Holiday travellers are being warned of the possibility of delays at multiple airports across the country in the coming days, due to more threats of strike action.
The United Workers Union has advised that security workers are preparing to walk off the job next Monday over an ongoing pay dispute.
It’s understood the Gold Coast and Brisbane Airports will be caught up in the industrial action on December 19, with fears it will cause disruptions at one of the busiest times of year.
Strikes will also take place at Canberra Airport this Friday.
“We are concerned that hard-working Australians could end up collateral damage in this wage negotiation,” A Brisbane Airport Corporation spokesman said in a statement.
“The date of the industrial action is in the middle of the holiday rush, and the time chosen covers the peak period of the day when we are at our busiest.
“Tens of thousands of families, and everyday hardworking Australians will have their travel plans potentially thrown into chaos if this industrial action takes place.”
Security workers say they have been fighting for six months to be paid at similar rates and conditions to their NSW and Victorian counterparts.
It’s hoped a deal will be struck before any action takes place, otherwise, it will see between 350-400 security guards walk off the job.
“We’d have to question whether a full workforce stoppage at several of Australia’s key airports at peak holiday time is proportionate action for a wage negotiation, notwithstanding the merits or otherwise of the union’s claim,” the BAC spokesman said.
“We hope that the union and security can reach a fair and reasonable outcome in a time that allows Australians to have the Christmas holiday they deserve, and to reconnect with their family and friends.”
