Strike 3: Tram drivers walk off the job again

Commuters are being warned to expect more chaos on the public transport network today, as tram drivers again walk off the job.

Contract negotiations between Yarra Trams and the union broke down yesterday.

The company has offered 13 per cent pay rise over the next three years, but the union is demanding 18 per cent.

As a result, Melbourne’s public transport users will experience significant disruptions for the third time in a fortnight.

Tram drivers will walk off the job between 10am and 2pm.

But services will be out of action between 9am and 3pm, with trams needing to return to depots.

About 120 buses have been called in to replace some lines, while a team of Yarra Trams volunteers will be on the ground to provide information to customers.

The government has again urged all parties to continue talks and settle the dispute.

Meanwhile, a section of the taxi driver community will rally on the steps of State Parliament at 10am.

They will protest again rideshare service UberX.