across Melbourne have thrown their support behind National Union of Workers (NUW) members who are on strike at Preston Motors in Campbellfield.

Activist group Union Solidarity put a call out for community assemblies outside Preston Motors' Campbellfield plant on March 22 and 26. Up to 100 people from a range of unions responded on each occasion, significantly strengthening the picket line.

The dispute began on March 13 when more than 30 NUW members working in the spare parts sections of Preston Motors at the Campellfield, Dandenong and Geelong sites began an indefinite strike. The Geelong workers have returned to work.

Workers took action because the company refused to negotiate a reasonable wage increase. The company is offering a pathetic rise of $4 a week, which it wants to pay to workers in two separate $100 payments a year. This is despite an explosion in the cost of living.

The main picket line is at Preston Motors' main site at 1551 Sydney Road, Campbellfield, where the workers are maintaining an around-the-clock picket. Supporters are welcome.

From GLW issue 704