Industrial Action Is Escalating Across the Country
Jetstar workers represented by the Australian Services Union have escalated industrial action, with one-hour stoppages planned at major airports including Sydney, Melbourne Tullamarine and Avalon, Brisbane, Adelaide, Cairns and the Gold Coast. The timing lines up with a busy travel weekend and the dispute comes down to pay.
What’s Actually Behind the Dispute
The union says Jetstar hasn’t put forward a pay offer that meaningfully lifts workers’ wages, with staff rejecting a proposed increase as inadequate given current cost-of-living pressures. Jetstar disputes how the union has characterised its offer, saying it has put forward a fair deal that includes pay increases, improved allowances and more rostering flexibility.
Will Your Flight Actually Be Affected?
Jetstar says it has contingency plans in place and doesn’t expect flights to be impacted by the stoppages. That’s reassuring if you’re flying this weekend, but it’s still worth keeping an eye on your flight status and allowing a bit of extra buffer at the airport, just in case plans change at short notice.
One Upside If You’re Travelling This Weekend
If you are flying Jetstar this weekend, there’s a small silver lining. As part of the industrial action, union members will not be charging some sales related fees, including excess baggage charges, seat change fees and late fees. These actions could save you a bit of cash if you usually get caught at the gate with more in your bag than you’re allowed.
What to Do If You’re Flying Jetstar This Weekend
Check your flight status before heading to the airport and build in a little extra time just in case If you don’t get charged a fee you’d normally be charged, count that as a little bonus. Industrial disputes like this can shift quickly, so staying updated is the best way to avoid being caught out.
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