Virgin Australia ground staff seek ballot for industrial action over payment dispute By Reuters

© Reuters. FILE PHOTO: A Virgin Australia Airways aircraft takes off from Kingsford Smith Worldwide Airport in Sydney, Australia, March 18, 2020. REUTERS/Loren Elliott

(Reuters) -The Transport Staff’ Union on Tuesday alleged that Virgin Australia was not honouring its cost commitments to floor and cabin crew and sought a poll to take industrial motion in opposition to the Bain Capital-owned airline.

The union mentioned employees had utilized for a protected motion poll with the Truthful Works Fee to acquire rights for a strike.

“Floor employees have requested the Truthful Work Fee to grant them a Protected Motion Poll as a result of they cannot afford to remain in low-paid, part-time and insecure jobs,” Nick McIntosh, the union’s nationwide assistant secretary, mentioned in a press assertion.

The provider was anticipated to enroll to 5 commitments together with an worker share scheme in addition to investments in know-how and employees to take care of protected and honest requirements, in response to a press release from the union in July.

Virgin Australia mentioned earlier within the day it was in talks with the bottom workers for a brand new enterprise settlement.

“We’re within the means of negotiating a brand new enterprise settlement for our Pit Crew workers … proceed to barter in good religion with our individuals and the Transport Staff’ Union,” a Virgin Australia spokesperson mentioned.

Virgin Australia posted its first revenue in 11 years for fiscal 2023 earlier this month, buoyed by a restoration in journey demand following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nevertheless, Reuters reported earlier this month that the airline had delayed its itemizing plans in Australia to 2024 after assessing market circumstances.