Qantas Agrees to $120 Million Compensation for Illegally Sacked Baggage Handlers

Qantas has agreed to pay $120 million in compensation to 1,820 baggage handlers it illegally outsourced in 2020. The settlement, announced on Tuesday, follows a lengthy legal battle with the Transport Workers Union (TWU), during which Qantas lost appeals in both the federal and high courts. The compensation covers economic losses and non-economic damages, such as emotional distress. Justice Michael Lee previously determined individual payouts should range between $30,000 and $100,000, noting the airline’s focus on cost-cutting would have led to job losses by 2021 regardless. Qantas CEO Van

Qantas has agreed to pay $120 million in compensation to 1,820 baggage handlers it illegally outsourced in 2020. The settlement, announced on Tuesday, follows a lengthy legal battle with the Transport Workers Union (TWU), during which Qantas lost appeals in both the federal and high courts. The compensation covers economic losses and non-economic damages, such as emotional distress. Justice Michael Lee previously determined individual payouts should range between $30,000 and $100,000, noting the airline’s focus on cost-cutting would have led to job losses by 2021 regardless. Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson issued an apology, stating the agreement helps provide closure. However, TWU National Secretary Michael Kaine highlighted the damage done to affected workers and called for industry reforms. Qantas also faces potential penalties for breaching labor laws, further increasing the financial impact of its controversial decision.