Australian transport and Qantas industrial action

In early September 2026, thousands of Australian transport workers organized by the Transport Workers’ Union (TWU) scheduled coordinated 24-hour and 48-hour strikes. These actions targeted various logistics companies, including FedEx, K&S, and Qube, with workers demanding pay aligned with industry standards, increased job security, and influence over automation and AI implementation.

During this period, approximately 600 Qantas ground services workers also voted for protected industrial action. These workers raised concerns regarding workplace safety, psychosocial hazards, and pay structures.

By mid-September, negotiations for Qantas ground workers reached a deadlock. The TWU announced planned 24-hour strikes for September 23 and 24, primarily involving Qantas Freight and QantasLink employees. While these workers do not handle mainline flights, the airline warned of potential disruptions to freight services and QantasLink operations at Sydney Airport. The TWU alleged that Qantas uses subsidiary structures to suppress wages and conditions, while the airline stated it is pursuing negotiations through the Fair Work Commission.