Qantas has announced plans to outsource hundreds of ground handling and call centre jobs to India from early 2027, in a move it says will save $80 million. Unions have slammed the decision as a “betrayal” and a safety risk, warning up to 850 roles could go. The announcement comes as the airline prepares for a busy summer travel period.
SYDNEY, 11 November 2026: Qantas has confirmed plans to outsource hundreds of ground handling and back-office jobs to India, prompting immediate concern from unions and Labor MPs who say it puts Australian workers and passenger safety at risk.
The airline told staff this week it would shift roles including customer service, baggage handling coordination and some call centre work to a third-party provider in Bengaluru from early 2027. Qantas says the move will save about $80 million a year and help keep fares down amid rising costs.
The Transport Workers Union and the Australian Services Union slammed the decision. TWU National Secretary Michael Kaine called it “a betrayal of loyal workers” and warned outsourcing had previously led to safety and service failures. “You cannot outsource safety,” he said. “This is about corporate greed, not efficiency.
“The ASU said up to 850 jobs could be affected across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane airports, with many long-term staff facing redundancy. It is seeking urgent meetings with Qantas and the Fair Work Commission.
Labor backbenchers have also voiced concern, with some calling for stricter rules on airline outsourcing. The government said it was “monitoring the situation closely” but noted Qantas is a private company.
Qantas defended the plan, saying no frontline pilots or engineers would be affected and that the India-based provider meets all CASA and international safety standards. A spokesperson said the airline remains “committed to Australia” and will offer redeployment where possible.
The announcement comes as Qantas prepares for peak summer travel, with unions threatening industrial action if job guarantees are not given.
Note – AI help taken in the text report & graphic.
