Qantas Faces Historic Fine for Illegal Job Outsourcing Amid Pandemic

Qantas Airways has been handed a hefty AUD 90 million fine by the Australian Federal Court for illegally outsourcing more than 1,800 ground staff jobs at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. This penalty comes in addition to the AUD 120 million in compensation the airline has already agreed to pay its former employees.

The court's ruling follows a lengthy legal battle led by the Transport Workers Union, which accused Qantas of violating labor laws by outsourcing these jobs to save costs. Justice Michael Lee termed the outsourcing as the most significant contravention of Australian labor laws in Qantas's 120-year history.

Qantas, Australia's largest airline, acknowledged the repercussions of its actions. CEO Vanessa Hudson publicly apologized, stating efforts to rebuild trust with employees and customers are underway. The case signifies a landmark moment in Australia's industrial history, underscoring the accountability of employers for illegal labor practices.

(With inputs from agencies.)