The ASU has commenced discussions for conversions from Part time to full time at Melbourne airport.
As you would be aware the ASU initially put forward an EBA claim for some additional full time lines in various locations. However, due to the elongated negotiations since the Qantas groups decision to slash 5000 jobs and freeze wages which has in turn delayed any finalisation of a new EBA the ASU has taken the position that we were not prepared to wait any longer for full time conversions at Melbourne Airport.
Rosters show need for full time.
After doing a review of your rosters over a significant period of time it became apparent that there were many instances in which full time employment was warranted, needed and sustainable.
The review of the rosters clearly showed that many of the rostered lines were 36 to 38 hours per week not to mention the additional overtime hours and or extensions.
Lack of full time lines creates pressure and lack of security.
We know that the lack of full time lines has been placing pressure on many part time employees who want to be part time and only work part time hours rather than being rostered effectively as a full time employee. We also know that many people want to be full time and to have the job security and regularity of a full time income without having their hours cut or reduced at the whim of the company.
ASU has argued for immediate conversions.
Over the recent weeks the ASU has written to and met with Jetstar management to voice our concerns at the lack of full time lines, the non-replacement of full time lines when somebody leaves and the pressure that the lack of full time lines puts on employees that only want to work part time.
We believe that an increase in full time lines is justifiable, sustainable, provides job security and allows people who want to work less hours to do so. We are not prepared to wait any longer for conversions and have argued this point with Jetstar.
Time for JQ to do what’s right.
It is our expectation that Jetstar do the right thing and come back to us with a fair and equitable number of conversions. We also want commitments that full time lines will be maintained and backfilled when somebody leaves. We have also said that if a full time employee goes on extended leave such as parental leave then a part time employee should be seconded to a full time role until that person returns form leave.
It’s time to join.
If you are not yet a member of the ASU it’s time to get on board with the rest of your workmates and join. You can view our website and join online at www.asuvic.org or complete the membership form on the rear of this bulletin and return to the ASU or Carolyn Cassar. It’s never been more important to be a member than it is now.