Queensland Rail (QR) has started recruiting train drivers from outside the organisation for the first time, but there are concerns the move will see the rail union call strike action.
Yesterday afternoon, QR won a Fair Work Commission hearing against the Rail, Tram, and Bus Union (RTBU) which wanted to keep the job appointments in-house.
The move was swiftly followed by advertisements for drivers and guards in the press and online.
Deputy Premier and Transport Minister Jackie Trad welcomed the commission's swift decision.
"We committed to implementing all the recommendations of the Strachan Inquiry and external recruitment is an absolutely critical part of that," she said.
"I want to thank and commend all Queensland Rail employees, including drivers and guards, who have been working incredibly hard throughout the reform process."
The driver shortage was one of the main factors behind a series of breakdowns in the train network last year.
The subsequent Strachan Inquiry recommended the State Government fill the void by hiring externally a move the RTBU argued was in breach of the enterprise bargaining agreement.
The Queensland Government hopes the union will respect the Fair Work Commission's decision, and not escalate the dispute with strike action.
The union was not available for comment after the commission's decision.
Queensland Rail chief executive officer Nick Easy said negotiations would continue with the RTBU through the recruitment process.
"Boosting our train crew numbers is critical to increasing services for our customers," Mr Easy said.
Overall, 100 new drivers have been appointed from within QR, but a further 100 are needed and are set to be filled from outside the organisation to stabilise the organisation's roster.
Trainee guard positions have also been advertised.
The advertisement reads: "Queensland Rail is seeking safety conscious and customer-focussed individuals to join its team".
Those applying must have permission to work in Australia and medical clearance.
