In a recent development, Justice Michael Lee has publicly criticized the law firm representing the Transport Workers Union (TWU) in the case against Qantas for illegally outsourcing over 1,800 ground handling jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Justice Lee's remarks focus on the law firm's handling of compensation negotiations and their approach to the case, suggesting that their actions may have prolonged the legal proceedings and affected the timely compensation of the affected workers.
Background: In August 2025, the Federal Court imposed a $90 million penalty on Qantas for unlawfully outsourcing ground handling roles, marking one of the largest penalties in Australian industrial relations history. The court also mandated compensation for the affected workers, with the TWU representing their interests. However, the compensation process has faced delays, leading to criticism from Justice Lee regarding the law firm's conduct.
Key Points:
- Justice Lee criticized the law firm's handling of compensation negotiations in the Qantas case.
- The TWU represents over 1,800 workers affected by Qantas's illegal outsourcing.
- The compensation process has experienced delays, impacting the affected workers.
- The law firm's actions have been scrutinized for potentially prolonging the legal proceedings.
Background History: The case against Qantas began in 2020 when the airline decided to outsource its ground handling workforce, leading to the dismissal of over 1,800 employees. The TWU challenged this decision, arguing it was unlawful. In August 2025, the Federal Court ruled in favor of the TWU, imposing a $90 million penalty on Qantas and ordering compensation for the affected workers. The compensation process has been ongoing, with recent criticisms directed at the law firm's handling of the case.