We know you’re hurting and are in shock

The situation for Virgin Australia has changed rapidly. The Company will keep flying through the COVID-19 outbreak but it will be a very, very limited service. But we want to make sure that you know we will be by your side every step of the way.

Key points from Virgin’s ASX release this morning impacting you:

  • Group Domestic capacity reduction of 90% and grounding of 125 planes;
  • 10% Domestic capacity retained for essential services, critical freight and logistics;
  • Ground Crew- we expect will be stood down soon;
  • You will be able to access some leave – for some people that may not be all your leave.

This means that we now need to address the impact to work for a significant number of Ground Crew employees.

What are we doing?

The USU/ASU is urgently discussing every available option with the Company. We received a plan from Virgin Australia at midnight last night and will be having further detailed briefings with the Company and delegates throughout today.

We have also met with the ACTU and other unions to discuss this situation and next steps to protect you job security.

We are working hard to ensure that you have access to income. Any steps the business takes need to be transparent and as fair as possible in this difficult time.

We will continue to keep you up to date as our discussions with Virgin Australia continue.

We have also prepared a guide to what government assistance is available to you – check it out here

Also 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 1300224636 are available if needed.

In the meantime, if you are in need of individual assistance or have further questions please contact your USU Organiser Thomas Russell on 0419 761 320 or via email at trussell@usu.org.au