RAA spokesperson Peter Bray acknowledged the vital role these employees play at the frontline of the member-based organisation and said the proposal reflects RAA’s commitment to reaching a fair and reasonable agreement.

“We value the role of our Roadside Assistance team in helping our members day in, day out,” Mr Bray said.

“Like all modern organisations, RAA needs to adapt and become more flexible in responding to the needs of our 640,000 Road Service members.

We can’t achieve this unless we move towards contemporary workplace practices and away from antiquated conditions that don’t adequately reflect the modern working environment.”

The proposal balances the evolving needs of RAA members with the requirements of the workforce in terms of remuneration, roster flexibility, family and meal arrangements and modern industry practices.

Under current conditions, patrols are paid to travel home to start their lunch breaks and are required to be given three months’ notice of any rostering change.

“RAA remains committed to providing this valuable mobile service to South Australians through our specialised in-house technicians and crews,” Mr Bray said.

“Every part of our organisation needs to be fairly remunerated, flexible and supported by modern conditions that reflect the standards of today.”

The proposal – which includes a 2% per annum wage increase over the life of the 2-year agreement, and gross lump sum payments for changes to conditions – will be the subject of an employee ballot later this month.