Brisbane ferry strike: CityCat services halted during Friday peak

Brisbane ferry services will grind to a halt during Friday’s morning peak as members of the Australian Maritime Union take protected strike action over a pay dispute. CityCat services between 8am and 10am will be cut, with the last ferries stopping at whichever terminal they are nearest to at 8am. Commuters have been urged to plan alternative travel, with services expected to resume progressively after 10am, though some delays may persist as the network returns to normal.

Details of the industrial action

The strike is part of a broader week-long industrial campaign starting Friday, which will include cancelled services and the unavailability of ticketing equipment. Signs have been posted at ferry terminals across the city warning passengers of the disruption. The Translink app is also displaying alerts about the action. The union’s decision to strike follows a vote in which 95% of members rejected the company’s latest pay and conditions offer.

Union’s position: Pay offer falls short

A union spokesperson said the offer from RiverCity Ferries—a subsidiary of Kelsian Group, which also operates Sealink Travel—failed to match the Fair Work Commission’s annual wage review increase of 4.75% or keep pace with inflation. The union argued that the company’s claim that the offer is “not viable” is undermined by Kelsian’s own financial reports, which show substantial increases in revenue and profit. “The company’s CEO, executive leadership team and board have all received significant increases to their pay packages while our highly skilled and committed members are being asked to accept an offer below inflation,” the spokesperson said.

Company response: Disappointment and commitment to negotiation

A RiverCity Ferries spokesperson expressed disappointment that services would be disrupted, noting that negotiations with unions and employee representatives have been ongoing since October 2025. “We remain committed to negotiating in good faith towards a fair and sustainable enterprise agreement,” they said. The company stated its priority is to maintain safe and reliable ferry services and minimise disruption. It is working with Brisbane City Council and Translink to communicate impacts and restore services as soon as possible. Translink has been contacted for comment.

Implications for commuters and next steps

Friday’s strike is expected to cause significant congestion on alternative transport routes, including buses and trains, as thousands of regular ferry users seek other options. The ongoing nature of the industrial action suggests further disruptions may occur if a new agreement is not reached. Both sides indicate a willingness to negotiate, but the wide gap on pay and conditions leaves the possibility of additional strikes in the coming weeks. Commuters are advised to check the Translink app and council notifications for updates on ferry services and alternative travel arrangements.