ASU NEWS RELEASE
File: 22.3 Australian Services Union
& 76.420 18 February, 2000
Ansett Jobs to fly across Tasman says Union
Today's announcement by News Limited that it is to sell its 50% share in Ansett Australia to Air New Zealand will
inevitably mean significant Australian job losses according to the largest Australian Airline's Union, the Australian
Services Union.
"While in some corporate board rooms today's announcement will be greeted with joy, the ASU has real concerns that this
buyout by Air New Zealand will result in many thousands of jobs going offshore to New Zealand", said Linda White -
Assistant National Secretary of the Australian Services Union.
"While we acknowledge there are likely economies from this sale, we want to see jobs remain in Australia - our economic
ties with New Zealand should not allow companies to shift high value, skilled jobs across the Tasman."
The ASU believes that up to 2000 jobs in administration, finance, IT and engineering in Ansett will leave Australia for
New Zealand. These jobs are primarily in Melbourne - Ansett's current headquarters. The multiplier effects through
contractors and suppliers could see up to 5000 jobs Australia wide effected.
"We are calling on the Federal Government to closely review the buyout proposal and secure from Air New Zealand a
guarantee of jobs in Australia. The Government can play a significant role and we are asking them to act quickly and
decisively on behalf of Australians."
Linda White said; "All the employees are asking is that the same conditions for last years failed Singapore Airlines bid
to buy Ansett, apply to Air New Zealand's proposal. These are:
(1) The maintenance of the Corporate Headquarters in Australia &
(2) The guaranteed growth of Ansett's International Operations rather than those of Air New Zealand."
"We call upon the Australian Government to save Australian jobs - its time for our leaders to stand up for young
Australian's to secure their right to work in this important industry".
Shortly the ASU will announce a public campaign to support the continuation of Australian Airline industry jobs.
For further comment, please contact:
Linda White, ASU Assistant National Secretary
on 03 9342 1400 [&/or 0419 507 809]