Virgin Australia has avoided a potentially disastrous strike over the holiday season after broking an in-principle pay deal with unions for better staff pay.
Transport Workers Union (TWU) members working for the airline had initially voted 99 per cent in favour of taking “last-resort” protected industrial strike action.
But Virgin confirmed a new agreement had been reached on Thursday, including a 15 per cent pay rise over three years depending on crew member skill and tenure.
“Under the new Enterprise Agreement, cost of living pressures will be easier for crew to manage, and lifestyle challenges will be easier to navigate,” a Virgin Australia spokesperson said in a statement.
“Today’s outcome is the result of constructive negotiations with both unions and facilitated by the Fair Work Commission.
“It will ensure our people are appropriately rewarded for their work and that Virgin Australia is set-up for long-term success.”
The provisions also include an additional six days off a year, recognition for time spent on unpaid standby, and overtime payments after nine hours.
TWU National Secretary Michael Kaine Said the deal substantially lifts pay and conditions after pandemic emergency settings left them “battling long hours, gruelling rosters, and juggling second jobs to get by.”
“From the start, cabin crew asked for terms and conditions that show they’re respected, heard and valued. Finally, crew have achieved a deal that will keep them in their jobs.” Mr Kaine said.
“This outcome shows the strength of workers bringing a solution-focused approach to bargaining and standing strong together to achieve it.”
He said pilots must be the next group to strike a bargain.
“With the peak season upon us, it’s a relief for everyone that protected industrial action won’t be needed,” Mr Kaine said.
“Good, secure jobs are the answer to rebuilding aviation. That’s why we need a Safe and Secure Skies Commission to rebalance the industry.”
The parties will spend two days next week drafting the terms of the agreement, before it goes to a vote in January.