More importantly, Qantas has been criminally convicted for this offence, making it the first company in Australian history to be criminally convicted for targeting an HSR — a huge win for health and safety reps everywhere.
WHY THIS IS A WIN FOR WORKERS
A trained and elected HSR, Theo bravely stood up to the biggest corporate bully in Australia – and won.
Qantas illegally stood down Theo when he directed workers to cease unsafe work, an important right HSRs have under the WHS Act.
This first-of-its-kind criminal conviction is another jewel in the crown of Qantas’ list of violations of workplace laws, including the largest case of illegal sackings in Australian history.
While Theo defended his co-workers’ rights to a safe workplace, Qantas showed their utter disregard for the Work Health and Safety Act.
This landmark conviction is a massive victory for workers everywhere and sends a powerful message to companies across all industries: union members will stand up for each other and their rights.
WHAT HAPPEN’S NOW?
· Next week, Qantas will be back in court for compensation hearings for the 1700 illegally sacked workers.
· Theo’s story is an important lesson to employers – nothing is more important than workplace safety. If you’re interested in keeping your fellow colleagues safe by becoming a HSR, contact your delegate, organiser or state branch for more info on ways to get involved.
Congratulations to Theo and to every single member for standing together to defend their rights.