The union representing ground staff at Qantas has called for a “labour movement” to protect secure employment.
The Transport Workers Union (TWU) has said that thousands of Qantas’ ground operations employees have indicated that job security is a key concern.
Tony Sheldon, TWU's national secretary, said: “We are currently surveying around 9000 members at the airport, and although only early, the results are pointing to concerns in the workforce over the use of outside hire.
“This has led to a higher staff turnover, lower training, lower safety and security across the airline's operations, but has also drives down wages and conditions in the sector.”
Industrial action could see engineers, baggage handlers, aircraft refuellers and transport staff stage a strike.
Negotiations with Qantas are due to start later this year, said the union.
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