Major disruption at airports across the country has been avoided with ground staff calling off planned strike action for next week.
Workers at Dnata had threatened to walk off the job for 24 hours on Monday over a battle about wages and job security.
Dnata provides ground handling services for several airlines including Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Etihad and Emirates at major airports including Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide.
Workers have now secured a new agreement which will see them receive pay increases of 17% over the next four years.
They have also resisted attempts to scale back overtime requirements part-time and casual staff will have greater opportunities to move into full-time roles.
Transport Workers Union National Secretary Michael Kaine says it’s a welcome outcome.
“Overworked ground staff needed a fair deal that would sustain them and their families so that they could remain in the industry. By standing strong together, they achieved it,” Mr Kaine said.
“After more than two years of turmoil for Dnata workers denied JobKeeper, they’re thrilled to have locked in greater financial security and the possibility of converting casual and part-time roles to secure, full-time positions.
“It’s a relief for hardworking families that last resort strike action is no longer necessary.”
