Qantas Employees Receive 14% Pay Raise and Enhanced Shift Protections

Employees of Qantas, represented by the Australian Services Union (ASU), have successfully ratified a new Enterprise Agreement. This agreement brings about significant wage increases and improved job security measures after lengthy negotiations with the airline.

As stated by ASU, the agreement guarantees a minimum wage increase of 5% in the first year, surpassing Qantas’ internal wage cap policy. Over the entire duration of the agreement, employees will see a total pay increase of 14% between now and 2028, along with retroactive backpay effective from July 1, 2025.

One of the crucial elements of this agreement is the requirement for Qantas to compensate employees for last-minute changes to their rosters. Scott Cowen, the ASU Assistant National Secretary, highlighted that these provisions represent a significant improvement for worker welfare and airline safety, acting as safeguards against fatigue and exploitation.

Cowen regarded this outcome as a notable achievement for Qantas employees, especially considering the airline’s recent focus on cost-cutting measures. He pointed out that union members committed themselves to securing the best terms possible for their workforce.

Ongoing Concerns About Management

Despite the positive outcome, the ASU noted that trust in Qantas management remains low among union members. Cowen remarked that employees accepted the deal primarily for the financial security it offers, yet they remain “skeptical” of a management approach that is focused on outsourcing and cost reduction.

The union issued a cautionary note, asserting that while the new agreement addresses immediate pay and working conditions, it will actively resist any further outsourcing and offshoring of jobs. Cowen reaffirmed the union’s commitment to advocating for well-paying local positions that address Australians’ travel needs.

While the ASU views this agreement as a current victory for workers, it emphasized that the fight to safeguard jobs will continue.

“Today is a win for workers, but the struggle for the future of sustainable aviation jobs in Australia goes on,” Cowen stated.