Toyota Australia was forced to stop production at its Altona vehicle manufacturing plant Friday as employees took protected industrial action in the form of a 24-hour stoppage.

More than 3,000 Toyota workers have walked off the job, affecting the Altona manufacturing plant and Toyota Parts Centres in Melbourne and Sydney.

Toyota said it had offered a wage increase proposal of 11 per cent over 39 months in late July and yesterday following the unions’ request, offered three options for a 7 per cent increase over two years plus a bonus. All offers were rejected by the unions.

“Toyota Australia continues to be willing to hold discussions with the unions and employees to achieve an agreement,” the company said.

The Altona plant produces the 4-cylinder Camry, Hybrid Camry, and 6-cylinder Aurion models. More than 3300 employees build 559 cars per day, for domestic and export customers. Toyota Australia produced more than 119,000 vehicles in 2010. The Melbourne and Sydney Parts Centres distribute Toyota parts and accessories nationally.

A further three weeks of Thursday/Friday stoppages are planned, in addition to the 24-hour work stoppage which began at 7 a.m. (AEST) today.