Qantas is going full steam ahead with its plan to outsource TWU-covered workers below the wing. BTW workers will be made redundant between now and the end of March as the new ground handlers come on board. Qantas should be ashamed. In these difficult times, companies have an obligation to stand by their workers. Instead, Qantas is putting 2,000 more people out of work.
USU/ASU representatives met with the company on Friday, 22 January to discuss the impact on our members.
The outsourcing of below the wing means there will be redundancies in WFP, Australian Airports and the Occupational Rehabilitation Coordinators.
Qantas will ask affected workers non-binding EOIs voluntary redundancies, redeployment and opportunities within the following group very soon. We are in consultation with Qantas about timelines. We want affected workers to have enough time to make a considered decision about their future.
If there are too many or too few EOI’s for voluntary redundancy, there will be further consultation about a selection process voluntary redundancy (too many EOIs) or compulsory redundancy (too few EOIs). The company has suggested a merit-based selection process for the redundancies workforce planning. We have concerns about this approach and have asked for more detail.
We know this is a very stressful time, do not hesitate to seek assistance if you need it. Organisations like Lifeline 131114 or Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 are available if needed.
