QANTAS DESERT GOLD COAST EMPLOYEES

As of 2pm today, up to 40 ground handling and front counter staff at Qantas have lost their jobs.

Jetstar, a subsidiary of Qantas have given their Coolangatta work to another company, known for their non-union labour hire.

TWU Branch Secretary Hughie Williams says, "This is disgusting. Qantas is a million dollar company who are only concerned about making a greater profit."

Mr Williams says, "What happened to Australia's Airline who looked after workers and their families?"

Mr Williams says, "A great percentage of these workers will walk away with no-redundancy payout."