Qantas continues battle with unions

Qantas continues battle with unions
By admin


Qantas has denied claims that it misled a senate inquiry into last year’s industrial dispute and slammed the Transport Workers Union (TWU) for mounting an “unrelenting campaign” to undermine the airline.

As the arbitration case continues before Fair Work Australia, TWU national secretary Tony Sheldon has accused Qantas of providing conflicting versions of its decision to ground the fleet in October last year.

While chief executive Alan Joyce last year told a senate committee that he made the decision on the spot in 2011, the airline’s chief financial officer Gareth Evans this week revealed that a lockout had been discussed in the weeks preceding the grounding.

The TWU says the contradicting claims suggests that the airline planned the lockout in advance, and is calling for an investigation to “set the record straight”.

“Qantas has confirmed that they had a lockout strategy ready to roll once the CEO pushed the button. Their trail of false and misleading statements demands immediate and thorough investigation,” Sheldon said.

Qantas has been quick to dismiss the claims, noting that the lockout was always a possibility. Instead, it blames the TWU for continuing its crusade to damage the Qantas brand.

“Qantas had always known a lockout was an option because it’s the only form of industrial action an employer can take under the legislation,” Qantas group executive government and corporate affairs Olivia Wirth said. “This is another conspiracy theory from the union official who was at the centre of last year’s dispute.”

Wirth stressed that Qantas considered a “range of options” in the lead up to the grounding, including a lockout. However, a final decision was not made until the day, she added.

The hearing before Fair Work Australia continues.
 

Latest News

  • Events

CATO commemorates 25 years with anniversary dinner

The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) has announced its 25th Anniversary Dinner that will not only commemorate CATO’s historic milestones but will also provide an invaluable opportunity for members to network and reflect on numerous significant achievements. This prestigious event for members will be held at the Sydney Hilton Hotel on Thursday, 20 June, […]

  • Conferences

Fiji Tourism Exchange 2024 opens with a vibrant ceremony at Sofitel Fiji Resort, Denarau

The two-day Fiji Tourism Exchange 2024, opened with a vibrant ceremony at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Denarau. A pinnacle event in the South Pacific tourism calendar, the event brings together industry stakeholders from across the globe to delve into Fiji’s tourism offerings and cultivate long-lasting business relationships. Acting Prime Minister and Minister […]

  • Destinations

Raes on Wategos celebrates 30th birthday and guests get the presents

World famous luxury boutique hotel Raes on Wategos, in Byron Bay, has launched its 30th birthday celebrations with a Raes Indulgent Escape package. Available for all stays of two nights or more, from June to August, the curated package offers an invitation to indulge in a shared celebration of Raes 30th birthday, whilst revelling in […]

  • Cruise

Seabourn’s two new value-add offers for 2024-25

Luxe cruise line Seabourn is offering two value-added promotions featuring must-have fares and a generous shipboard credit for guests seeking to book their next voyage. The exclusive “A Sail to Remember” Event includes must-have fares on most Seabourn ultra-luxury ocean and expedition voyages in October 2024 and beyond. The “More Moments on Us” Event offers […]

  • Cruise

PONANT commercial team expands to meet growing demand in APAC 

Luxury exploration cruise line Ponant has announced significant updates to their Asia Pacific commercial team in response to accelerated growth across the region. “These structural enhancements signify Ponant’s dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our valued trade partners in the Asia Pacific region,” general manager sales & marketing, Asia Pacific, Deb Corbett said. “We […]

  • Products

Embrace the journey: Traversing the world with the Shokz OpenRun

If you’ve been on the wrong side of a final call in the airport, or missed the stop on rail journey, it might be time to invest in a pair of Shokz OpenRun headphones. Originally marketed as headphones for fitness fanatics, runners or cyclists with a keen to steer clear of a prang with a car, […]