Qantas Engineers Strike Over Pay Nationwide

Qantas engineers are set to strike nationwide over the next two weeks, demanding a 15% pay rise in the first year and 5% annually thereafter to compensate for years of wage freezes. The industrial action begins in Melbourne and is expected to affect flights across Australia, coinciding with major events such as the AFL and NRL Grand Finals and school holidays, although Qantas claims to have contingencies in place to minimize disruptions. The engineers, represented by the Qantas Engineers' Alliance, argue that they have been undervalued despite the airline's substantial profit of $1.25 billion in the 2023-24 financial year. Paul Farrow of the Australian Workers' Union and Steve Murphy of the Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union emphasized that Qantas' offer of a 3% annual raise is inadequate given the engineers' vital role in maintaining safety. Despite the company's assurances, significant delays and cancellations are anticipated, affecting thousands of travelers.