Workers at the Inn at Laurel Point have voted 98 per cent in favour of a contract that will see wages increase by 20 per cent or more over four years, averting a strike at the hotel.
On April 27, the workers had issued a 72-hour strike notice, which has been averted given the new contract that starts June 2022.
By February 2026, cooks will see a 25 per cent increase, and room attendants will have a 26 per cent increase, according to the union.
The union, UNITE HERE Local 40, says additional protections that have been brought in for tipped workers.
Servers, bartenders, banquet staff, and bell staff now have the right to review records to ensure management correctly pays the automatic charges and debit/credit card tips. It also prohibits management from creating tip pools.
“Getting the contract we want means that I am better able to support my family. The team here at Laurel Point – the housekeepers, front desk agents, banquet workers, restaurant servers, kitchen staff and other departments – are what keeps this place an amazing place to work and stay,” said Aaron Walters, a server at Inn at Laurel Point’s Aura Restaurant in a news release.
“I’m very proud that we all stuck together to attain a living wage, given Victoria’s high rate of inflation. I hope this inspires other unions and workers to demand what is fair and just for them as well.”
Additionally, front desk staff have won protections for sales commissions.
“The workers are happy and relieved to come to an agreement. We were fortunate to have a strong group of organizers and committee to achieve this fair result,” said Harj Aheer, front desk agent at the Inn.
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Laura Brougham
