Qantas workers launch 24-hour strike at four Australian airports, union says

• Workers are seeking pay increases matching industry standards, more full-time positions, and consolidation under a single Qantas structure instead of fragmented subsidiaries
• The union cites safety concerns with workers being 'maimed and killed,' calling for a 'fundamental reset' after years of cost-cutting by Qantas
• Qantas was previously ordered to pay A$90 million ($64 million) after illegally outsourcing over 1,800 ground worker jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic

Qantas Workers Launch 24-Hour Strike Across Major Australian Airports

Qantas airport workers initiated a 24-hour strike on Thursday, September 24, affecting operations at Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth airports. The industrial action involves employees from Qantas Ground Services (QGS), Australian Air Express (AAE) freight operations, and regional carrier QantasLink, according to Australia's Transport Workers Union (TWU).

Key Demands:

Workers are seeking pay increases aligned with industry standards, increased full-time positions, and integration of work groups under a unified Qantas structure. The union argues that the airline's use of multiple subsidiaries has fragmented the workforce and compromised safety standards.

Strike Details:

In Sydney, approximately 400 safety screeners are conducting two sets of two-hour stoppages, with an additional three-hour stoppage planned for September 28. TWU National Secretary Michael Kaine emphasized that strike action is "always a last resort," citing serious safety concerns with workers being "maimed and killed."

Historical Context:

The dispute follows Qantas' controversial outsourcing of over 1,800 ground worker jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic, which was later ruled illegal. A court ordered Qantas to pay A$90 million ($64.03 million) in penalties related to this matter last year.

Market Implications:

The strike poses operational disruptions across four major Australian airports, potentially affecting flight schedules and freight operations. The TWU has called for a "fundamental reset" of Qantas' labor practices after years of cost-cutting measures. The airline has not yet responded to requests for comment, leaving uncertainty around resolution timelines and potential service impacts.