Flag carrier Qantas has agreed to a $120 million settlement in compensation for the illegal dismissal of over 1,800 ground handlers during the Covid pandemic.
The workers were fired and a subcontracted workforce was hired to save costs.
The union initiated legal action and after years of challenges won the case.
The settlement was inevitable after the Federal Court recently ruled Qantas must pay nearly $170,000 to three workers in a test case.
Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson said it is an ‘important step’ to bring the issue to a close.
“We know this has been a difficult period for those affected and are pleased we have been able to work closely with the TWU to expedite this process,” Hudson said.
A compensation fund will be set up in the new year to disperse worker compensation.
The Transport Workers Union will also be compensated by Qantas.
It is estimated worker compensation will exceed $100 million.
