Following further representations to Qantas by the union, the ASU has received confirmation that Qantas will honour the 6 month exclusion period for staff who have been made redundant from Australian call centres who are seeking re-employment within the Qantas Group. This comes after changes to Qantas group policy at the end of 2014 which saw the exclusion period extended from 6 months to 2 years.
At the time staff were notified of the closure of Melbourne and Brisbane call centres Qantas policy provided for a 6 month exclusion period. This information was also relayed to staff in an FAQ document provided in June 2014.
Many staff relied on the representations made to them about the 6 months preclusion period in determining their preferences for redeployment and redundancy. We have received feedback that many staff want to continue working in the Qantas Group in their home cities. Job opportunities are limited yet many hope they can continue to work in the group even if it means taking a redundancy and coming back at a later time.
You can read the letter from Qantas here.
Whilst Qantas say this change only applies to Melbourne and Brisbane Telephone Sales staff being made redundant, and does not create a precedent, we are pleased that they have made this decision and provided some certainty for you.
If you would like any further information or advice please contact your local ASU delegates or ASU organiser Imogen Sturni on 0433 339 656.
