Media | State News

Media Statement: Labor failing to protect jobs of Virgin’s Queensland workforce

12th August 2020

The Palaszczuk Labor Government is failing to protect Queensland workers from losing their jobs at Virgin Australia.

LNP Deputy Leader and Shadow Treasurer Tim Mander said the Palaszczuk Labor Government used $200m of taxpayers’ money to buy a stake in the airline, but reports today revealed up to 400 of roles could be cut in Virgin’s Brisbane operation.

“I feel for the hundreds of Queensland workers and their families who have been told they could be losing their jobs,” Mr Mander said.

“As a part-owner of Virgin Australia, the Palaszczuk Labor Government had a responsibility to ensure no Queenslander lost their job.

“Annastacia Palaszczuk made a decision to risk $200 million of taxpayers’ money when the Labor government didn’t need to.

“The loss of up 400 jobs in Queensland would mean Labor’s investment was not worth it.

“It defies belief Queensland taxpayers’ money could be used to pay the redundancy payouts for sacked Virgin Australia workers in Queensland.

“The LNP has always supported a second airline to protect Queensland jobs and deliver regional services.”