There is a lot of anxiety about jobs, pay and entitlements in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis and we will be in touch regularly throughout the coming weeks and months to keep you updated on latest developments.
We are in daily discussions with employers and government officials about maintaining levels of employment, ensuring workers are paid and their entitlements are honoured.
No one should be going without pay or entitlements at this time. Your union will continue to fight for guarantees around your level of pay, leave and other entitlements during this time. Employers need to step up and help support workers, their families and communities at this unprecedented time.
The airline industry will clearly feel the immediate impact of this situation, but employers will need the workforce capacity to accelerate out of the downturn when the crisis subsides. It is in the interests of companies, the government and the wider community that jobs are protected in our industry to minimise the economic impact.
We believe this message is starting to sink in. In recent days, we have lobbied government for support and assistance to protect jobs and ensure the future of aviation employers. The Prime Minister announced a $715 million assistance package and we expect further announcements from governments to help protect the industry. This money has been fought for by unions and we will continue to push for additional funding and support in not only the airline industry but wherever it’s required.
We have again contacted the Prime Minister today to seek a second assistance package, focussed on those who the first package does not benefit, such as cleaners, caterers and ground handlers.
Additionally, we are fighting for support packages for workers across all industries so that no worker is left without some form of income during this period.
We will maintain the pressure on the government and continue to lobby them for further assistance and will work with employers to protect jobs of all workers.
We will continue to keep you updated. Please ensure you follow us on social media for the most up to date and latest information. Follow these links for Facebook, Instagram, twitter .
We are by your side at this difficult time,
In solidarity,
Matt Norrey
