Representing thousands of aircraft baggage handlers, freight handlers, caterers, drivers, flight attendants, pilots, cleaners, security screeners and work safety officers at Australia’s second busiest airport, the TWU highlights the inadequate public transport options, with only four bus routes serving over 18,000 workers and 84,000 customers daily.

Melbourne Airport generated A$76 million in parking revenue last financial year, surpassing the A$56.3 million from the busier Sydney Airport, which has an easily-accessible airport rail link.

Mem Suleyman, TWU branch secretary said: “Airline workers don’t care whether the station is above the ground or underground. They just want a station that gives them the same option as every other airline worker at major airports in Australia. 

“Melbourne Airport charges airline workers and customers over A$12 a day to park up to 30 minutes away from the terminal, and as much as A$79 a day for closer parking. The TWU is tired of the excuses and urges Melbourne Airport and the Victorian government to get out of first gear and get on with delivering this project.

“We also need to see the Federal government play a positive role in delivering this project. They should look at mature ways to help navigate the dispute.

The TWU will be holding an emergency forum to give local politicians the chance to hear first hand from airline workers including those living in their electorates about the urgent need to step up and deliver an airport rail link," said Suleyman. 

 
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