Virgin Australia is bracing for potential disruptions during the Christmas as cabin crew members meet with airline representatives today to avert strikes.
The industrial action follows the Transport Workers Union’s (TWU) recent protected-action ballot, in which 99 per cent of participating Virgin cabin crew voted in favour of 24-hour stoppages.
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The key issues mentioned in the dispute include demands for improved pay, job security, and work-life balance.
The Fair Work Commission will oversee the crucial talks between union representatives and Virgin Australia, aiming to reach a resolution before the busy holiday period.
TWU national secretary Michael Kaine said that protected industrial action is a last resort.
“It’s time for owners Bain Capital to show workers their concerns are understood and fix key issues driving high turnover and chronically low morale.”
The union is calling for reasonable rosters, improved work-life balance, and crucial job security guarantees.
The potential strikes come at a critical time for the airline industry, particularly during the festive season when travel demand is high.
“No one wants to see exhausted cabin crew servicing planes,” he said.
“In ground handling, we have now seen a good response with a strong enterprise agreement offer. Cabin crew and pilots deserve the same fair treatment, and certainty of pay and conditions before the festive peak.”
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