More than 350 ground handlers contracted to Qantas, Emirates, Etihad Airways and other airlines have agreed to take industrial action on Monday 12 September, affecting international travellers and potentially causing delays to airport operations.
Baggage handlers from Dnata, a ground crew and cargo company, have agreed to walk off the job for 24 hours with the Transport Workers Union (TWU) calling for Dnata to lift pay and conditions, including minimum guaranteed work hours.
Dnata crews provide ground handling services to Qantas international flights in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, however the company does not service Qantas domestic flights.
A Qantas spokesperson said Dnata provided services to more than 20 airlines across Australia and a strike would potentially have an impact across the sector.
The latest news comes as Qantas asked company execs to assist with ground and baggage handling to combat nationwide staff shortages in August.
The Qantas spokesperson said the negotiations were a matter for Dnata and the carrier had contingency plans in place to curb disruptions.
TWU National Secretary Michael Kaine said ground handlers couldn’t afford to stay in the industry because of a drop in pay and conditions.
“We need to rebalance aviation towards good, secure jobs that keep skilled workers in the industry and ensure the safety of the travelling public,” Mr Kaine said.
A Dnata spokesperson said the company had offered workers a “highly competitive” pay offer but also needed to ensure its business was financially sustainable.
“We are disappointed that we have been unable to reach an agreement with the bargaining representatives to date,” he said.
Virgin Australia will not be impacted by the strike.
Via AAP
