Qantas has reached a $120 million settlement with the Transport Workers Union (TWU). The deal compensates 1,820 former ground handlers affected by Qantas’ outsourcing decision in 2020. The settlement follows a Federal Court ruling in October 2024, which addressed compensation for three representative employees.
Qantas and the TWU will set up a compensation fund, managed by Maurice Blackburn. This fund will compensate the affected employees for both economic and non-economic losses. It will also cover payments to the TWU and distribution costs.
The compensation fund will launch in early 2025. Workers will receive their payouts soon after. The compensation shows Qantas’ effort to address the consequences of outsourcing. The airline has worked closely with the TWU to resolve the issue before the holiday season.
Earlier this year, Qantas updated its financial results to reflect compensation and penalties. Adjustments related to the settlement will appear in the Interim Financial Report for the first half of FY25. A separate hearing will determine penalties. The Federal Court will confirm the date for this.
This settlement brings a crucial step toward closure for the affected workers. Qantas has apologized for the distress caused. The airline is committed to fairly compensating employees for their losses.
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