Airport strike could cause flight delays for Aussies
24-hour stoppage planned this week.
Aussies heading overseas between 11-13 August are being urged to get to the airport early, as planned industrial strikes may potentially cause delays.
The Department of Immigration and Border Protection issued a warning to all Australians with international travel plans over the next three days, following advice that some employees, including Australian Border Force (ABF) officials, will be taking part in a 24-hour stoppage at international airports on Friday 12 August.
Given the way shifts are arranged, the upcoming industrial action may affect some late flights on Thursday evening (11/08) and early services Saturday morning (13/08).
ABF strategic border command assistant commissioner Clive Murray said preparations are being made to minimise the impact the strikes will have on travelling passengers.
Planned stoppages will take place at Perth International Airport between 9:15 pm to midnight on 11 August, across the entire country between midnight 12 August and midnight 13 August, at Brisbane International Airport from midnight to 4:30am and at Cairns International Airport between midnight and 12.30am on 13 August.
"If you are going overseas or returning to Australia on these dates, we advise you to arrive at the airport early," he said.
"SmartGate technology will remain available at all eight major international airports and fully trained staff will be on hand to ensure all airport functions are running as efficiently as possible," he said.
"The safety and security of the public and our staff remains our highest priority."
Enterprise agreement negotiations are expected to be re-commenced soon.
If you're concerned about potential flight delays or are wondering how these strikes may affect your travel plans, you can visit the Department's website, as well as its Facebook and Twitter feeds for regular updates.
Want travel insurance that covers strikes? Find out when and which Australian insurers will and won't pay claims for flight delays due to strike action.
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