Members of the Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance at Guardian Australia have today applied to the Fair Work Commission for a protected action ballot.
Guardian Australia journalists are committed to providing quality journalism for the readers. They are taking the step of a protected action ballot to ensure sustainable and secure jobs, and transparency and accountability on diversity.
MEAA acting Media Director Michelle Rae said members were preparing to take action to ensure that quality journalism can continue to be produced at Guardian Australia and to secure a sustainable future for the industry.
"Lodging an application for protected industrial action is not something that members have done lightly, but they feel they have no choice after months of negotiations with management have failed to produce a satisfactory offer," she said.
"All journalists at Guardian Australia are asking for is career progression, a commitment to better workplace gender and cultural diversity, and job security.
"Both in-house and freelance journalists are standing together so they can continue to deliver to the public the quality journalism for which Guardian Australia has become known since it arrived in Australia a decade ago.
"We urge Guardian management to come to the table with an offer that satisfies members' modest demands."
Guardian Australia House Committee statement:
Solidarity statement from Guardian Australia freelance delegates:
Solidarity statement from Guardian UK chapel: