In one of the biggest workplace relations penalties in Australian history, Qantas has been fined A$90 million for unlawfully sacking 1,820 ground staff during the COVID-19 pandemic. The ruling highlights the importance of fair labor practices and sends a strong message to major corporations about accountability.
What Happened?
During the height of the pandemic, Qantas decided to outsource its ground handling operations, leading to the dismissal of 1,820 staff members. The Federal Court later found this move to be unlawful.
The Court’s Response
Justice Michael Lee, who presided over the case, criticized Qantas for issuing what he described as the “wrong kind of sorry.” He suggested that the airline’s apology was more about repairing its public image than showing genuine remorse for its actions.
Record-Breaking Penalty
This A$90 million fine is in addition to a previous A$120 million compensation payout already awarded to affected workers. Together, these penalties represent the largest industrial relations punishment in Australian history.
Distribution of the Fine
-
A$50 million will be directed to the Transport Workers’ Union (TWU).
-
A$40 million is expected to go directly to the former staff who lost their jobs.
What This Means for Workers and Companies
This landmark case is a reminder that even large corporations are not above the law. It reinforces the idea that employees have rights, and attempts to sidestep these protections can lead to severe consequences. For workers, it’s a moment of justice; for businesses, it’s a warning to prioritize fairness over profit.
The Qantas ruling sets a precedent in Australian labor history. While the financial penalties cannot undo the hardships faced by the sacked workers, they highlight the importance of corporate responsibility and ethical business practices.
