Have any questions? Call us: Carter Capner Law monitors workplace accidents throughout Australia to spotlight safety issues of concern to our clients and to demonstrate those situations in which they may have a right to an insurance or compensation recovery. We act for workers and contractors throughout Australia. Call today on 1300 529 529 or click here to reach Carter Capner Law.
Introduction
The Transport Workers Union (TWU) is taking legal action against Qantas, seeking millions in compensation for nearly 1700 ground staff whose jobs were unlawfully outsourced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Federal Court is set to hear test cases to determine the appropriate compensation.
Background
Qantas outsourced the roles of ground staff at 10 Australian airports in 2020, aiming to save over $100 million annually. However, the Federal Court ruled this action as a breach of the Fair Work Act, a decision upheld by the High Court in September.
Compensation Hearings
The Federal Court will examine three test cases to assess suitable compensation levels, with the TWU’s lawyer, Josh Bornstein, indicating that the payouts could be in the millions. The hearings will address whether the workers would have remained employed if not for the outsourcing.
Impact on Workers
Affected workers, like Don Dixon, express hope for fair compensation, highlighting the personal hardships, including property losses and family issues, resulting from their job loss.
Legal Proceedings
During the hearings, Justice Michael Lee criticized the union’s delay in bringing an additional compensation claim related to lost membership fees. The court aims to expedite the process to allow workers to receive their compensation swiftly.
Qantas’s Stance
While Qantas expresses regret over the impact of its decision on former employees, it emphasizes its intention to ensure that the workers receive fair compensation promptly.