Converging on Canberra from all parts of the country, Qantas workers and union officials last week lobbied pollies at Parliament House on behalf of everyone working at the Flying Kangaroo. The ASU's delegation was joined by the ACTU, NUW, TWU, AMWU and AWU.
Our courageous members shone as they told politicians of all stripes about what it's like to work for an iconic Australian airline, how proud they are of Qantas and that in fighting for their jobs, they know from direct experience that they are fighting for the integrity of Qantas as well.
The delegation explained how the protections in the Qantas Sale Act ensure that we have an airline that is the envy of the world, despite the latest crisis. That keeping majority ownership in Australian hands and restricting the work that can be offshored makes Qantas an airline renowned for service and safety.
The ASU's delegation included:
• Robyn Boucher - Hobart Telephone Sales
• Helen Joyce - Perth Airport
• Yervant Wazir - IOC (QCC3) Sydney
• Catherine Moller - Brisbane Telephone Sales
• John Casey - Melbourne Telephone Sales
Plus officials from WA, Victoria, South Australia, Queensland, New South Wales, and the ASU National Office.
We were so gratified by the support amongst many Senators and MPs, which you can see from our photos. Many enthusiastically held our "I STAND WITH QANTAS WORKERS" signs and displayed the "Don't rip the heart out of the Flying Kangaroo – keep jobs in Australia" in parliamentary office windows. We will be counting on their continued support as this plays out. You can see more photos on our ASU Facebook page here: www.facebook.com/australianservicesunion
Letting the PM know how we feel in person
The ASU delegation also managed to meet with Prime Minister Tony Abbott, resulting in a couple of photo opportunities, and although he claims not to agree with us on the effects of undermining the Qantas Sale Act, he heard us through. We guess that's something?
What next?
We are continuing to argue the case for saving jobs at Qantas and keeping both operations and majority ownership in Australia. We'll keep you advised as things continue to develop.
More information
If you want more information contact your local organiser [download the full bulletin below for details].
Qantas Group Bulletin, 26 March 2014