Airports across Australia faced significant disruptions as transport workers launched coordinated protests on Monday, responding to what unions describe as systemic safety failures uncovered during recent compliance inspections. The industrial action, organized by the Transport Workers Union (TWU), simultaneously unfolded at major airports in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth.
The protests specifically target Swissport, a ground handling contractor employed by several airlines including Qantas. The union’s mobilization comes after March safety inspections revealed multiple concerning operational issues. According to TWU representatives, these ‘safety blitzes’ exposed damaged ground equipment, critically inadequate staffing levels, heat-related injuries, and psychological hazards stemming from intrusive worker surveillance systems.
Richard Olsen, TWU NSW secretary, revealed that workers have submitted over 400 safety reports within a single month, highlighting what he termed ‘very poor safety conditions.’ He particularly emphasized the dangers of extreme heat exposure on tarmacs, where temperatures can reportedly reach 50 degrees Celsius.
Adding to the controversy, the union alleges Swissport has been refusing entry for legally sanctioned safety inspections at Perth Airport, raising further concerns about compliance and transparency.
Worker testimonies presented during the protests detailed a concerning relaxation of safety protocols. Mustapha Bayad, a union member, explained that previous requirements for specialized licenses when operating heavy machinery have been abandoned, placing inadequately trained workers in charge of towing 20-30 tonne equipment.
This protest action occurs against the backdrop of Swissport’s implementation of controversial surveillance technology in Sydney and Melbourne airports. Despite significant union opposition, the company has deployed cameras and audio sensing equipment in baggage handling vehicles capable of monitoring conversations between employees both inside and around the vehicles.