Qantas workers await distribution of $160 million compensation

Australia’s largest airline, Qantas, outsourced more than 1,800 baggage handlers, cleaners and ground staff in 2020. A Federal Court found the move was designed to curb union bargaining power and ordered the airline to pay $120 million in compensation plus a $90 million penalty, creating a total $160 million pool. About $40 million of that is earmarked for a separate fund for individual workers.

Six years after the illegal dismissals, former employees still have no clarity on when they will receive their share. Former ramp supervisor Don Dixon said, “A lot of people have financial situations that are terrible… it doesn’t look like it’s going to finish anytime soon.” Justice Michael Lee criticised the delayed application to extend the distribution deadline, calling the timing “troubling.” Law firm Maurice Blackburn, which brought the class action and now administers the fund, said it could not meet the July 31 deadline and asked for more time.

The ongoing delay leaves the sacked staff facing continued financial stress while the court and the law firm work to finalise the payment schedule.