October 1, 2026 — Jetstar (JQ) airport staff in Australia will start a second round of industrial action on Friday, October 2, just as the NRL Grand Final long weekend and school holidays push travel demand up.
What happened
The Australian Services Union (ASU), which represents the Jetstar workers, says talks have stalled and staff have rejected the airline’s pay offer. ASU Assistant National Secretary Scott Cowen said members were left with no alternative.
The action follows a first round on September 23–24. It includes one-hour walkouts, and staff will also stop some non-essential duties, including making passenger announcements and collecting baggage fees.
Where and when
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Start date | October 2, 2026 |
| End date | TBA |
| Airports | Cairns, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne (Tullamarine and Avalon), Adelaide |
| Walkout times | One-hour stoppages; exact times TBA |
| Union demand | Raises that keep up with inflation running above 3% |
| Jetstar offer | 2.1% now, another 3% in April 2027, back pay to April 2026, revised classifications for experienced staff |
Jetstar called the decision “very disappointing” and said it has contingency plans to limit disruption.
What it means for non-revs
- Avoid tight Jetstar standby plans this weekend. Loads are already high for the Grand Final long weekend and school holidays. Short walkouts can cause delays and missed connections, which push revenue passengers onto later flights.
- Allow extra time at the airport at the seven listed airports, and check the flight status before you leave home.
- Have a backup. If you hold Qantas Group staff travel or interline access, line up an alternative on another carrier for any must-travel day.
- More action is possible. This is the second round, and no deal is in sight. Keep an eye on ASU and Jetstar updates before booking later trips.
Sources
- Redland City Bulletin (ACM) — Jetstar staff declare strike action ahead of Grand Final weekend
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